My story... and a question

[spinsolution]

I've been suffering from diarrhea, bloating, and cramps for around 7 years now, with it gradually getting worse. This is not counting the time when I genuinely believe I was simply lactose intolerant (most of my life). At first I thought it was related to being lactose intolerant, then I started noticing that even though I avoided dairy products, the symptoms persisted. I assumed I was suffering from IBS. I tried IBS-friendly diets and did not find any relief. This is when I decided to see a doctor about it (3 years ago)

At first my doctor prescribed me some Immodium, which as we know, is more like a bandaid than anything. This didn't attack the root cause of the problem. I was finally able to see a specialist, which I didn't know at the time was probably a Gastroenterologist. He basically prescribed me more Immodium.

2 years went by and of course my symptoms were getting worse. I finally saw a different doctor and he referred me to a GI nurse. She ordered an endoscopy and colonoscopy, which both came back negative. I was also administered multiple blood tests. Finally, I was able to get an upper GI x-ray, which also came back somewhat negative but did find an 'article' of some sort. One of the blood tests showed elevated igG antibodies, which apparently is a possible indicator of Crohn's.

The next course of action is swallowing a camera pill, but that may take some time to order. I forgot to mention, this is all through the Veteran's Affairs system, which is known to be notoriously slow.

For the past few days, I've been on a gluten-free, yeast-free, dairy-free diet. It has helped somewhat, but there are a few things I am having trouble giving up. GUM and COFFEE! I know I have to give up gum, specifically Orbits, because I'm sure the sugar-alcohol is causing cramping and what not. Coffee is basically a laxative for me.

My question is, what the heck can I chew to fight my bad breath? I eat a fairly balanced diet, though I am somewhat dieting so I'm sure that's not helping the bad breath. Is there any gum, candy, or mint out there that is both sugar and sugar-alcohol free?

 

[mikeyarmo]

Welcome spinsolution!

Sorry to hear you had so much trouble initially with getting a proper diagnosis. Some of the symptoms with IBD can be confused for a variety of other diseases or even just a "weak stomach" so your story is unfortunately too typical.

I personally do not chew gum. I would recommend you try a health/natural food store if one exists in your area as I would think they are your best show at finding an all natural/sugar free gum. Another option I can think of is using peppermint leaves (or maybe even oil) to freshen your breath.

I am not sure exactly what your diet is, but if you are not eating carbohydrates your body might have entered ketosis. This is what people on low-carb diets are attempting to enter so that there body will burn fat instead of sugar (glucose). A common side effect of this is bad breath. I think drinking a lot of water may help with this, but can not recall for sure.

 

[spinsolution]

Thanks for the welcome. It has been a tough ride to get to this point but I'm glad we almost have it nailed.

I've been searching online for types of gum but all I can find are stuff with either sorbitol or xylitol in it. I've been reading that I should avoid both. Though xylitol does appear to be the lesser of the two in terms of harm. I forgot to mention but I also have GERD, which means peppermint oil is out of the question unfortunately. I'll try and find a health foods store around my area though.

My diet is on the lower end of the carbs spectrum, but that is due to the lack of bread. I still get between 150-200 grams per day. I also drink plenty of water, much more than 8 glasses.

 

[mikeyarmo]

That amount of carbs is enough to stay out of ketosis I believe, so that likely is not what is the issue.

I would think it is best to elimniate all sugar alcohols as you want to try to be 100% compliant with the diet in order to see if it does provide any results.

I used to chew gum when I was younger, and I found that after a while of giving it up I no longer missed it or craved it. I think it is just the habit of doing it. I know that you are giving up so much right now that giving up gum just makes it harder... hopefully you can find a good substitute soon.