News, articles, resources and more for the person with Crohn’s Disease.

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1. Fish Oil and Crohn's Disease...can it help?
2. Suggestions for the newly diagnosed...and the rest of us!
3. Are you malnourished? Crohn's Disease and Nutrition...

1. Fish Oil and Crohn's Disease...can it help?

There's been a lot of talk lately about the benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids, particularly those found in fish oil, and how it might be effective in treating inflammation in Crohn's patients.

A number of visitors have emailed us about the fact that they were experiencing side effects with prescription anti-inflammatories, and were looking for safer alternatives. They started including a fish oil supplement and have noted significant results, including less severe flare-ups and longer remission periods.

It has been well established that fish oil offers numerous benefits for the heart and brain, and has shown promise in treating a wide variety of ailments from arthritis to depression to diabetes. The therapeutic value lies in two particular essential Omega 3 fatty acids that it provides in high concentrations, EPA and DHA...it is these two compounds that offer the anti-inflammatory capability that might help Crohn's sufferers.

Several recent studies have yielded positive results, yet more research needs to be conducted to prove these benefits conclusively. If anyone else has tried fish oil to treat Crohns (or for its many other benefits), let us know...we'd love to hear about your experiences with it.

Read more about Crohns Disease & Fish Oil here.

2. Suggestions for the newly diagnosed...and the rest of us!

Every now and then we like to post some visitor comments, to help others cope with the disease and to let them know they are definitely not alone.

Following are a handful of recent responses to the question: What suggestions would you have for people newly diagnosed? I believe that this is advice that all of us can use.

"Research, research, research..... I didn't know anything about Crohns, knew a couple of people that had the disease and that's all. Now, I have friends with this disease and they have helped me a great deal. Talk to others with Crohns. Family and friends get tired of hearing about your disease no how much they love you."

"Don't get discouraged, it's sometimes an embarrassing or difficult disease to get through, but you will have some good days to look forward to."

"Gather as much info you can and eliminate as much stress as you can from your life."

"Find someone you can talk to about it. I have felt that I was alone with this until I found message boards and forums where I can vent and just have someone to talk to who is also going through this."

"The newly diagnosed need to realize that they are not alone. There are so many people going through the same stuff. Also, don't be afraid to let others know you have crohn's because most really care for you."

"Stay on the doctor about treatment. Don't give up or get depressed. Take your meds as regularly as possible. Ask many questions about Crohns, meds, diet, mental support, activities, exercise."

"Ask lots of questions. Don't be pushed around into thinking what ever they say you have to do. Talk to other people with the disease. And most of all don't eat what you cant you will pay for it trust me."

"Try not to let it get you down.Your not always going to feel like you been hit by a truck!"

"Always get a second opinion. Never give up. Listen and read carefully. Finally get all information, it has been two years and I am still finding out new information."

"I am newly diagnosed and I'm just taking it day by day. It is just a small part of your life. Live the rest of it."

I'm sure everyone benefits from your words of encouragement...I know I do..keep 'em coming!

3. Are you malnourished? Crohn's Disease and Nutrition...

Studies show that many people that suffer from Crohn's Disease and related illnesses are severely malnourished, for several reasons:

1. The impaired small intestine is oftentimes unable to properly digest and absorb vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other important nutrients from the foods we eat.

2. Due to the nature of the illness, a loss of appetite is quite common, especially during flare-ups.

3. The body requires an increased amount of energy to combat the disease, which translates into a greater nutrient requirement than that of a healthy individual.

As such, it is important that Crohn's sufferers are aware of their nutritional requirements and take steps to ensure that they are not malnourished. A lack of important nutrients can exacerbate their symptoms as well as lead to further health complications down the road.

Some of the nutrients that are often lacking in Crohn's sufferers are vitamin B12, folic acid, Vitamin D, magnesium and potassium. These can all be found in a high quality nutritional supplement, which many people use to round out their diets.

To read more about Crohns Disease and Diet just follow the link.

That's all for now! We wish you and your families a happy and healthy holiday season and New Year! Until next time, here's to your health!

Health Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for information only and supplied “as is.” It is NOT intended to substitute for the services of a licensed health care provider in the diagnosis or treatment of Crohn’s Disease or any other disease, condition, or injury.