11 foods to avoid with Crohn’s disease

11 foods to avoid with Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract, from the stomach to the anus. Although its primary cause is unknown, experts believe the condition may result from an autoimmune response. Crohn’s is treated with the help of various therapies, but patients are also advised to follow a healthy meal plan. This includes avoiding specific food categories that trigger inflammation and worsen Crohn’s flare-ups.

Whole grains
Whole grains are a generally healthy source of fiber and nutrients and a staple in many kitchens. However, they can worsen Crohn’s symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain and create a lot of unrest in the gastrointestinal tract. So, during a flare-up, one must avoid high-fiber whole grains like barley, popcorn, rye, and wheat. Instead, patients can turn to rice, rice pasta, potatoes, cornmeal, polenta, oatmeal, and gluten-free bread for their daily dose of carbs.

Beans
Beans are incredibly nutritious and an excellent vegetarian source of protein. However, they are also rich in insoluble fibers and are notorious for causing gas. Further, they contain lectin, a compound that can be hard to break down, causing inflammation and worsening one’s symptoms during a flare-up.

FODMAP fruits
Fruits high in short-chain carbohydrates like fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides, and polyols (together known as FODMAPs) have been reported to worsen the symptoms of Crohn’s, like diarrhea and bloating, during a flare-up. Some high-FODMAP fruits include watermelon, mango, apples, pears, figs, and avocados. One may avoid these and opt for fruits like cantaloupe, canned pears, or processed alternatives like applesauce. It is important to note that FODMAP fruits do not affect everyone with Crohn’s. Still, reducing their intake during a flare-up can ease symptoms. During remission, it is recommended to maintain a balanced intake of fruits to ensure the body receives the optimal amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

FODMAP vegetables
Like fruits, vegetables can be divided into low- and high-FODMAP categories. During a flare-up, individuals should avoid high-FODMAP vegetables, such as artichokes, onions, garlic, cauliflower, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and zucchini. Avoiding certain fiber-rich cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, is also advisable. Due to their high fiber content, these options are especially harmful when eaten raw or with the skin and seeds during a flare-up. While staying away from these, patients may opt for low-FODMAP vegetables, like spinach, squash, pumpkin, bell peppers, and potatoes.

Spices
Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining, worsening the symptoms during a flare-up. Hence, individuals should say no to spices like allspice, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, jalapenos, garlic, paprika, and wasabi. Instead, one can turn to gut-healthy spices and herbs like turmeric, ginger, chives, cumin, and mustard. According to certain research studies, the active ingredient of turmeric, curcumin, has been associated with reducing inflammation during Crohn’s flare-ups.

Nuts and seeds
Although a rich source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and minerals, the body finds it hard to break down and digest nuts and seeds. This can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, worsening the symptoms during a Crohn’s flare-up. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and sunflower seeds are a few nut and seed varieties to avoid to manage the condition better.

Caffeine
Research on the effects of caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee on Crohn’s disease has been inconclusive. However, a few studies indicate that caffeine can trigger a wave-like motion in the gastrointestinal tract, propelling waste through the digestive system. This can worsen diarrhea during a flare-up and also cause dehydration. Some people can handle caffeine in small amounts, such as a cup in the morning, but it is best to check with a doctor. A few experts recommend ensuring a one-to-one hydration ratio, where one drinks 8 to 12 oz. of water for every cup of coffee. Ideally, it is best to limit coffee intake during a flare-up or switch to decaffeinated drinks like herbal tea.

Artificial sweeteners
Non-caloric artificial sweeteners (NAC) can cause an imbalance in the bacterial levels in the stomach. This is also known as dysbiosis, and it can worsen Crohn’s symptoms like gas, bloating, and inflammation. Artificial sweeteners are commonly used in frozen desserts, yogurt, candies, baked goods, chewing gums, breakfast cereals, gelatins, and puddings.

Dairy products
Many with Crohn’s disease are also lactose intolerant. Lactose is a type of sugar commonly found in dairy products, which can be challenging to digest, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Avoiding dairy products like milk, butter, margarine, ice cream, sour cream, and cheese can help manage Crohn’s flare-ups better. If one is keen on consuming dairy products, they should opt for low-fat varieties and keep their intake to a bare minimum.

Saturated fats
Fried and greasy foods have a high cholesterol and fat content, which can worsen Crohn’s symptoms like cramping and diarrhea during a flare-up. Some everyday foods rich in saturated fats include sausages, butter, lard, cream, biscuits, and palm oil. Instead of these, patients can opt for foods rich in unsaturated fats (omega-3 fatty acids), such as salmon and sardines.

Red and processed meats
Red meats like beef, lamb, pork, veal, and bison and processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and sausages have also been associated with worsening this condition’s symptoms. While these meats may be easily available and seem delicious, they are among the worst foods for Crohn’s disease.

While many foods should ideally be avoided during a flare-up, a few can help calm the digestive tract and are generally tolerable for those with Crohn’s disease. Examples include eggs, fish, peanut butter, white meat poultry, tofu, and low-fat fermented dairy products like yogurt or kefir.

