Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around the frequency of emptying an ileostomy pouch, particularly in the context of someone with short bowel syndrome who is also on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN). The original poster, Janice, expresses concern about the frequency of emptying the pouch, noting that it is very active during certain times of the day and questions whether her frequent emptying routine is normal or excessive. She mentions the physical exhaustion from spending a significant portion of her day managing her ileostomy.

Advice and Helpful Insights:
1. Bag Size and Management:
- Consider using a larger bag to reduce the frequency of emptying. A larger bag can be rolled up to fit comfortably and discreetly, potentially easing the strain on the seal and reducing the risk of leaks.
- Ensure the flange and bag fit well to allow the bag to get relatively full without issues, which might help in reducing the frequency of emptying.

2. Dietary Adjustments:
- Eating starchy foods can help thicken the output, which might make management easier and reduce the frequency of emptying.

3. Product Recommendations:
- Explore products that can be added to the ileostomy bag to thicken the output, making it easier to manage and potentially reducing the need for frequent emptying.

4. Emotional Support and Community Engagement:
- Engaging with support groups and forums can provide emotional support and practical advice, helping to manage the psychological impact of living with an ileostomy.

5. Medical Consultation and Future Plans:
- Continuous medical consultation is crucial, especially considering potential future medical procedures like bowel reversals or transplants that might impact ileostomy management.

6. Personal Experience and Encouragement:
- Other forum members share their experiences with similar challenges, offering encouragement and affirming that adjustment periods can lead to improvement in managing the ileostomy and overall quality of life.