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Im searching for anyone else out there that has issues loosing weight.  Im pretty heavy.  Most people Ive talked to with Crohns are too thin and cant gain weight.  Why do I have the opposite problem?  It seems that ever since I was diagnosed, my weight only fluctuates 20 lbs up or down.  I was only on a small amout of Entocort (and have since been taken off of that) so no heavy seroids.  I am taking Humira.  But I cant seem to loose it no matter what I do.  I do watch what I eat and try to eat halthy.  Im going to try very hard to really ramp up my workouts, but it very difficult when Im so drained all the time.  Any ideas on how to get a small energey boost to get through a work out without inducing pain with giant amounts of caffine?

Reply posted for jennymattk.

There are several factors that could contribute to weight gain in people with Crohn's disease. Some medications used to treat Crohn's, such as steroids, can cause weight gain. In addition, people with Crohn's may have dietary restrictions that limit their food choices and make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

If you are concerned about your weight, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider or try weight loss affirmations. They can help you develop a healthy eating plan and recommend exercise that is appropriate for your condition. In addition, they may be able to adjust your medication regimen to minimize weight gain.

 Reply posted for quarters.

Yes! I have the back, hands, feet, and neck pains when it's cold. Anyone who thinks that IBD is limitd to the gut and abdominal area is mistaken for sure. It becomes a full body experience. 

 Reply posted for muthfamily5.

I have UC and some other previously diagnosed issues. I cannot seem to lose weight either. It has to be the meds. Although I will say that many people with IBD eat alot of starchy food and that is the fastest way to kill a metalbolism. I am going to go straight paleo and see how that works for me. Anyone taking prednisone or another system steroid will gain weight, that's unavoidable. I limit my pred to a very low dose and only during times of near emergency. I do wonder if the Apriso (mesalamine) is slowing my metabolism down. I was always small and thin, then had two kids. No, went from a size 0 to a 4. Not terrible, but a good difference. Now, I am a size 6/8, and the UC draws so much water/fluid to my abdomen that I look permanently pregnant and sloshy. Add a hint of perimenopausal body change, and bam...I just became a chubby, tired, toad with a muffin top and bad skin! I really do think that Paleo eating and more exercise will help. It can't hurt. 

My meds:

Apriso
Canasa
Rowasa (rarely use)
Prednisone (prn and low dose)
Tramadol
Neurontin (a known weight ballooner, but I am at a very low dose) 

I suspect that taking this many meds does unfortunate things toa  metabolism, but my UC is moderate to severe, and the alternative for me is incapacitation. 

I have been drinking a cup og organic beef bone brother daily, and that has actually done more for the UC than you would beleive. Also, avoiding gluten and lactose stops the cramps and temesmus that I am told by GI practice is really IBS and that I am just unlucky enough to have both. I don't buy it. I'm a healthcare professional and I know that most of their speil is BS. It's all inflammation and nerve disruption. Some is ulcerative, some is not.

to Molly22...I understand what you're going thru. I lost 10 lbs. the first weekend I ended up in the hospital. I lost another 15 lbs. in the following 2 weeks.  Prednisone nearly gave me a nervous breakdown, had to stop taking that. Then went on Sulfazine and Norco for pain. AFter about a month and half, I was able to eat more than cream of chicken soup, but mostly starches. I've gained the 25 back because that's all I can safely eat..starches.  I def. get looks when I share that I have Crohn's because everyone I've seen look like death warmed over and they need a square meal. So, I don't get taken very seriously.  But you have got to share with your doctor what is going on with you. If you aren't comfortable with him/her..take steps to find another who will listen to you. You are what is most important.

 Reply posted for ljala.

I have the same problem I have crohns and interstitial cystitis and I use to weigh 98 pounds after having my kids I gained over 60 pounds and I have problems losing it even controlling it is horrible

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have always weighed 110 but after getting diagnosis with both uc and crohns I weigh around 135- 140 why is this

 Reply posted for molly22.

