This topic is about someone who recently had colostomy surgery and is looking for advice on how to gain weight. They are feeling insecure about their weight loss and are seeking suggestions to help regain their weight and confidence. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Be patient with your body. It can take several weeks or even months for your body to start absorbing nutrients normally after major abdominal surgery.

2. Consider adding a can of Ensure or Boost with every meal. These are often recommended by hospital dietitians to increase calorie and protein intake.

3. Focus on calorie-dense foods. Incorporate more meat, pasta, potatoes, bread, and other carbohydrates into your diet. You can also add cereals, fruits, and juices as you can tolerate them.

4. Try commercial weight-gain powders or bars. These can provide an additional 500 to 1,000+ calories each, which can be helpful if your appetite is low.

5. If fruits and vegetables cause gas, consider using Beano before eating them. Reintroduce these foods slowly to avoid any blockages or discomfort.

6. Practice patience and self-acceptance. Some people never regain their pre-surgery weight but learn to embrace their new selves.

7. For odor control, try using baking soda in your pouch or bathroom sprays like Poo-Pourri to reduce smells when emptying or changing the bag.

8. If you're experiencing appliance leaks or blow-outs, consult an ostomy nurse. They can help you find a different wafer or pouch system that might adhere better to a smaller torso.

9. Explore online resources. Websites like YouTube have ostomy-care videos that can offer practical tips and encouragement.