Living With Crohns Disease Article

Crohn's Patients' Solutions

If you suffer from Crohn's or know someone who does, you understand that it can be a very debilitating disease. The small intestine becomes inflamed and the person has trouble digesting and processing food. Consequently, nutrients are not absorbed and the patient can suffer anemia and become malnourished. The disease can become very serious quickly - if there is a blockage in the intestine - this may cause a rupture and death if it is not treated.

It can also cause severe diarrhea and other complications. Physicians recommend that patients drink 8-10 glasses of water a day to prevent constipation and other complications. A daily multivitamin is recommended. Consult your physician regarding the proper dosage to take.

Physicians recommend that you eat a high fiber diet and cook vegetables rather than eating them raw. It is recommended that you avoid dairy products. Also small frequent meals are recommended rather than large meals which may be harder to digest. A high protein, lean diet such as fish, chicken and nutritional drinks are recommended to help with dehydration and a balanced diet.

It is suggested that you limit caffeine, alcohol and sugar substitutes such as nutrasweet as these aggravate the symptoms. Also, limit gaseous foods such as beans, nuts, seeds, corn, green vegetables, lentils, peppers and carbonated drinks. It is also recommended that you reduce the amount of high fat foods which may cause diarrhea. These can cause cramping and may have difficulty being digested.

Consult your physician if you are having severe symptoms or they appear to be getting worse. Your physician may recommend a change in the course of treatment you are receiving.

Some nutritionists and physicians recommend limiting carbohydrates which can be difficult to process. Carbohydrates can be difficult to break down and may cause bloating and excess gas.

Everyone is different and the type of illness and symptoms you have may vary tremendously from other people. You may want to keep a food diary to track the foods that cause problems and eliminate those foods. If you keep track of these foods you will have a better sense of your disease and what aggravates it.

Keep in mind that there is no cure for this disease. You can try to control it and make the best of it but, you will never be completely cured. It is in your best interest to do everything you can to prevent the symptoms from getting worse, if it does, you may need surgery.

Some people with Crohn's prefer liquid meals on occasion. They are easily digested and carry a wealth of nutrients. They certainly do not cause extra stress on the digestive system. You can find pre-mixed and powdered versions that you can mix yourself.