This topic is about finding safe and effective ways to lose weight after having an ileostomy and undergoing multiple abdominal surgeries. The person sharing their experience is 64 years old and has had several surgeries, including an ileostomy, which has affected their weight and ability to exercise. They are looking for advice on exercises that are safe for them, whether a personal trainer could be beneficial, and if non-surgical fat-reduction methods are suitable given their medical history.

Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

1. Consider a low-carb or Atkins diet. This high-protein approach is generally stoma-friendly and can be easy to maintain with strong willpower.

2. Practice portion control and keep a strict track of your calorie intake, including all beverages. Weight gain usually means consuming more calories than you burn.

3. Engage in brisk walking, aiming for 3 to 4 miles in about 40 minutes each day. Treat it as a cardio workout rather than a casual stroll.
- Remember to stretch before walking to prevent shin splints.
- Use stairs whenever possible to increase your daily activity.

4. Try home workouts like Leslie Sansone's "Walk at Home" videos. These combine low-impact walking with light weight training, which is gentle on the abdomen but still effective.

5. Increase your overall movement and activity intensity to create a calorie deficit. Fast-paced activities can be beneficial even if you need to avoid heavy lifting.

6. Reflect on any mindset or emotional factors that might affect your eating habits and activity levels. Addressing these can help support long-term success in your weight-loss journey.