Developing a meal plan for Crohn’s disease can be challenging. It is important to note that each person with IBD has different triggers, and there is no single right food regimen. Patients should work with a doctor or nutritionist to determine their safe and unsafe foods. Maintaining a food journal can help one identify and avoid the triggers and symptoms.

Popular Reads

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Top 6 foods that may reduce dementia risk

Many individuals mistakenly believe that dementia is a disease, but it’s a term used to describe symptoms related to memory, social abilities, and thinking. These symptoms can be challenging to manage and can impact daily activities. However, healthcare professionals often recommend implementing a healthy meal plan as a way to improve management. If you’re interested in learning about how your food intake can reduce the risk of developing dementia, read on. What is dementia? As previously mentioned, dementia is not a specific disease. Instead, health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are among its most frequent causes in older adults. Other known causes of dementia include damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the brain, the formation of balloon-like proteins in the brain, and the breakdown of connections and nerve cells in the brain. While memory loss is one of its most recognizable signs, this symptom alone does not mean one has dementia. Most symptoms of this group of health issues can vary depending on the cause. Hence, here are some of the most common signs to look out for. Memory loss Difficulties while communicating Reasoning and problem-solving issues Poor control of movements and coordination Disorientation Confusion What are the foods that can help reduce the risk of dementia? Typically, dementia and Alzheimer’s are known to be caused by a combination of several factors, such as environmental, lifestyle, and genetic. Furthermore, developing issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can contribute to cognitive decline in patients. Therefore, healthcare professionals suggest the consumption of nutrient-rich foods to reduce dementia risk as one grows older. Some of the foods that can be added to one’s meal plan are: Avocados Avocados are one of the most commonly known superfoods, which can provide the brain with the needed energy without a spike in blood sugar levels.
Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

Avoid these 15 common shower mistakes

There is nothing a warm shower cannot resolve. Showering after a long day can be a stress reliever and enhance one’s mood instantly. It also has several other health benefits besides cleansing the body, including facilitating cold relief, boosting immunity, and relieving muscle pain. However, not bathing the right way can give rise to skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. Here are some common mistakes one should avoid while bathing and showering: Not moisturizing after a shower Wiping after a bath can reduce the body’s moisture, causing dry skin, which can lead to rashes and itching. Dermatologists recommend applying body lotion and moisturizer immediately after a shower to retain skin texture and prevent dryness. One should look for hypoallergenic moisturizers that do not have any added fragrances. Bathing in scorching hot water Scorching hot water can damage keratin cells in the skin’s outer layer. Consequently, the skin becomes dry and dehydrated. It is important to balance the water temperature before stepping into the shower. Ideally, the temperature of the water should be lukewarm. Using the wrong towel An absorbent towel that does not feel rough is ideal for wiping oneself after a shower. The most effective way to select the right towel is to check its density, measured in grams per square meter (GSM). Towels with GSMs between 400 and 550 are considered ideal for use after bathing. One should avoid towels below a GSM of 400, as these towels can be thin and rough, causing skin dryness. Moreover, towels made of superior-quality Egyptian or Turkish cotton are extremely soft and perfect for the skin. Soaping the arms and legs excessively While it is important to wash and clean one’s arms and legs, these areas typically do not collect much oil and dust. Hence, scrubbing them excessively can dry out these areas and hamper their natural texture.
15 signs of a weak immune system

15 signs of a weak immune system

The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that act as the body’s defense mechanism against diseases and infections. The system —the innate immune system that people are born with and the adaptive immune system, which develops due to exposure to toxins and microbes. Both parts work together to keep infection-causing germs and toxins. So, weak immunity can make the body susceptible to diseases and other health issues. High stress levels The American Psychological Association suggests that chronic stress weakens the immune system. This is because stress lowers the number of white blood cells (i.e., lymphocytes) in the body that fight infections, increasing the risk of infections such as the common cold. Persistent cold Most adults develop two to three colds per year, which usually last from 7 to 10 days. During this period, the immune system forms antibodies to fight the virus. However, if one keeps catching a cold or is dealing with common cold symptoms for a long time, it could be a sign of weak immunity. Slow-healing wounds When one develops a cut or a wound, the body immediately goes into damage control mode to stop any bleeding and regenerate skin. Immune cells in the body guide this process. However, when dealing with a weakened immune system, wounds take longer to heal. This can make one more susceptible to infections as well. Frequent infections Those with a lowered immunity are at a higher risk of contracting infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, bronchitis, and skin infections. They are also more likely to experience autoimmune disorders, organ inflammation, blood disorders such as anemia, and growth and developmental delays. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, some signs of weak immunity include: – Having more than four ear infections in a year – Developing pneumonia twice within a year – Dealing with chronic sinusitis or more than three episodes of bacterial sinusitis in a year Fatigue If one constantly feels tired despite getting enough sleep, it may be a sign of weak immunity.