All throughout my undergraduate years I recall feeling drowsy, frequently sleepy and weak in my stomach. I would nap constantly during the daytime and my energy levels were unpredictable at best. At some point I began to develop sporadic, sharp shooting paints in my lower intestinal tract.
Fast forward: I was diagnosed with Crohn's about a year ago. A very mild form requring little medication, but the disease is certainly a presence in my life. I have never suffered from debillitating pain in any way, but these days I am fairly conscious of what I eat and how it affects me. Dairy, for example, or excessive red meats or sugar can slow me down tremendously. Wheats, grains (gluten?), too, can cause the onset of my old symptoms: fatigue, drowsiness, etc.
I really dislike this illness. One day I'm young and invincible, the next day I'm a lazy, sad cat. I'm grateful, however, that it hasn't progressed to the point of serious pain, complication, or even surgery - and I'd certainly like to keep it that way. I thought I might ask, then, how those of you who live with Crohn's - whether mild or severe - have coped with, bettered, or even defeated it. What dietary, exercise, mental, etc. changes have worked for you? I'd even like to hear from those who may not have Crohn's, but who have a fair knowledge of diet, nutrition, etc. for those with auto-immune issues.
I wish I could meet Crohn's in a dark alley...
Fast forward: I was diagnosed with Crohn's about a year ago. A very mild form requring little medication, but the disease is certainly a presence in my life. I have never suffered from debillitating pain in any way, but these days I am fairly conscious of what I eat and how it affects me. Dairy, for example, or excessive red meats or sugar can slow me down tremendously. Wheats, grains (gluten?), too, can cause the onset of my old symptoms: fatigue, drowsiness, etc.
I really dislike this illness. One day I'm young and invincible, the next day I'm a lazy, sad cat. I'm grateful, however, that it hasn't progressed to the point of serious pain, complication, or even surgery - and I'd certainly like to keep it that way. I thought I might ask, then, how those of you who live with Crohn's - whether mild or severe - have coped with, bettered, or even defeated it. What dietary, exercise, mental, etc. changes have worked for you? I'd even like to hear from those who may not have Crohn's, but who have a fair knowledge of diet, nutrition, etc. for those with auto-immune issues.
I wish I could meet Crohn's in a dark alley...
. Glad you've got the mild version.