I relate to many of you. When my crohns was active, I lost a lot of weight and was unhealthy. But that was also the one time I had a flat stomach in my LIFE. Once my disease was under control, I gained all my weight back and more, including my stomach:( Im still heavy. People have stopped complementing me. I look pregnant and its hard because I'm in highschool and I have no confidence. I only wear tshirts now. My doctor ignores the fact that I've gained 50 lbs but thats partly my fault. I don't go out of my way to ask for help. I'm just not comfortable talking about. Sorry if it seems like I'm venting, I've just been holding all this in for a while.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I'm having such a difficult time with this ulcerative colitis!!! I take asacol and Canasa rectally my doctor states Canasa rectally as a steroid will cause way less weight gain!!! I'm 5ft and never never have gone over 100 pounds unless I was pregnant and I'm 42 and tubes are tied but eat healthy I've tried all sorts of diets but all I do is gain weight I'm disgusted with myself!!! I'm now at 130 and can't lose a thing!! Please help!!!

I have been "fluffy" my whole life. I lost about 30 lbs back before I was diagnosed at 20. Like a lot of people who are first diagnosed, I didn't know how to make the pain and diarrhea stop, so I just stopped eating. I eventually filled out again. Every time I have lost weight due to Crohns, either from starvation or just a fast travel time, I have gained more weight than I originally started with. I have had at least ten surgeries and have even "lived at the hospital" for over a year. I think us Crohnies get body dismorphia after awhile. When we are sick, the upside is always that people tell us how great we look. We see the pounds come off (even though we are dying and suffering) and it is so bittersweet. I even burst in to tears once when someone asked me what I was doing and complimented me on my weight loss. I was so very very sick. My hemaglobbin was in the toilet (no pun intended) and then to have someone tell me how great I look when I was barely surviving just made me so sad. What's worse is how nice the opposite sex treats you when you are slimming down and sick (well everyone does really). As long as I live I will never forget the people in my life who treat me better when I am thin (and sick). They always go back to treating like a second class citizen when I have a few extra pounds on 😞 Having some weight on me is NOT a character flaw!! It is such a great comfort to me to know that I am not the only Crohny out there with weight issues. I just want to say to you all that I love you! You should love you! Don't be mean to your little 7 year old boy/girl inside. Be loving to yourself!! You matter! No one is better or worse than anyone else. We all deserve kindness, respect and love. Rock on my fellow sickies! 💖💖💖💖

I've never been small my entire life. Right now I am 5'7" and weigh 255 and I'm only 22. Ive had blood work checking my thyroid and my metabolism all normal but I just recently got diagnosed two months ago with ulcerative small intestine and crohns. I've been learning a lot in the past few months but what the Dr told me kinda put me at easy with my weight for now. She said that cause I can't absorb all the nutrients I take in my body goes into "starvation mode" and store fats. Hence the constant weight gain. I can't do many exercising due to also finding out I have arthritis (which my family history has degenerate arthritis my grandmother, mother and my father) and the pain and inflamation make it too difficult to work out (I also have a high demand job that I'm always on my feet and moving/lifting). I deal with the pain and inflammation, but after my diagnosis I was told that my arthritis is so bad because of that pesky c reactive protein. Make it through. Take it one day at a time. Stay strong. That's all I can do right now until I have all of my symptoms under control. Good luck everyone :)

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I've never been small my entire life. Right now I am 5'7" and weigh 255 and I'm only 22. Ive had blood work checking my thyroid and my metabolism all normal but I just recently got diagnosed two months ago with ulcerative small intestine and crohns. I've been learning a lot in the past few months but what the Dr told me kinda put me at easy with my weight for now. She said that cause I can't absorb all the nutrients I take in my body goes into "starvation mode" and store fats. Hence the constant weight gain. I can't do many exercising due to also finding out I have arthritis (which my family history has degenerate arthritis my grandmother, mother and my father) and the pain and inflamation make it too difficult to work out (I also have a high demand job that I'm always on my feet and moving/lifting). I deal with the pain and inflammation, but after my diagnosis I was told that my arthritis is so bad because of that pesky c reactive protein. Make it through. Take it one day at a time. Stay strong. That's all I can do right now until I have all of my symptoms under control. Good luck everyone :)

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I've never been small my entire life. Right now I am 5'7" and weigh 255 and I'm only 22. Ive had blood work checking my thyroid and my metabolism all normal but I just recently got diagnosed two months ago with ulcerative small intestine and crohns. I've been learning a lot in the past few months but what the Dr told me kinda put me at easy with my weight for now. She said that cause I can't absorb all the nutrients I take in my body goes into "starvation mode" and store fats. Hence the constant weight gain. I can't do many exercising due to also finding out I have arthritis (which my family history has degenerate arthritis my grandmother, mother and my father) and the pain and inflamation make it too difficult to work out (I also have a high demand job that I'm always on my feet and moving/lifting). I deal with the pain and inflammation, but after my diagnosis I was told that my arthritis is so bad because of that pesky c reactive protein. Make it through. Take it one day at a time. Stay strong. That's all I can do right now until I have all of my symptoms under control. Good luck everyone :)

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I am so glad to not be alone. There are many people that look at me and tell me I Can't have Crohn's. I have always struggled with my weight but since the diagnosis It seems to flex more then it use to so when I flare I wear Sweats because my jeans won't fix.
kelsey

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I blame the Humira personally. I have been on it 8 months and already my body has identified it and attacked it.

