This topic is about managing fluid intake and output for someone with an ileostomy who is using Modulen supplement shakes. The person has recently transitioned from a liquid diet back to solid foods, with half of their calories still coming from Modulen shakes. Here's a breakdown of their current routine and some helpful advice:
- They consume about 1,750 ml of fluids daily from hospital-supplied drinks, along with four small solid meals.
- Their output is around 700–800 ml over 24 hours, which is looser than before.
- They are curious about the output experiences of other people with ostomies.
Additional details include:
- The person has an ileostomy.
- The liquid diet was initially used to calm small-bowel inflammation, and Modulen has been beneficial in improving their weight.
- Their total daily fluid intake is approximately 2,000 ml, which includes 750 ml of Modulen shakes, 750 ml of chamomile tea, and 500 ml of water, some of which is consumed during nighttime bathroom trips.
Here are some insights and advice for managing fluid intake and output:
1. Typical ileostomy output:
- An output of 700–800 ml over 24 hours is within a healthy range, with many people averaging around 1,000 ml.
- It's advisable to keep output below about 1,200 ml per day to reduce the risk of dehydration.
2. Expect looser and higher-volume output when consuming a large portion of calories in liquid form or when the bowel is resting. This is normal for ileostomies.
3. Hydration guidelines:
- Aim for about 2 liters of fluid daily, including plain water and other drinks. Solid foods also contribute to your water intake.
- Monitor for excessive liquid loss to protect kidney function. Draining the pouch frequently, such as 10 times a day, can be normal if you are well-hydrated.
4. Thickening strategies:
- Incorporate "thickening" foods into your diet, such as potatoes, pasta, rice, bread, pretzels, cookies, and marshmallows. Eating three pieces of marshmallows 30–45 minutes before a pouch change can help reduce output.
5. Measuring output:
- Hospitals often provide measuring cups, but many people with ostomies learn to estimate volume over time.
- Focus on trends, such as output being too thin or too large in volume, rather than exact numbers once you become comfortable.
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