Gaining weight with an ileostomy or stoma can be a unique challenge, but with the right approach, it is definitely achievable. Here are some practical tips and advice shared by others who have been in similar situations:

1. High-calorie nutrition supplements:
- Consider using Boost Original shakes, which offer 240 calories and 10 grams of protein per bottle.
- Try Ensure shakes after meals to add extra calories.
- Complan was recommended twice a day post-surgery to help rebuild weight.
- "Serious Mass" weight-gainer powder, available at Walmart, provides about 1,300 calories per shake. Some have switched to a gentler pea-protein powder from Nuts.com for a more comfortable option.

2. Energy-dense foods and add-ins:
- Add heavy whipping cream to coffee, cereal, mac & cheese, smoothies, or shakes for extra calories.
- Use ghee, a type of clarified butter, generously on toast with every meal.
- Snack frequently on items like crisps/chips, chocolate, cakes, pies, full-fat milk, and cream cheese.
- Enjoy root-beer floats, even two a day, for additional calories and fluids.
- Blend ice cream with nut butters for a calorie boost of over 500; if peanut butter is problematic, try other nut butters.

3. Healthy fat sources:
- Avocados are a great option: add slices to sandwiches, blend into smoothies, make guacamole, or try an avocado-and-strawberry salad. The salad recipe includes strawberries, cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, basil, olive oil, balsamic reduction, toasted sesame seeds or pecans, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Meal-timing strategy:
- Instead of increasing portion sizes, eat more frequently. Aim for three main high-carb meals and several calorie-dense snacks throughout the day.

5. Digestive support:
- Over-the-counter digestive-enzyme supplements can help slow down transit time and improve nutrient absorption if food is passing too quickly.

6. Activity level:
- Temporarily reducing physical activity while increasing caloric intake helped one person gain 15 pounds in two months.

7. General guidance:
- Consult an ostomy-specific food guide to identify foods that are well-tolerated and unlikely to cause blockages.