So glad i found this, now i dont feel alone! i have been trying to find some sort of diet to keep my weight down i've gained 20 pounds, im only 21 and i do not like being chubby:(  and even with exercise and watching what i eat i stay the same weight. Also does anyone else have achey pains in their lower back and hands (especially when its cold) ?? 

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I feel so much better having found this post. You all have made me think what I am doing wrong, thing is I am not doing wrong anymore and the weight is the side effect.
See i used to starve myself when i flared up food hurt so I didn't eat, i had 3 dif sized pants depending on what weight i was that week.
I was very skinny for a very long time but an unhealthy skinny till about 2 years ago. I ended up in a flare and in the hospital and got a sharp talking to, cuz i was low on everything including potassium. It's very dangerous staving yourself cuz you don't think of the vitamins your already depelting flaring up and since i wasn.t eating i wasn't replenishing them.Now I look pregnant and feel like a fat blob but i didn't go back to starving and i won't but that was the key.
Now i just gotta control my intake while I am flaring maybe a juice fast so i can keep the vitamins going.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

It is so nice to not feel alone. Thank you for starting this post. I had emergency surgery in December of 2010 for appendicitis and ended up with a bowel resection and a diagnosis of Crohn's. I have always been overweight and around a size 12 or 14 but pretty happy with my body image and kept active. After five rounds of steroids I am miserable. Every time I take the steroids I gain at least 10-15 lbs. So now I am between a size 16 and 18. My face is round and fat and my stomach is horrible. I also ended up with a hernia that was 6 inches long so one side of my stomach stuck way out. Ugh! It has been crazy. My vitamin D has been so low that I am on massive doses of that and now they tell me my potassium is low. Everything makes me tired as a lot of you know and these things just make it worse. I am waiting patiently to get off of this round of steroids and from now on I am going to say no to them. I am on Humira, Nexium, and Sythroid. Enough is enough! For as much good they do they make me feel so much worse and have horrible side effects for some. 

Best wishes to all!!!

I was diagnosed with Crohns in 2004, went through the ringer for treatment. lost 20 lbs (started at 140) had Remicade treatments and went into remission for 7 years.  Yay!  Recently I began having symptoms again with bleeding rectally, mucosy discharge and loss of appetite mainly because I don't like how I feel afterward.  So I go to the doctor for the first time yesterday, they check my weight and I haven't lost a pound.  I don't necessarily need to lose weight and folks would tell me I shouldn't.  I am generally healthy, walk and do some sort of yoga every day and currently weigh 140 at 5'6".  I think I could always lose 5 lbs off of my thighs. I guess it is the irony of my life (I have always had to manage my weight) .  If I eat a cookie I gain weight, now I don't eat much of anything and I don't lose. It's just frustrating.  I would have been the fat one in the concentration camp!  Urgg!  

But the bigger topic is that i just got blood work back and they tell me although my iron is really low, I am not anemic. I was the last time.  I guess these factors are all good things but it is bothering me that although I am bleeding, is this all in my head?   No weight loss or anemia.  Maybe it isn't Crohns?

I have always tried to eat high fiber for weight control but now that doesn't sound good but if I switch will I gain more weight!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Your post caught my attention, because sometimes I have wondered the same thing! When I was diagnosed I had never lost any weight due to Crohn's, which has a lot to do with when you're diagnosed, where your inflammation is, and how much nutrients your bowel is still capable of absorbing. I've found that when I wasn't feeling good, I would eat. Not fast food, sugary sweets, or fatty food, but bland carbs (crackers), that made me feel better.
You say that you have been watching what your eating and have been exercising, which is really great! Congratulations for having  that drive! I would suggest also getting lots of sleep. Sleep helps you lose weight, your body rest, and I find it's especially important for me because of Crohn's. I would check your medications and their side effects. Weight gain might be a side effect (check online). Then I would also talk with your doctor. They may be able to answer your questions and concerns, and shed some light on the problem.

