Walk4crohns

[walk4crohns]

walk4crohns

Hi, I was diagnosed with crohn's about 14 years ago. I consider it mild, but I get very depressed about having to run to the bathroom a lot. I'm trying to find ways to get out of the depression. I've started drinking green smoothies to see if I would get more vitamins, minerals, and energy but of course all the vegetables and fruit isn't easy on the digestion. Has anyone tried drinking green smoothies daily? Green smoothies are a way to get your LEAFY greens (spinach, chard, brocolli, etc) into your diet by combining them with fruits.

thanks for input,
walk4crohns

 

[silveyk]

Depression is a tricky animal. Exercise has been shown to be as or more effective than SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). Cognitive behavioral therapy (counseling) has also shown to help in conjunction with medication (and exercise). I also advocate plenty of sunshine and social activity. I have never made my spouse a green smoothy as she cannot tolerate a lot of fiber. But they sound lovely. I used to be from California. We used to swear by wheat grass and spirulina (green algae) shakes. ;~)

Dr. S (spouse to a Crohn's sufferer)

 

[ameslouise]

Hi Walk and welcome!

I agree with Dr S on all of those good ways to help combat depression. There is an interesting thread in the Treatment section about Rhodiola Rosea, an herbal supplement that can be taken to treat depression.

Also, many users on the forum use Amitrypline (sp?), which is a trycyclic antidepressant that has the added bonus of being an antispasmodic.

Good luck, I hope you start feeling better mentally, which will help you feel better physically!

- Amy

 

[walk4crohns]

Thanks so much for all your advice. I have started to exercise slowly, which I think will help. Thanks for all the support.

walk4crohns.com

 

[CDDad]

Hi Walk4crohns,
Are you on any meds? I just ask because you wrote that "you consider it mild". That sounds a lot like I used to think when I was in my 20's. And just look at me now with my lovely ostomy!

If I could go back in time, I would see my GI doc regularly and take my medicine.

I'm all for the Green smoothies (sounds yummie), but sometimes Crohn's drugs are needed to prevent inflamation from simmering.

Sorry for the rant if you are on the right meds!

And welcome to the forum.

 

[spingirl]

I agree with CDad...I thought I had it mild and didn't take my medication the way I should. I had one doctor tell me I was doing myself a grave injustice. I had no idea what he meant. Now I do. I wish someone had told me how serious all of this can get. I had no idea really.

 

[Jer's Girl]

Welcome walk! Have you tried fruit smoothies? my husband makes them for me when I am feeling bad. I personally tolerate fruit a lot better then veggies. Good luck!