This topic is all about finding the right protein sources and recipes for someone who has recently undergone ileostomy surgery. Nine weeks post-surgery, the person is doing well with carbohydrates and is now looking to incorporate protein into their diet without gaining unwanted weight. Here are some helpful tips and advice for adding protein in a gentle way:

- Introduce new foods slowly, one at a time. Chew your food thoroughly and drink plenty of fluids to help it pass through the ileostomy smoothly.

- Opt for well-cooked, soft, and easy-to-digest proteins, which are generally well-tolerated:
1. Eggs (though they might cause some odor in the pouch).
2. Fish (also may increase odor; consider using in-pouch deodorants if needed).
3. Yogurt.
4. Protein shakes or drinks, such as Special K Protein or other commercial options recommended by home-care nurses.

- Keep track of your actual protein intake. Most people already consume enough protein, and having too much doesn't provide extra benefits.

- If you're using protein shakes, they can temporarily replace solid foods while your gut is adjusting.

- Some soft-food stage protein/carbohydrate combinations that others have found tolerable include:
1. Cloud Bread, which is egg-based and zero-carb. You can find a recipe here: http://www.food.com/recipe/carb-free-cloud-bread-411501
2. Various gluten-free breads that are higher in protein and lower in refined carbs.

- General tips for food tolerance:
1. Cook vegetables thoroughly. While raw salad might be okay, avoid raw carrots, raw cabbage, tough skins, pineapple, casings, gristly meats, and large quantities of nuts or corn until you know you can tolerate them.
2. Balance higher-fiber foods with starchy carbs like rice, potatoes, or bread to prevent slow-downs or watery output.
3. If a food seems risky, such as nuts or high-fiber fruit, drink extra fluids to help it pass through.
4. Use odor control drops or sachets in the pouch to counter smells from eggs, fish, or other protein foods.

- For managing weight:
1. Replace refined "white" carbs with whole-grain or gluten-free alternatives if you can tolerate them. Some people have lost weight by doing this.
2. Limit fast food and focus on whole foods prepared at home.
3. One person maintains their weight by eating one main balanced meal a day (including meat, vegetables, and limited carbs) along with healthy snacks like granola, oatmeal, and juice, while avoiding sugary or processed foods.

- Be cautious with certain foods:
1. One person experienced a blockage after consuming large amounts of marshmallows to thicken output, so it's best to avoid or use them sparingly.

- For more reliable information, you can refer to the Mayo Clinic's "Ileostomy Diet" page: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-blog/ileostomy-diet/bgp-20056239

Overall, the key is to introduce foods gradually, pay attention to how your body reacts, and adjust portion sizes and textures as needed. Over time, most people with an ileostomy can return to a varied and enjoyable diet.