Good Luck! It takes a lot of mental strength to stay fit when your body is not in the best healt!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

This happened to me too!  At the end of my last flare I was at least 20 lbs heavier than I am now.  I attribute it to eating habits when I'm sick, I tend to eat fewer vegetables and more bland foods (i.e. carbs). 

Also, I am far more active when I'm not sick.  A lot less sleeping and a lot more activity.

The only advice I can offer is to find the medicine that's right for you.  Get yourself healthy so you can eat healthy and have enough energy to exercise.  

Good  luck!  Crohnie love to you!

@CrohnieTweets

 Reply posted for crazyanniecroc.

Hey , I love the comment  you made about you being a loving person. Why?? Cause people fails to realize that true beauty lies within, you can be a thin model and be the ugliest person . Stay loving sweety... People ask me all the time how come you so fat and you don't eat ?? grrr I get so hurt but damn these steroids they don't know what we have to go through on top of the disease the meds make us fall apart...stay beautiful girl best wishes to you

 Reply posted for kristinnicole.

I meant children in the ads, not commercials.

 Reply posted for taw.

I look pregnant too.  I'm waiting for people to ask when I'm due.  My belly feels distended, like those poor little African channel in the charity commercials.  I'm on prednisone, too, for a month now, and maybe for a few more weeks now until I can get Remicade approved through my insurance.  I can't wait to be done!  No more moon face! 

Do those protein shakes make you full?  Jittery?   I am desperate to get some poundage off of me.  My stomach is so big, and now my hips and butt are growing, too.  Yikes.  I'm only 31 and don't want to go down this slippery slope.  Any advice?

I was diagnosed with crohns in November, prior to that I gained 30 pounds.  Now that I'm on entocort I'm scared I'll gain more. A post mentions the Paloe diet so I googled it, it suggests fresh fruits and veggies.  Isn't that bad for crohns?  Yet i've seen several people suggest on this forum.  Just trying to find the best way to lose weight and keep the disease under control.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I feel the same way.  I've had Crohn's for 10 years and the only time I was really skinny was when I was diagnosed.  I was down to about 110 lbs.  I'm 5'1" and about 140lbs.  I have been trying to lose weight once I got to remission and my weight came back on.  Its a loosing battle, I try to eat healthy and go to the gym but haven't been to the gym for quite a while.  I'm always too tired.  Haven't even walked my dog.  I just want to lay down all the time.  We have to stay positive and keep trying to work out!!!!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Here are afew factors that could be in play with your disease.

Stress, wrong foods, some times with Daria we eat more because our food doesn't have a chance to give the nutrients out to our bodys, watch what you eat try to eat smaller amounts more offten give your body smaller amounts to work with at a time.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I had a really hard time going to the gym due to fatigue and nausea. I found yoga to actually really help my crohns symptoms. I actually do it on my wii fit at home, so I'm close to the restroom if needed. Try yoga, maybe it will help. :)

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I was obese. In September of 09 I started a low calorie and low carb diet. In September of 10 I weighed 100 lbs less and am now considered "overweight" at 174 lbs (5'7" tall). During that time, my only exercise was 45 minutes of brisk walking 3 to 5 times a week. I found that was the best way to get the weight off for me. By safely restricting calories and carbs, my own body did most of the work so I did not wear myself out with hard core exercise. Now that I have all the excess weight off, I've found it easier to be more active, maintain my weight loss,  and consume a healthy Paleo based diet.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I was 105 in high school and college then jumped to 184 last year!  I didnt understand why and then my doctor suggested going Gluten Free.  He said I was not Celiac but that my Crohn's and Colitis (I have both) but that it could be affecting it.  So I went Gluten Free in January and now in October I weigh 132!!!!  And I just ran a 15K (I've never run before and this was my first race).  Going Gluten Free is horrible as I LOVE bread but it has completely changed my life and my blood levels are even normal for once!  Who know, try it!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Thank you so very much for this post.  I have been wondering how I could possibly be so fat while going to the bathroom 7 to 12 times a day???  Now this makes sense & I feel a little better.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I was a size 5 when I got diagnosed with crohns--that was back in 1995, and, I've been on prednisone ever since--that's my reason for my current weight of 208. I do manage to drop some pounds, usually about 10-15 lbs a week when I have a flair, bc the only thing I consume is gatorade and ensure. I think that your body hangs on to the fat cells in prep for the next flair. try not to let it get to you, just try to stay healthy

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have problems with weight too. I've been fat since I was put on prednisone for several months after I was dianosed at 8. I kept gaining (though not at the same rate) until high school. I have been in a near constant flare state since my senior year 3 years ago. I lost 20 lbs gained 15 back. I had gained 10 right before the flare so I'm now more than I was in HS.  

