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Still somewhat in a flare. Over time, my weight has crept up, and to start with, I'd like to lose 10 pounds. Any suggestions ? I eat sensibly ... watch portions, include veggies when I can, and don't overindulge in junk food. My husband recently started the Atkins diet ... he's had great success, yet I'm not sure my intestines can handle that type of eating. I've also found that high fiber, raw veggies, and now salads sort of bother me. Typical breakfast for me is a slice of toast with small amt. of peanut butter, or a few slices of bacon (eggs bother me). Lunch would be lean deli turkey and a slice of cheese on white bread (wheat bread doesn't agree with me). Dinner is either chicken, pork or ground meat. Any suggestions ? Maybe the things I think don't agree really do, but its just part of the disease ? In theory, I'd like a quick way to drop some pounds, and then move to a sensible diet plan.

Also, has anyone found they have gained weight on Lialda ?

 Reply posted for aliciam.

I've found that veggies are not good at all when I'm in a flare, which is a bummer when you actually want to lose weight, but the trick is well-cooked veggies, soup or stew form. I would also try not having pig products (I hate to say that, because I adore bacon, ham, etc) but it is harder to digest. Try sticking with chicken & fish. Starches are great when you're in a flare and too skinny, but again, when I'm heavy, I avoid bread & rice, much as i love them. It's so hard to find the right balance, good luck!

 Reply posted for aliciam.

Everyone's diet could use a little adjusting, but I think a great suggestion for you would be to eat 5-7 small meals a day, instead of 3 large meals.  This will boost your metabolism by keeping your "fires" burning.  This is something that my wife and I have used to great success.  It is also something that is typically recommended for someone with UC or Crohn's. Do you also have a workout routine?  It is tough when you are not feeling good, but even the most basic routine is better than nothing. 

Tony V.

www.lonelysmallintestine.com

 Reply posted for aliciam.

Good morning!

Nuts- this is a minefield and it really depends on your body.  I NEVER eat peanuts... I can eat cashews, walnuts, pecans, and almonds.  I eat a few at a time.  I do not eat them daily.  They are a treat.  As my body heals and normalizes, I can tolerate more things. Seeds are not good for me. 

Salads are a rare treat and in small amounts.  I use olive oil and vinegar based dressings and try to make my own. Bananas are my friend.  I only eat canned or frozen fruit (frozen- I zing it in the microwave).  I hope to be able to eat fresh peaches and strawberries this year.  Veggies are cooked.  No cucumber unless it is finely shredded and diced (no peeling or seeds) and mixed into a 'ziki sauce.  I have just discovered that I react to gluten.  I am not allergic nor do I have Celiac disease but it causes abdominal pain.  Peanut butter is always natural and organic for me. 

Read the book "The New Eating Right for a Bad Gut" by John Scala.  He really explains foods and their effects very well.

Oh one note- Broccolli- boil it until you can mash it with a fork.  Seems this is one veggie that can really block you up.

Eating is not easy. Finding an eating style is a long journey.  The payoff is pretty skin, healthy weight, and vitality.

Breezy

 Reply posted for breezy.

Hi Breezy.

Thanks so much for your reply and your advice. I will definitely begin to tweak my diet with some of your suggestions. I found a list of anti-inflammatory foods at www.metabolismadvice.com Some things that are included are nuts, sunflower seeds, and a host of fruits and veggies. I'm afraid to try the nuts and seeds, and as for fruits and veggies - I haven't had fruit in forever, and the veggies I do cook. I love salad, but have begun to limit that as well. Do you eat nuts or any sort of raw veggie, or do you cook it all down ? I'm willing to do just about anything at this point. I'm tired of being in a flare (even though its better than it was when it started in Dec), and tired of carrying the extra pounds. This disease is so aggravating !

 Reply posted for breezy.

Hi Breezy.

Thanks so much for your reply and your advice. I will definitely begin to tweak my diet with some of your suggestions. I found a list of anti-inflammatory foods at www.metabolismadvice.com Some things that are included are nuts, sunflower seeds, and a host of fruits and veggies. I'm afraid to try the nuts and seeds, and as for fruits and veggies - I haven't had fruit in forever, and the veggies I do cook. I love salad, but have begun to limit that as well. Do you eat nuts or any sort of raw veggie, or do you cook it all down ? I'm willing to do just about anything at this point. I'm tired of being in a flare (even though its better than it was when it started in Dec), and tired of carrying the extra pounds. This disease is so aggravating !

 Reply posted for aliciam.

ANY anti-inflammatory will cause weight gain.  Tylenol will cause a temporary bloat.  Weight loss is never "quick".  I am having success eating more anti inflammatory foods and less processed foods.  I limit sugar, gluten, and beef.  I had to really monitor my food to find an eating style that gives me the nutrition I need, the pain free life I now demand, and the ability to maintain a weight I am happy with.  Some things I have found- Dreamfields pasta, canned fruit in juice, gluten free products, overcooked veggies with wonderful olive oil on them, and juice.  Sometimes our calorie intake is too low and our body goes into starvation mode.  Figure out how many calories you eat in a day and add 200 more for a week.  See if your body comes out of the starvation nightmare.  Good luck.  It took me a while to figure things out.  I researched, asked questions, and kept a detailed diary.

Breezy