This discussion revolves around an ostomate who has been dealing with unexpected blowouts, which are causing more frequent changes of the flange. The person has been drinking a lot of apple juice during the winter months and wonders if there might be a connection. A doctor suggested cutting out apple juice, but the person is skeptical since apple juice has been a regular part of their diet for five years without any issues. They are curious if other ostomates have experienced similar problems with juice.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. The blowouts always occurred at the 9 o’clock position on the wafer.
2. The pouch is typically emptied when it is about one-third full.
3. Switching to newer supplies from the person’s own stash immediately stopped the blowouts, indicating that the age or condition of the equipment, not apple juice, was the problem.
4. Past obstructions were due to a kink in the ileum, which was surgically corrected. Since then, the person can tolerate any food or drink.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Many long-term ostomates drink apple juice, orange juice, soda, coffee, tea, wine, and liquor without experiencing blowouts. Liquids alone rarely cause leaks.
2. Common triggers for blowouts include:
- Eating dense or bulky meals and then sitting for long periods, such as during movies or bus rides.
- Allowing the pouch to overfill or letting excess gas build up.
3. Apple juice and other fruit juices can cause diarrhea in some people, which might increase the risk of leaks. It's important to observe how your body reacts.
4. The condition of the equipment is often the real issue. Aging wafers or flanges, weakened adhesive, or seals compromised by wear can lead to problems. Using fresh supplies resolved the original poster’s issue.
5. Preventive practices include:
- Monitoring the seal hourly if the output is very liquid.
- Changing the appliance on a regular schedule rather than waiting for it to fail.
- Always emptying the pouch when it is one-third to one-half full to avoid putting pressure on the wafer.