Foods That May Help Manage Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affects three million Americans annually. People with Crohn’s may restrict their diet to alleviate symptoms, but this can lead to malnutrition, decreased bone strength, and growth delays. However, diet plays a crucial role in managing the condition. By selecting appropriate foods, individuals with Crohn’s can enjoy a varied diet, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of malnutrition. It's important to consult a doctor for personalized dietary advice.

Low-Fiber Carbohydrates

Fiber is an important topic in the context of IBD, with many studies exploring the appropriate amount and type for those affected. People with Crohn's should include fiber in their diet but may benefit from a low-fiber diet during flare-ups, as high-fiber foods can exacerbate symptoms. Those with a narrowed bowel or obstruction are often advised to follow a low-fiber diet. Low-fiber carbohydrates include white rice, bread, and pasta.

Low-Fiber Fruit and Vegetables

To maintain a balanced diet, it's important to include fruits and vegetables, even on a low-fiber diet. During a flare-up, opt for well-cooked vegetables without skins, seeds, or stems, and avoid raw or steamed vegetables, beans, and cruciferous types like cabbage and cauliflower. Low-fiber fruit options include cooked or canned fruits, juices, and small amounts of honeydew melon and ripe banana. Avoid raw and dried fruits, especially prunes.

Lean Protein

Protein is essential for healing and muscle building, and people with Crohn's disease often need more due to bowel inflammation. However, high-protein foods can also be high in fat, which may worsen symptoms. Good sources of lean protein include fish, poultry (skinless white meat), soy, and eggs.

Oily Fish or Fish Oil Supplements

Fatty acids help reduce inflammation, and omega-3s may be beneficial in preventing and treating Crohn's disease. Research indicates they can decrease disease activity and improve quality of life. Omega-3s are primarily found in oily fish and are available as supplements.

Fermented Foods

Probiotics, found in certain foods and supplements, boost beneficial gut bacteria. While specific research on Crohn's is limited, evidence supports their benefits for other IBD conditions. A study showed probiotics can stabilize the intestinal barrier and reduce symptoms in children. Good sources include fermented foods like live yogurt, kombucha, and kimchi, as well as supplements.

Foods Containing Vitamin D

Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption for healthy bones and may help fight infection and reduce inflammation. Limited research suggests it could benefit Crohn's management. Our bodies produce vitamin D from sunlight, and it can also be obtained from foods like fortified plant-based milks, salmon, tuna, and sardines.

Turmeric

Research indicates that curcumin, a natural compound in turmeric, may aid in treating ulcerative colitis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It could also be beneficial for Crohn's disease. Turmeric can be easily incorporated into recipes or taken as a supplement.

Low-FODMAP Foods

A low-FODMAP diet may help manage symptoms during a Crohn's flare-up. FODMAPs are gas-producing carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest, such as fructose, lactose, and gluten. Low-FODMAP foods include dairy-free milk, eggs, meat, oats, and rice. This diet is very restrictive and should be followed under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Fluids

During Crohn's flare-ups, dehydration can occur from fluid loss due to diarrhea or reduced intake due to nausea. Mild dehydration may cause dry mouth, headaches, fatigue, and low energy, while chronic dehydration can lead to kidney issues. To stay hydrated, drink plenty of water and herbal tea, but avoid sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can worsen symptoms.

Early Symptoms of Measles: Recognizing the Initial Signs for Prompt Action

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness preventable through vaccination. However, understanding the early signs and symptoms is critical for rapid diagnosis and prevention of its spread, especially with the recent resurgence in cases. Recognizing these early signals allows for quicker medical intervention, minimizing potential complications.

Fever: The First Red Flag

• Progression: Characteristically, the fever starts mildly and steadily increases over the first few days. This gradual escalation is a key differentiator from some other viral infections where the fever might spike rapidly.
• Temperature: The fever can eventually reach high temperatures (103°F or 39.4°C and above), sometimes even exceeding 104°F (40°C).
• Accompanying Symptoms: The fever is usually accompanied by other early symptoms, creating a cluster that should raise suspicion.
• Management: Manage the fever with appropriate doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (following recommended guidelines for age and weight).

