Coping with Crohn’s disease

Dear Donovan,

I have Crohn’s disease and I’m being treated for it with medication. How can I adjust my diet to ease the adverse effects of this condition?

Crohn’s disease is an example of an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It may affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. Crohn’s disease can lead to inflammation of the digestive tract, which usually results in abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, weight loss and malnutrition. It should be noted that Crohn’s disease can affect different parts of the digestive tract in different people.

In addition, bowel obstruction may occur commonly with this disease, and those suffering from it are at greater risk of bowel cancer. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease often spreads into the deeper tissues of the digestive system, causing extreme pain. Crohn’s disease may also lead to life-threatening complications. It has been shown that Crohn’s disease is caused by immune and bacterial factors. However, it has also been shown that some people are more genetically susceptible to this disease.

The exact cause of Crohn’s disease remains unknown, and there is no medication or surgical operation that will cure it. However, the major treatment options usually help with symptom reduction, remission, and preventing relapse. Treatment options include certain anti-inflammatory drugs and nutrition therapy.

Many diets have been proposed for the management of Crohn’s disease, and several of these diets have helped to reduce symptoms of the disease. The main function of these diets is to reduce acidity of the gut, to promote healing, and to control certain organisms — for example, bacteria. It is very important to eat more alkaline types of food, and smaller meals should be taken more frequently over the course of the day.

People with Crohn’s disease should consume more fresh fruits (without the skin), vegetables, vegetable juices, eg green juice, almond milk, papaya, avocado, vegetable soups, fish oil, and vegetable salads. It is important to avoid fried, spicy foods, dairy products, nuts, and foods with a high sugar content. Drink plenty of water, and avoid smoking.

We will answer your weight-related questions

Are you struggling to lose weight, or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.