When you have just received an ileostomy, figuring out what foods to eat or avoid can be a bit overwhelming. Here are some friendly tips and advice to help you navigate your new dietary needs while you heal and adjust.

1. Start-up resources:
- You can find printable food cards and longer lists online for free. These can be a handy reference.
- Your stoma nurse or surgeon can provide personalized diet sheets tailored to your needs.
- Keeping a food diary is a great way to track what works for you. Introduce only one new food item at a time to see how your body reacts.

2. General early-stage rules (first 4-6 weeks):
- Chew your food thoroughly. If you can't cut it with the side of a fork, it's best to avoid it for now.
- Opt for low-fiber, soft foods like fish, chicken, minced meat, pasta, mashed potatoes, eggs, white bread, peeled fruits, and cooked vegetables.
- Eat small, regular meals and drink water after each meal to stay hydrated.

3. Foods to delay or limit, especially at the beginning:
- Avoid foods high in insoluble fiber such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, bran, raw celery, pineapple, avocado, sweet corn, mushrooms, coconut, apple and cucumber skins, pepper or tomato skins, and tough cuts of steak.
- Be cautious with very fatty fried foods and most fast foods, as they can thicken output or cause leaks.
- Fizzy drinks, energy drinks, chewing gum, and large amounts of caffeine can create excess gas.
- Vinegar-heavy dressings or sauces might erode the wafer or barrier for some people.

4. After healing (several months):
- Many people with an ileostomy gradually reintroduce almost every food, including popcorn, lobster, shellfish, pizza, and Chinese or Mongolian BBQ. Start with small amounts and drink extra water or sports drinks.
- Air-popped popcorn and soft nuts in tiny portions can be okay for some, as long as you drink plenty of fluids.
- Juicing raw fruits and vegetables allows you to enjoy their nutrients without the bulky fiber.

5. Managing problem episodes:
- If your output slows or thickens, apple juice or other clear juices can help.
- To avoid gas or overnight ballooning, steer clear of late-night milk, ice cream, gravy, or other creamy items.
- Over-the-counter vitamins might pass through intact; taking them with an acidic drink like orange juice can improve absorption.

6. Hydration and nutrition tips:
- With an ileostomy, you lose more fluid and electrolytes, so it's important to drink plenty of water and/or isotonic sports drinks daily.
- Foods like real butter, whole or 2% milk, eggs, and meat can help maintain your weight once you can tolerate them.

7. Special observations from long-term wearers (20–40 years):
- One veteran found that only fresh coconut caused a full blockage; otherwise, almost anything is possible with caution.
- Leakage around the seal often coincides with foods containing tiny seeds, like raspberries and strawberries.

8. Can I eat Chinese food?
- Many people report enjoying Chinese food and Mongolian BBQ without any trouble. As always, try a small portion first, chew well, and be mindful of excess oil or high-fiber vegetables.