Cough: More Than Just a Cold

• Nature: The cough associated with measles is typically described as dry, hacking, and persistent. It's often more intense than a typical cold cough.
• Origin: The cough stems from the virus irritating the airways.
• Impact: The cough can be quite debilitating, affecting sleep and daily activities.
• Treatment: Over-the-counter cough medications may provide temporary relief, but they won't address the underlying cause.

Runny Nose (Coryza): Beyond the Sniffles

• Characteristics: Measles-related coryza isn't just a mild sniffle. It involves significant inflammation and congestion of the nasal passages.
• Discharge: The nasal discharge is typically clear in the initial stages but can become thicker and potentially yellowish or greenish as the infection progresses.
• Impact: The runny nose can lead to difficulty breathing, especially in infants.
• Alleviation: Using a humidifier, saline nasal drops, and gentle suction (for infants) can help alleviate congestion.

Sore Throat: A Painful Irritation

• Description: The sore throat caused by measles is often described as scratchy or painful.
• Mechanism: The virus inflames the throat's mucous membranes.
• Manifestation: Swallowing may become uncomfortable or even painful.
• Relief: Gargling with warm salt water, using throat lozenges, and staying hydrated can soothe the sore throat.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Red and Watery Eyes

• Presentation: The hallmark of measles-related conjunctivitis is redness, watering, and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
• Secretion: There might be some discharge from the eyes, but it's typically watery and not as thick and purulent as with bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Sensitivity to Light: Photophobia can be quite pronounced, making it difficult to tolerate bright light.
• Remedies: Applying cool compresses to the eyes can provide some relief. Dimming the lights may help with photophobia.

The Diagnostic Key: Koplik Spots

These pinpoint-sized white lesions (often described as grains of salt or sand) surrounded by a narrow red inflammatory areola occur on the buccal mucous membrane. Koplik spots appear 1-2 days before measles rash. They are pathognomonic of measles and are virtually diagnostic.

What to Do at the First Sign

• Isolate: If you suspect measles based on these early symptoms, isolate yourself or the affected individual to prevent further spread.
• Contact Your Doctor Immediately: Call your healthcare provider before going to their office or a clinic to inform them of your suspicion and allow them to take necessary precautions. Telehealth/virtual appointment may be an option.
• Avoid Sharing: Do not share personal items like utensils, cups, or towels.
• Monitor Symptoms: Closely monitor symptoms and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

Causes of Measles: Understanding How the Infection Spreads

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus. The virus primarily infects the respiratory system, initially targeting the cells that line the throat and lungs. This is why the initial symptoms are often similar to a cold. It spreads easily from person to person, making it a significant public health concern. Understanding the causes and transmission methods of measles is essential for prevention and control.

Transmission Methods: How Measles Spreads

• Airborne Transmission: This is the most common way measles spreads. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or even just breathes, they release tiny droplets containing the measles virus. These droplets can float in the air for up to two hours, and someone else can get infected by breathing them in.



• Direct Contact: Less commonly, measles can spread through direct contact with infected nasal or throat secretions. For example, if an infected person coughs on a surface and someone else touches that surface and then touches their face (eyes, nose, or mouth), they could get infected.



• High Contagiousness: Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. An infected person can spread the virus for about four days before they even develop the rash and for four days after the rash appears. This means someone can be spreading the virus without even knowing they are sick. Being around someone with measles, especially in a closed room or poorly ventilated space, significantly increases the risk of getting infected.

Who Is Most Likely to Get Measles?

• Unvaccinated Individuals: The biggest risk factor, by far, is not being vaccinated. People who haven't received the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine are highly likely to get measles if they are exposed to the virus.
• Infants and Young Children: Babies who are too young to get the MMR vaccine (usually under 12 months) and children who haven't had both doses of the vaccine are at higher risk.



• Travel to Endemic Areas: If you travel to a country where measles is common, you have a higher chance of being exposed. Countries in Africa, Asia, and some parts of Europe often have higher measles rates.
• Weakened Immune Systems: OPeople with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, or medications that suppress the immune system are more likely to get a severe case of measles.
• Vitamin A Deficiency: Low levels of vitamin A may also increase the risk of getting measles or make the illness more severe.

Protecting Yourself and Others

The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine is very safe and effective. Also, general hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly are very important. High vaccination rates within communities are crucial for protecting those too young or unable to be vaccinated.