Scared to eat
Tue, August 02, 2011 8:35 PM
I've had Crohn's for almost 20 years now (diagnosed very young) and ever since entering the professional world (five years ago) I have had one bad flare after another. This year I have had four significant flares each ending up with me on steroids. My most recent flare had new symptoms (spasms and twisting in the colon) and though the steroids have helped I am now left scared to eat anything. I haven't have much of an appetite in the first place but now with this fear of eating I am getting way too thin and my doc is insisting on protein drinks and if I can't get over it an NG tube. I just don't know how to relax about it and try to eat. I so don't want things to get worse again and I don't want the symptoms to worsen again and I'm afraid that everything I will eat will make me sick. I just want to be able to enjoy food again. Anyone else ever felt this way?
hsmarshallJoined Jul 15, 2011
Thu, August 04, 2011 6:24 PM
Reply posted for hsmarshall.
Oh and I also loved the idea of a massage! I think insurance should cover it for chronic illness patients 
Either way, I may try to schedule one for myself, that would be a nice treat and something relaxing to get me away from all the stress of the flare only if for just a bit.
hsmarshallJoined Jul 15, 2011
Thu, August 04, 2011 6:22 PM
Reply posted for katya.
Seeing a nutritionist is an idea I really like! Any idea how to go about finding one? I did a google search and it doesn't seem like there are many in my area (according to that search anyway) and I would really like someone familiar with IBD. I'll have to do some fishing around tomorrow. Hard to just pick a name out of a phone book though. Thanks for the responses and advice to everyone! I'm really feeling so distrusting of my body I'm afraid that now I'm doing damage by how little I'm eating. Can't win for losing sometimes I suppose. 
hsmarshallJoined Jul 15, 2011
Thu, August 04, 2011 11:40 AM
Reply posted for hsmarshall.
it sounds like stress and anxiety over food are causing some issues. Have you tried meditation, massage, accupuncture or my favorite- reflexology to relax? Perhaps mapping out on paper a plan of foods that start with wherever you are now, and each day building up with a new item < keeping the fiber content low and soluble to begin with>. eggs, fish < I like tuna and salmon salad- you can use a full-calorie mayo or whole yogurt > summertime is great because you can poach and peel soft fruit and put it in the blender or food processor with protein shake or silken tofu. can you tolerate watermelon?
Make yourself a written plan where you eat every 4 hours and have healthy proteins and fats at least three times during the day. If you don't want to eat, or find yourself anxious or putting it off- find a way to reward yourself.
Your body needs fuel to fight for its own health. It needs your help right now. see if your doctor/ health insurance can get you to a nutritionist that could help you map out a plan.
Best wishes!
Joined Sep 15, 2010
Wed, August 03, 2011 10:37 AM
Reply posted for hsmarshall.
I know exactly how you feel 
If you get a chance, read my post dated Aug 3rd (from Papa), regarding Protein Pru Tect, I had lost 35 pounds and the fear of eating and knowing the almost immediate results left me scared to eat. It works for me, and if you do try it, I hope it will work for you too 
.
papaJoined Nov 15, 2010
Related Topics
How Can I Reduce Stress B...
Joined Apr 3, 2025
Stress reduction prior to online exams is facilita....
read more
Unlock Your Potential wit...
emmawatson786Joined Apr 7, 2025
Unlock Your Potential with Capella Assessment
In ....
read more
The Role of Capella Asses...
emmawatson786Joined Apr 7, 2025
The Role of Capella Assessment in Modern Education....
read more