Crohn’s disease is a personal, often embarrassing topic to bring up with friends and family, but left untreated could have devastating results. Characterized by inflammation of the small intestine, symptoms of Crohn’s include malnutrition, diarrhea, indigestion, ulcers, stomach cramps and loss of appetite. Early diagnosis and proper diet can go a long way towards alleviating most of these symptoms.
- Include lean proteins such as chicken and fish.
- Avoid iron deficiency by pairing up iron-rich foods with vitamin C for increased absorption. For example, fry up some tofu cubes with broccoli, or just remember to have an orange alongside a bowl of iron-fortified breakfast cereal.
- Stick to a low fiber diet. Avoid foods such as corn or nuts which are more difficult to digest completely and may trigger constipation.
- Consume plenty of fluids, particularly drinks which are high in electrolytes.
- Visit your doctor. In some cases an antibiotic such as rifaximin is all that is needed to begin the healing process.
- Your physician might prescribe steroids, so know your facts before the office visit.
- Many extol the wonders of coconut oil in easing stomach cramps and diarrhea associated with Crohn’s disease.
Don’t ignore the symptoms and think they will go away on their own. If you think you have Crohn’s, seek professional help immediately.