Hi I'm new to the boards. I stumbled upon them and hoped others with similar symptoms could relate and help me out.

I have suffered and endured Chrons since i was 12. For the past 12 years i have been on a diet that excludes dairy, wheat (and glutten), sugar, and pork. Of course as hard as i have tried, i have not been perfect on this, but i have done my best and it has kept me far clear of surgery. But i am worried about the effects of chrons and what it could lead to.

I have had this occur several times. Either after physical activity or getting up and not eating breakfast, i will begin to shake, feel weak, slight dizziness, and have chest pain or atleast shortness of breath. I always feel it is low sugar so i rush to eat something. Generally i regain strength and go on my way. But sometimes the feeling lasts all day. It feels like i never catch my breath. Could this be a sign that diabetes is setting in? Im just curious and looking for answers. Thanks in advance to any advice or suggestions.

Corey,
It does indeed sound like low blood sugar, otherwise known as hypoglycemia. This can be a precursor to diabetes, but that's not always the case.

Since you mention that it happens after physical activity (which can lower your blood glucose levels) or in the morning, especially if you skip breakfast (which would then mean you hadn't eaten for at least 8-10 hours), I strongly suspect it is low blood glucose.

To prevent this from happening, you might want to have a bedtime snack of something that contains protein (peanut butter, a slice of chicken or beef), and also perhaps the same type of snack before you do any heavy exercise.

You can search the internet, both on this board and elsewhere, for "hypoglycemic diet", which will give you a better idea of how to stave off these episodes.

Also, make sure you're being tested at least once a year for diabetes. Since Crohn's is an auto-immune illness, as is Diabetes, you might possibly be more susceptible to developing Type 1 diabetes (although hypoglycemia is usually a precursor to Type 2, not Type 1).

I think it's wonderful, and a testament to your hard work at sticking with your diet, that you've managed Crohn's for so many years without needing surgery. I hope you never need it!

Ruth

That happened to me when I cut out sugar (also for health reasons)
I am not sure how much fibre and wholegrains someone with Chrons can take as it can be quite abrasive but I would try to eat Quinoa, wholegrain rice and the best thing (for sensitive system) Oats, they contain lots of fibre and B vitamins and other goodies that will make sure you are getting enough energy as when you cut out many food groups especially in one go your body will be losing VITAL nutrients which it needs to work efficiently.

I advise you to drink plenty of bottled water 1.5 to 2 liters a day, this will help your digestive system to work more efficiently and help get rid of toxins. However do not drink with your meal as this has a negative effect on the digestive enzymes, diluting them therefore making them less effective drink 20mins to half hour either side of a meal.

I think it's a good thing cutting out the foods you have chosen but you must replace them with foods that have similar nutrients.
I would go and see a nutritionist to help you do this as it can be tricky.
Are you allowed to take supplements? as this can interfere with medications

Leanne

Are you allowed to take supplements? as this can interfere with medications

Leanne

Yes and i have. I have run low on these and i know its an area my wife have been looking into to build me up.

Ok, What supplelments do you take and what make are they?.

The problem is that you may not be seeing all the benefits from the foods and vitamins because your body's ability to absorb the nutrients may be impaired. The first thing I would do would be to strenghten your digestive system with good bacteria and enzymes to assist with digestion.

I am still studying to be a nutritionist and we haven't covered Chrons yet so I am not sure if taking enzymes and probiotics is advisable with your condition.I know it is advised for many other gasto-related conditions but I would go and see a nutritionist.

One more thing to go easy on and avoid if possible is citrus fruits as this can be harsh on the system, instead go for guava and things like that to get your vitamin C etc.