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management and diet while on a long-distance hike


Sun, April 19, 2015 10:48 AM

I'm planning on doing the Appalachian trail next year. One of the concerns is how best to manage my colitis, other than hoping I don't have a flare-up during the months I'll be on the trail!

Though I used Asacol in the first year or so after I was diagnosed with the condition back in 2000, I eventually stopped taking it and really haven't used anything else since. Nor do I really bother with associated diets - I was never told anything about the matter actually when I was initially diagnosed, and only recently discovered that the subject is one that can affect the condition. Having read/heard of so many horror tales regarding how debilitating the disease can be, I can only assume that I've been fortunate in that I've gotten off lightly, because other than the odd flare-up and having to go to the bathroom regularly I lead a pretty normal life.

Obviously for something as arduous as the Appalachian trail I have to plan ahead, and I'm wondering how best to manage my diet to minimize inflammation and any 'issues' - any suggested medications that might help bind things up a bit? Though I generally function well and have always been a pretty tireless and fast hiker I also want to ensure I don't get overly fatigued by the disease along the way, so I was thinking of taking along some supplements, especially iron, to counter any effects.

Any other thoughts?

FPO timbo59
Joined Apr 19, 2015