Being overweight doesn't matter to me as much as how the weight is distributed. In addition to my pregnant-looking stomach, I have very wide hips. My hips are from bone structure, but still it bothers me that I look like an obese person between my bellybutton and my creaky knees, and a "couple pounds overwight" person everywhere else.

 Reply posted for katya.

Try to remember that Alan is on this women's forum on behalf of his 17 year old daughter. who is a woman.

 Reply posted for alanschachter.

For Alan:
This particular forum is listed as " specifically for women, and women's issues"
please respect the environment.
Thank you

 Reply posted for Petlover.

My doc told me the same thing. malnutrition causes weight gain. Thank goodness I'm not the only one. I"m so happy I found this board. I've learned alot and the more I read the less alone I feel.

At my sickest I got down to a size 10 and since then I've yo-yo'ed between 14 and 18. I'm 5'3" and 213lbs. My husband actually likes me being a big girl but he wants me helathy too. too bad he got one and not the other. I'm only got out of the hospital a month or so ago and my doc is talking about some heavy duty meds in my future. I say if it makes me feel better I'll take whatever they throw at me as long as I can afford it.

I wish I was a size 10 again but more than that I want to be in remission again.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have had Crohn's for about 7 years and I too am heavy.  I asked my GI about it too and he said that he has patients of all sizes.  I asked how I could go potty 7 to 8 times a day and eat hardly anything becuase of fear of being sick and still be overweight.  Not really fair considering everything else we go through with this disease.  My doctor had no answers for me on the weight issue, but said not to worry.  I have been in remission and have gained some weight back, but I am still pretty much the same.  I have become a health nut, even doing some homeopathic meds and organic foods and I am still overweight, but I am very healthy.  All my tests are great.  My heart is great, my cholesterol is good, good lungs...just bad colon. 

The positive side is that if I was skinny to begin with I would have probably died with the severity of my Crohn's for the first two years after being diagnosed.  I did lose about 45 pounds during the extremely sick time and was able to recover quickly because I still had a good amount of weight on me.  My husband loves me for who I am and thinks I am beautiful, so I don't mind the weight.  I will continue to try and be healthy and control this disease as much as possible.  Thank you for your topic!!!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Wow! I am so glad I found this board. I have been heavy all my life and was diagnosed with Crohns in 2006. My doctor believes that I have probably had it since I was about 12-13, because that is when my problems began. I have not been able to loose a lot of weight without making myself extremely ill. I am almost 43yrs old, 5'4", and weight 270 lbs. I have Crohn's, Asthma, Type II Diabetes, Polysystic Ovarian syndrome, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, and Migraines. I have been tested for thyroid problems and they came back fine. I had to have a small bowel resection in 2009 and I currently take Imuran and Cymzia for my crohns. I have been able to come off my meds for diabetes, HBP, and cholesterol. However, I have had problems with widespread pain. My bones, muscles, and joints constantly hurt and I stay really tired. I still can't lose more than a few pounds. My weight goes up and down by about 20 lbs max.

Fran

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Well i can tell you i am fat. I weigh about 270 pounds. I exercise i stay active. I wish i could eat more fruits and veggies but they dont agree with me. I have been a big since i was a child. was placed on lots of steriods when i was younger that made me gain weight. I was loosing weight but that was when i first started getting sick and did not know what was going on. I am on remicade now and i stay at about 270 even though i never really got below 200 pounds even when i was my sickest. I still have my battles daily. But i have come to think i am still a loving person. it does not matter if i am fat.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

wow I just have to say that you are totally awesome! Looks like you really touched a nerve with this one. I am rocking the scale at 212 currently and have had three major surgeries including small bowel resection, stomach catheters,2 perianal rectal abscesses, fistulas, 4 picc lines, drugs galore and the only time I have successfully been the weight I wanted was in high school. I was 135 my junior year. That was 11 years ago. I achieved that weight long before I was diagnosed. It was also the same year I first exhibited symptoms of small bowel crohns. I had lost 65 pounds when I was very sick and gained 20 pounds every threee months for a year after the resection. I think it was  a combo of not being able to exercise right, getting better, and being able to eat so many wonderful things. If I were you try to maintain a steady weight and dont sweat it too much. You may need the extra weight in the future. I would rather be little bigger than emaciated. I wish you the best!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Thank you thank you thank you all!!!

