The topic at hand is about experiencing constant hunger after having a new loop ileostomy. This is a common concern for those who have recently undergone this procedure. Here are some helpful insights and advice to manage this situation:
1. Feeling hungry every 3 to 4 hours is quite normal after a loop ileostomy. This happens because the bowel's transit time is shorter, meaning nutrients pass through your system more quickly, prompting your body to ask for food more often.
2. Try eating smaller, more frequent meals or snacks, aiming for at least five times a day. Avoid going longer than four hours without eating, as this can lead to discomfort like wind, gurgling, fatigue, or feeling unwell.
3. Keep portable food and fluids with you at all times. Many people find it helpful to carry a "snack kit" in a purse or bag, along with a water bottle, so they are never caught without something to eat.
4. Consider using nutritional drinks to fill in the gaps without needing large meals. Some options include:
- Ensure by Abbott Nutrition
- EAS "AdvantEdge" Carb Control shake by Abbott Nutrition, which has 14 grams of protein and 100 calories
- Meal-replacement shakes or smoothies you can make at home
5. Staying hydrated and replacing electrolytes is crucial because ileostomies can lead to a loss of salt and minerals. Some options for hydration include:
- Gatorade or other sports/electrolyte drinks
- Coconut water (preferably not from concentrate) for natural electrolytes with very low calories
- Smart Water, which is electrolyte-enhanced bottled water
- Vitamin Water or inexpensive electrolyte waters available at dollar stores, which have a plain taste without colors or flavors
- Homemade "St Marks Solution" (you can search online for the recipe), which is specifically recommended for those with ileostomies
- Dioralyte sachets, an oral rehydration powder that some people get by prescription and add two sachets to each sports drink
6. To minimize the need to empty your pouch at night, try to stop eating about four hours before bedtime and rely on fluids only after that.
7. Including some salty, crunchy snacks in your diet can help replace sodium lost in output and satisfy hunger without adding too much bulk.
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