eating peanuts

Many people caution about peanuts, but I can eat them with no problem as long as I chew well and drink plenty of liquids. I also don't overdo -- that seems to be the secret about everything; it is easy to overeat with an ileostomy and be very uncomfortable! Eat smaller quantities and chew well. That said, we all have something that bothers us (with me it's mushrooms and certain raw vegetables that I just can't eat!), so try things slowly a little a time to see what works for you. We are all different.

I eat nuts quite often, but there are a few things you can try if you've had difficulties with them:

- soaking. Some nuts, like almonds, are perfect for soaking in water overnight. It makes them plump and much easier to chew.
- nut/seed butter. If you can't have whole nuts or seeds, try a smooth buttered version.
- chew. this one should be obvious, but if you notice any nut pieces in your bag, then you aren't chewing well enough!
- try different nuts/seeds. Some people might find that certain nuts or seeds digest better than others.
- don't go crazy! I use to eat nuts about a cup at a time, but with my ileostomy, I have about a handful and I'm good.