I am heavy and wasn't until I started to get really sick as I approached my late 20s.  I'm 80 lbs heavier than I was then. One of my doctors suspected that it has something to do with my body trying to pack on the pounds as I started to have less nutritional absorption.  My body thought it was starving so it went into survival mode and put on the weight for the famine.  Caveman/woman stuff.  Nice to know I would have survived just fine during cave times.  Not so useful now.  Certainly more difficult to shop with. 

I have noticed that when I'm not in a flare and feel better my weight does go down. Slightly, but it is better than gaining. Of course I feel like being more active then too.  Not enough information to make a complete conclusion.  Time will tell. 

Weight is the least of my worries right now but it is nice to know others are experiencing the same thing.  As a Celiac too I have gotten that same response, all Celiacs are skinny.  Yeah, um, NO!

 Reply posted for whisperkitty.

i had this problem. i was down 20lbs for so long that when i could finally eat i went NUTS, now i need to lose 10 to get back to my normal weight. however, i have lots of arthritis so its a b*tch to exercise, i feel like a lazy lump of ouch.

 Reply posted for JCliff.

@JCliff

Your moon face and bloating could very well be from the Entocort, as it is absorbed systemically.

In the original safety trial for Entocort EC, moon face incidence was ~10 times higher for Entocort EC 9 mg daily than placebo, and ankle swelling was ~6 times higher than placebo.

Educate your physician next time you see him, as he may be confusing budesonide with some of the enteric-coated 5-ASA products.

Source: Entocort prescribing information

 Reply posted for whisperkitty.

I can definately relate! I've had UC for almost 4 years now and I have already progressed enough where I might need surgery! I've always had problems with my weight, I'm also only 5'0 tall so a little weight gain makes a huge difference! 

Being put on and off prednisone gives me that moon face and I now know I have to watch what I each when I'm on it or else i'll gain a lot of weight!

In the past few months I've went from a flare straight into an infection called C-diff and back into a flare again. I think the antibiotics or the fact that I had an infection messed with my appetite, but in about 3 to 4 weeks I lost 25lbs...

I still don't understand how I can go to the bathroom so many times a day and not lose weight. There are also the restrictions to dieting, like fruits and veggies and SALAD! Salad is the ultimate diet go to food, HA not if you have UC!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Same boat! It's no fun. I have colitis and a really bad flare last year that landed me in the hospital for a week. I lost 18 pounds and guess what? It's back with its friends having a party around my hips and belly. I was so excited when I could eat again after 4 months of total recovery that I just ate everything in sight. lol. I'm getting married this year and would love to lose about 10 pounds to get back to my pre-hospital weight but I'm so afraid to diet because of the UC!! Eating too many veggies and fruits always sets me off so my dieting options are limited. I'm thinking about trying atkins for just a short bit but I don't know how great of an idea that is with UC.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Hi, I found out I had Crohns in Sept 2009.  I am of average weight and I did loose weight (about 30lbs) when I got really sick before the doctors figured out what I had.  After all the steroids and two surgeries I looked prego.  I felt bloated all the time and looked it too.  I could not loose weight due to the fact that I had no engery and had lost all my muscles.  I was weak.  BUT for the past month I have been drinking proten (sp) shakes called Body by Vi.  I love them.  I drink one for breakfast and one for lunch and then a normal supper.  I have lost 13lbs so far and also inches from everywhere and I feel great.  I challange everyone to try these shakes.  They work and we need the proten. 

 

Good luck to all.

 Reply posted for vaudry.

Hopefully this will make you laugh.  I have had Crohns for 22 years.  I am now 32.  I am of average weight and height, but a couple of years ago around X-mas time, my SIL who is an RN made a comment that irritated me at the time.  She said, "I don't know why they always say that people with Crohns are skinny.  All of the people that I know who have Crohns aren't skinny."  She is well aware that I have Crohns so I was included in her comment.  Thanks a lot. 

