Adjusting to solid foods after ostomy surgery can be a bit daunting, especially when you're just starting to move beyond the comfort of soups and soft foods. If you're in this phase, you're not alone, and there are some helpful tips and insights to make this transition smoother.

- Many people are advised to stick with soft and low-fiber foods for about four weeks after surgery. After that, you can start introducing new foods gradually.

- Protein is crucial for healing, so consider incorporating eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, chicken, meat sauce, and protein shakes like Premier Protein, Boost, or Ensure into your diet. These can help with tissue repair.

- A common piece of advice is to eat small portions, chew your food very well, and stay hydrated.

- When you're ready to try new foods, start with easy-to-digest options like baked potatoes without the skin, pasta, steamed or very soft vegetables, applesauce, yogurt, and oat milk.

- Nutrition shakes can help fill any nutritional gaps. It's a good idea to try different brands, as they can affect your output differently. Some people find Boost more tolerable than Ensure, while others enjoy the variety of flavors offered by Premier Protein.

- If you have a colostomy, your diet might return to normal within a few weeks once the swelling goes down. For those with an ileostomy, it's important to be cautious with high-fiber foods like skins, seeds, nuts, corn, peas, celery, kale, pineapple, and popcorn. Some people can tolerate these foods, while others cannot, so keeping a food journal can be very helpful.

- A detailed food journal can help you identify any problem foods and keep track of your nutrition. Introduce only one new food at a time and in small amounts. If it agrees with you, you can gradually increase the portion.

- Be cautious with carbonated sodas like Coke, as they can create excess gas and cause bloating. If odor is a concern, a pouch deodorant can help, but be aware that foods like garlic and onion may increase smells.

- Trust your body and go at your own pace. Your cravings and comfort levels are good guides. Over time, most people with an ileostomy find they can eat a wide variety of foods. Experimentation and thorough chewing can help prevent blockages.

- Some people enjoy adding protein shake flavors like caramel, strawberry, and chocolate to their diet. A friend even uses a caramel shake as a coffee creamer substitute.

- Fish is generally well-tolerated, and one person mentioned eating it three times a week. It's worth experimenting to find the varieties you prefer.

- To prevent obstruction, avoid whole potato skins and very fibrous vegetables early on.