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New to this....have questions!!!!

Tue, January 21, 2014 11:06 AM

My 12 year old son was just diagnosed right after Christmas with Crohns. I have done so much research since then I feel like my head is going to explode! The info is helpful, as well the info from my family members who are living with the disease as well, but how do you get a 12 year old (will be 13 in April) to follow the diet recommendations and lifestyle changes?! He has been fighting me every step of the way! He takes the news and acts like it's no big deal.....like he thinks it's going to go away no matter how much I try to explain to him it isn't! I am totally lost at what to do!!! His biological father isn't a part of his life and if it weren't for his step-dad I would have lost my mind weeks ago!!! Any insight from those of you going through this would be a huge help!!

zombieking2014
Joined Jan 21, 2014

Sun, January 26, 2014 1:21 PM

Reply posted for zombieking2014.

I think you should encourage him to do what feels right for his body. There is ZERO evidence that specific diet changes help with IBD; it is all very personal. What works for your son is not what will work for anyone else. My husband was told not to eat dairy, but he wouldn't give up cheese. Two days after his UC diagnosis, he was weaning himself back onto cheese and now he eats it by the brick again. Turns out, cheese isn't a trigger for him. So help your son figure out what works for him to maximize food enjoyment and minimize GI distress.

scimom2
Joined Jan 26, 2014

Sat, January 25, 2014 10:59 AM

Reply posted for zombieking2014.

Unfortunately....you can only provide him with the knowledge ...but ultimately it will be his decision. I too have a son with Crohns diagnosed at 15 and is just now at 23 starting to alter his diet somewhat due to flares and meds that are not working. I do try to cook most of his dinners so that he is eating what he should...but I cant be there for every meal nor would it make a difference. Just do the best you can.. without putting too much pressure...as sometimes that can make it worse.....and eventually he will realize which foods bother him and hopefully will make better choices.

crohnie mom
Joined Jan 24, 2014

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