Anyway, we can be happy that we are healthy enough to be able to eat and gain some nutrients. It sounds like you are doing the right things like eating right and exercising.  I agree with the others who said that you should rule out other medical reasons such as a thyroid problem.  My doc. always says that just bc you have Crohns doesn't mean that all your health problems are due to it. 

GOOD LUCK!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have colitis and a similiar story...I too have packed on the pounds the last couple of years especially..with the diarhhea I wonder how I could be gaining...I look like I'm pregnant alot of the time...just bloating...was taking Asacol, prevacid, ranitidine, atenolol, and paxil...over the last 6 months the asacol switched to lialda...I just turned 50 and figure its age and the fact that I have no energy or stamina to be as active as I once was...I hate the way I look as well...

when I was first diagnosed I had lost alot but after about six months on meds it started coming back.......

 Reply posted for psjustme.

I lost 50 pounds in 2005 and then in 2008 I was diagnosed with crohn's. I am on asacol ( I was just increased to 3 tablets 3 times daily). I also take protonix every day. I have zofran, phenergan and lomotil if I need it. I have gained 45 pounds in the 6 months after being diagnosed because the GI doctor put me on prednisone 40mg daily for 6 months. I also injured my leg with a crushing type injury in 2008 and the nerves are just started coming back to life. So, I have not been able to work out because of the pain. My doctor put me on lyrica for the nerve pain. And then my GI doctor started my on entocort because of a big flare up I had and I had all the same side effects that you have with prednisone. I watch what I eat but I am still gaining weight. There is times that my stomach is so distended that I look 9 months pregnant with triplets. I have had so many tests and blood work in the last month I feel like a pen cushion. All the tests came back normal. I don't know what to do anymore. I feel like giving up. I HATE the way I feel and look. 

 Reply posted for joytotheworld.

I was overweight most of my life. Had my stomach stapled in 2004. Started having major pain, gas, bloating, and more vomitting than expected with this procedure about 1 1/2 years later. Can't eat fresh fruit, most veggies, very little meat, or much of anything else. My GI thinks I had mild Crohn's most of my life, just managed with diet. Now nothing I try seems to help. I vary between diarrhea and constipation. I think about reversing the stapling, but I don't know that it would change anything now. This really sucks. Now I'm getting the muscle & joint pain all the time.

It probably would have gotten worse over time anyway, but I have to wonder. Even though I was 110 heavier I was fairly healthy. Do lots of research before you decide on the surgery.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Man, I hear you!  I have been overweight all my life and as of the last 3 years have really packed on the pounds.  I was diagnosed with Hashimoto thyroiditis which has not helped in the area of weight loss.  Most of my docs are recommending the lap band procedure, but I am kinda leery of doing this.  I wish you all well in your UC or Crohn's journey.  Definitely learn to accept your body and yourself no matter what situation you are in at present.  

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have ulcerative colitis and I can understand your pain. When I first got sick I lost 20 lbs but since I started my medication I have gained weight and can not seem to lose it.  I hate it so much but at the same time I am just so thankful that I feel better.  I am glad you wrote about this cause I was thinking I was the only one..good luck:)

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Crohn's and weight.  DON"T buy into Dr's and their narrow understanding of IBD.  I am 35 and have been overweight since 15.  It took me over two years to be diagnosed with IBD because my first GI believed A) siblings do not have the same disease B)Large but FIT women cannot be ill with IBD and C) If you have IBD you only LOSE weight.
EVERYONE's path is different.  at times I have lost weight and gained weight according to the disease pattern, medications <steroids make me gain every time> and what I can consume for food due to activity of disease.  I have had increasingly severe IBD for over a decade now, and I am firmly convinced that my body has been starving and has learned to hang on to every calorie I consume.Symptoms vary but include: Pain, fatigue, anemia, nausea, vomiting, bleeding, incontinence, exhaustion, bruising, insomnia,  living my life around a very restrictive diet and how close/convenient are the restrooms..risk of secondary infections...  What is normal?  How do we have "standard calorie intake/ regular exercise?".  You have to learn to love yourself even when you hate your body/ disease.  DON'T define your health by your weight!  MY ADVICE:  eat as healthy as you can, be as active as you can, keep your mental, spiritual health as healthy as possible, have a team of health providers that support, encourage and understand as best they can.  AND GET RID OF Doctors that don't understand you or agree with your choices.  There are other Dr's out there!  It has taken me years to build a team, but I love them, and they work together.  They all understand my weight <100 lbs less would be ideal> is not perfect - but it is part of the BIG PICTURE  of my health, not the  be-all, end-all of my health.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I have had the same problem.  I have been overweight since I was a child.  Even though I am very sick and don't eat much I still stay overweight.  I have lost 30 lbs in the last six months or so (but still about 20 lbs overweight).  Usually when after I lose, then when I am feeling better I gain back.  Lately though I can't feel better.  My doctor likes for me to be overweight.  That way when I get really sick and lose, I don't get so sickly and wasted away looking.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I think it's all the meds!!!!  I fluctuate between 10-20 pounds yearly- I'm either 10 lbs overweight or 5 lbs underweight and look sick, depending upon the meds I'm on or if I'm in a flare.  I was on prednisone for almost a YEAR last year and gained 30 lbs.... took awhile to lose it then went on entocort and am currently on that.  I feel bloated and "moon-facey" AGAIN and I'm 10 pounds heavier but my doc says there's no way it's from the entocort because it is absorbed in the colon only.... I'm like then what the heck is going on!!!!!  Ugh I'm so glad you all posted, it's like I could start a clothing store, I have clothes for every size in my closet because I fluctuate so much!! 
I will say though that walking helps MENTALLY, even if it doesnt help lose the weight, I can feel like I'm at least doing something....

