Nearly 1.4 million Americans suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and this number is steadily increasing. Managing Crohn's disease effectively often involves dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes. While medical treatments are crucial, many individuals seek additional support through books that offer guidance on diet, nutrition, and holistic approaches to managing their condition. This article explores several books that provide valuable insights and practical advice for individuals with Crohn's disease.
Understanding Food Intolerances and Holistic Approaches
"Crohn's Disease Diet Book" by Christie Korth, a nutrition expert, helps those with Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis understand their food intolerances and lays out a holistic approach to dealing with their IBD that can help them lead healthy and pain-free lives.
A significant portion of the book focuses on nutrition, with Korth explaining menu planning, food choices, the concept of heating and cooling foods, common Crohn’s disease drug side effects and how to counter act them nutritionally, acid/alkaline imbalance and the major one--food intolerance. The nutritional information is enhanced by a thorough discussion of beneficial vitamins, herbs, natural chemicals that readers can take to supplement their diets. Korth shares tips on what to buy and how to take certain supplements, giving readers a complete idea of the nutritional options available to them.
Furthermore, Korth explores the potential emotional factors involved in the onset of the disease, making it a pioneering work that addresses both the nutritional and emotional aspects of IBD. Drawing from her own experience with IBD, Korth provides insight and supplements the book with her own account of achieving wellness. She also includes stories of IBD relief told by those who have worked with her. The compassionate tone, understanding, and humor in this book offer emotional support for the reader, which is a key component for his or her recovery.
The book doesn't advocate a "one size fits all" solution, nor does it leave readers reliant on prescription drugs or surgery. Its recipe and diet advice allows readers to achieve digestive health.
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Practical Tools and Recipes
In addition to the groundbreaking information on digestive wellness, this book contains 100 recipes suitable for those with IBD. All recipes - for everything from beverages to vegetables, from salad to dessert - are free of the top eight common allergens. There are recipes that are supportive to those having a flare up, and lists of foods you should eat and foods you should avoid. The book is also complete with shopping substitution cards for those who have food intolerance. Along with the abundance of recipes, Korth includes daily ideas for lunches “on the go” so busy readers can eat convenient, healthy meals.
The book also includes sample menus, exercises, worksheets, and personal habit quizzes that can help readers reflect on their own habits and explore the benefits of committing to digestive health.
Exploring Specific Dietary Approaches
Breaking the Vicious Cycle: Intestinal Health Through Diet
"Breaking the Vicious Cycle: Intestinal Health Through Diet" by Elaine Gottschall offers a specific dietary approach designed for individuals with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (UC), but it can also be used by people with other digestive conditions. The diet aims to modify the gut microbiome to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which in turn may reduce inflammation and increase the likelihood of achieving remission. This approach involves restricting certain carbohydrates to starve the "bad" bacteria in the gut. While some individuals find this diet restrictive, others have reported experiencing relief from their symptoms.
The Paleo Approach: Reverse Autoimmune Disease and Heal Your Body
"The Paleo Approach: Reverse Autoimmune Disease and Heal Your Body" by Sarah Ballantyne, PhD, presents a science-backed approach to managing autoimmune diseases, including Crohn's. Drawing from her own experiences and extensive research, Dr. Ballantyne developed the Autoimmune Paleo Diet, an elimination diet designed to remove inflammatory foods and promote healing through nutrient-dense foods. This diet is based on the principles of the Paleolithic diet, with additional restrictions to address autoimmune conditions. While some may find it restrictive or overly detailed, many in the IBD community have found it to be a valuable resource.
Addressing Emotional and Psychological Well-being
You Can Heal Your Life
"You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise Hay explores the connection between emotional well-being and physical health. Hay's approach focuses on healing past traumas, harnessing the power of affirmation, and understanding one's role in life experiences. The book offers exercises aimed at fostering healing, forgiveness, self-love, and acceptance. While not specifically tailored to Crohn's disease, some individuals find it to be a helpful tool for addressing the emotional aspects of living with a chronic condition. However, it's important to note that this approach may not resonate with everyone.
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