For the roughly one million Americans living with Crohn's disease, even simple, enjoyable activities, like family outings and social gatherings, can pose significant challenges. While there’s no cure for Crohn’s, there are some simple strategies that can make living with the disease easier and less stressful.
As a leading provider of Crohn’s disease treatment, Digestive Disease Specialists in Moline, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa, uses an individualized approach to care that focuses on helping each patient lead a healthier, more comfortable, and satisfying life.
In this post, our team offers five practical things you can do to improve your life while navigating the challenges of managing your Crohn’s disease symptoms.
Big meals can overwhelm your digestive system and trigger bloating, cramps, and other Crohn’s disease symptoms. On the other hand, eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day balances your digestive system activity and reduces stress on your intestines.
Ideally, aim for 5-6 small meals each day instead of 3 large ones. This approach can also help you maintain steady energy levels and ward off sluggishness that can lead to more symptoms and added anxiety.
Digestion uses a lot of water, so staying hydrated throughout the day is a good way to maintain optimal digestive health. Drinking plenty of water also helps reduce bloating and diarrhea, common symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease flare-ups.
Carrying a water bottle with you at all times is a great way to make sure you sip regularly. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try adding some fruit or cucumber chunks for flavor. Avoid sugary drinks, energy or sports drinks, and caffeine, all of which could worsen your symptoms.
Addressing your stress might seem like a tall order, but it’s an important part of managing Crohn’s disease symptoms (and improving your health in lots of other ways). Meditation and yoga are great ways to balance stress, but they’re not the only options.
Many people find they can manage stress by incorporating simple stress-busting activities into their routine. Breathing exercises are a great way to lower stress and can be done anywhere. Engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading or listening to music, can also help. Find something that works for you and stick with it.
Fatigue is a common symptom of Crohn’s disease, especially during flare-ups. Getting enough rest allows your body a chance to heal while also reducing underlying inflammation that can lead to more serious damage.
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and don’t be afraid to rest or nap during the day. Take frequent breaks at work and pace your activities to avoid becoming overly tired. Trouble sleeping? You’re not alone. Try these simple tips to improve your sleep routine.
Exercise can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, relieve stress, and boost your mood. But since Crohn’s can bring on fatigue for many people, it’s important not to overdo it.
Opt for low-impact aerobic activities, like walking, swimming, or stretching, to maximize benefits without overexerting yourself. Always listen to your body and be ready to rest based on your symptoms and overall energy level.
If you start to experience cramps or bloating, stop right away and give your body the time it needs to rest and recover.
There may not be a cure for Crohn’s disease (yet), but there are ways to manage its symptoms so you can lead a more comfortable, active life on your own terms. Our team is ready to work with you to find the solutions that fit your needs, symptoms, and lifestyle.
To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Digestive Disease Specialists today.