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Wow!  I'm going through this too!  I've been on Humira for almost a year now...during that time, I've gained like 30 pounds, so I'm about 20 pounds overweight.  My Crohn's is pretty much controlled now, but I'm still exhausted all the time & have joint pain...so it's really painful to exercise & hard to even get motivated.  I went to a nutritionist a couple of weeks ago & got some recommendations about what to eat to help with the weight loss, but it's hard to stick to that, especially when I don't feel great... but I am trying to eat better.
It's soooo frustrating! 

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

I was so glad to see your post!!! I have Crohns and just recently had to borrow some "fat clothes" from a friend of mine. Alot of mine is steroid induced and I have lost most of the fluid. I am scared to go on any type of "diet"!!!! I started walking last week and I am trying to cut my sugar and carb intake. I dont really want to do one of those crazy diets and make myself sick but after reading tons of posts on here, low carb and low sugar are what I am comfortable with trying. I am typically a size 8 and I have my own "fat clothes" which are a size 10....but they are obscene right now!!! I wearing 12s and 14s and hope to get back down to my normal size. My biggest fear, however, is that I will start losing weight and it wont stop!!! Would love to hear anyones experience or advise!!!!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Seriously same boat

My BFF gave me her 'fat' shorts this summer and shes in a 6 for the first time in her life!

When do I get to lose weight!!!!

Trying to walk, run, do cardio - but really the fatique is UNREAL! and makes me look like I'm lazy as my hubby body builder goes off  to the gym.  Ugh

So frustrating,
I'm going to start yoga, meditaion and find a 5k race every month.  I must lose 20 lbs, myself to be really happy.

I hear you!!!!!  Good luck!

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Like anyone with a weight problem, you could have thyroid problems and you should have your doctor check for it but you could also have an eating problem and just not be aware of it.

I don't eat when I am very sick, of course, but when I'm just a little sick, I generally eat more. I probably don't absorb all of it but I just get so frustrated and depressed by being sick again that I want to eat because I know that it will make me feel a little better.

 Reply posted for jennymattk.

Sounds like you may have hypothyroidism (low thyroid ).  I had a bad flare a few years back and as my health returned I regained the weight I lost plus some.  I had those symptoms as well.  Including feeling cold all the time and irritability.  And I would have weeping spells too.  My doctor suggested I have my thyroid checked.  It was really low.  As far as losing weight, when your low, its really impossible.  Nothing you can do will affect the weight you gain.  If you have just one calorie, you will gain more weight than the average person.  Probably the only reason you lost 20 lbs when you had a flare.  A lot less calorie intake at the time of your flare.  And it didnt help me out much that, like when I am on Prednisone, I am extremely hungry all the time.  Hope this helps.
P.S.  also, keep in mind that the "normal range" is broad.  So even if you are on the lower side of that range it could possibly be too low for you.  I also noticed that my hair became more brittle and dense as well.  I believe that my thyroid was low long before I had this flare but because the doctors I went to don't specialize in this area (mostly ob/gyns ran the tests after I gave birth because I was experiencing some of the symptoms) they just assume that if you land on the low end of spectrum that you are just fine.