This topic is about dealing with a new and unpleasant odor issue that has arisen for someone with a permanent ileostomy. After starting a new supplement, Jigsaw Complete, which contains fish oil, and incorporating daily vegetable and fruit smoothies, the person noticed a strong, fish-like smell coming from their ostomy bag and barrier. This odor even permeates clothing within a day and a half. Despite using odor control products like M9 drops, Bodymint tablets, and Devrom chewables, the problem persists. The person is seeking advice from others before reaching out to the product manufacturers.
Here are some helpful insights and advice from the community:
1. The fish oil in Jigsaw Complete is likely causing the odor. Many people have experienced a similar "salmon" smell when taking fish oil supplements or eating salmon. Stopping the fish oil often resolves the issue.
2. Try a short elimination trial to identify the cause of the odor. First, stop the smoothies, and if the odor persists, discontinue the Jigsaw Complete supplements. This can help determine which component is responsible before making any permanent changes.
3. Check if your ostomy pouch has an integrated filter. Filters can sometimes allow odors or liquids to escape. People with ileostomies often switch to non-filtered bags or seal the filter to prevent this.
4. If you prefer to keep using filtered pouches, you can cover the filter completely with packaging tape or use the provided filter stickers to block odors and prevent leaks.
5. If M9 drops are no longer effective while taking fish oil, other deodorants are unlikely to work until the fish oil is removed from your routine.
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