From Memory to Meaning: How Mirae Is Changing the Way We Manage IBD

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026Leave a comment

This is a sponsored blog post; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) means constantly reading the signals your body is sending you. What you eat, how you sleep, your stress level, your energy, and even the seemingly small changes in your routine can influence how you feel. After more than 21 years with Crohn’s disease, I’ve learned that this internal conversation never completely goes away, even during remission.

The challenge is that when symptoms become part of everyday life, gradual changes can be surprisingly difficult to recognize. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with IBD for decades, knowing your personal baseline can be one of the most valuable tools in managing your disease.

That’s where the Mirae Health app comes in. Rather than relying on memory or trying to piece together months of symptoms and lifestyle patterns before an appointment, Mirae helps patients see their own patterns and recognize when something starts to shift. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s, we hear from Mirae’s founders about the inspiration behind the app and why understanding the connection between our daily lives and how we feel could change the way we approach IBD care.

Mirae’s founding designer, Sayoko Yoshida, chose to use a bear because they wanted something that felt:

Warm and inviting
Steady and dependable
Protective
Human and personal

The Mirae team specifically didn’t want the app to feel like a cold clinical dashboard or an overly cheerful “health app” mascot. They wanted the bear to represent a reassuring guide, something that helps people living with IBD understand what’s happening and feel supported as they navigate their care.

The inspiration behind Mirae

Mirae’s three founders, James Finucane, David Clifton, and Anuj Patel, have spent their careers using technology to improve access to healthcare. For Anuj, Mirae’s CEO, the mission is also personal. His father was a GI clinician in rural upstate New York, where he saw firsthand how critical and unequal access to specialty care can be, something Anuj recently wrote about on Mirae’s blog.

“It was very clear how unique and how critical having high-quality specialty GI care in a rural market helped patients and how unequal access to care across the US is,” Anuj explains. “It was important that we use technology to help patients that are at the intersection of a chronic, acute and complex condition, of which Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis were the obvious fit.”

Mirae grew from a shared desire to use technology to solve two connected challenges: the burden patients carry to track and remember their disease, and the limited snapshot clinicians often have when making important care decisions.

The “Aha” Moment

The realization wasn’t about one patient story, but where the most valuable information lives. In IBD, important signals are often small and daily: a change in urgency, creeping fatigue, or escalated symptoms when eating certain foods.

I know when my symptoms increase, I can become hypervigilant, quickly jumping to the worst-case scenario. Much of that internal battle happens privately, between me and the bathroom walls or in conversations with my mom and husband.

Yet very little of it makes it into the medical record. Instead, months of experiences get distilled into a few sentences during a clinic visit, filtered through stress and imperfect memory.

“The gap in IBD care is not a lack of good doctors or good treatments. It is that the richest data about the disease is generated by patients outside of a lab, colonoscopy or doctor’s visit and then mostly lost,” says Anuj. “Building something to capture that gently and carry it into the clinic in a useful form felt like the most obvious unsolved problem in the field.”

Anuj Patel, co-founder and CEO of Mirae Health

The Missing Puzzle Piece in Patient Management

As Mirae’s creators examined the gaps in IBD care, they saw one major problem: there was no single place connecting the pieces.

“People track symptoms in a Notes app, photos of meals on their phone, questions on scraps of paper, and half of it in their head. Most existing tools were built like diaries. They demand daily discipline, which is exactly what you do not have during a flare, so people abandon them when things get hard, when the data matters most. Most importantly, nothing connected the tracking to actual care,” says Anuj.

You can track symptoms for a year, but if your gastroenterologist never sees that information, it’s pointless. And when living with a chronic illness already feels like a full-time job, adding more work to disease management is the last thing those with IBD need.

Mirae aims to change that.

“We wanted to make day-to-day management delightful and to use the AI models developed by our team to better understand disease progression and connect that information to clinicians that can make more informed decisions on a patient’s care.”

Answering the Call as Patients Feel Overwhelmed and Unheard

Feeling unheard usually isn’t about clinicians not caring. It’s about trying to fit months of lived experience into a 15-minute appointment, with the patient expected to remember and explain it all on the spot. That’s an unfair expectation of someone who is unwell.

“Mirae is designed to carry that burden instead. The app does the organizing, the remembering, and the summarizing, so the patient does not have to perform their own case in the room,” says Anuj. “We kept the language plain, the daily effort small, and made forgetting or skipping days completely fine. The goal is that when you walk into a doctor’s visit, your patient experience is clearly summarized for a clinician, allowing the visit to be more humane and genuine, while helping clinicians make more informed treatment decisions.”

At home, Mirae is designed to make living with IBD feel a little lighter. You can think of it as a quiet companion while navigating an often-isolating disease.

“In the clinic, we want people to feel prepared and taken seriously. There is a real difference between walking in trying to remember everything and walking in with a clear summary of the last three months in your hand. One feels like being tested. The other feels like being a partner in your own care,” says Anuj.

A Step Toward Personalized Medicine and Treatment Options

Personalized medicine in IBD starts with recognizing that Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are not one-size-fits-all. Mirae’s technology looks for patterns that can help identify patient subgroups and better understand how individuals respond to treatment.

“Knowing how patients in each subgroup respond to treatment or how symptoms manifest can help a care team recognize earlier when someone may need attention, rather than waiting for the next scheduled visit,” explains Anuj. “It can also make treatment discussions more grounded, starting with months of real-world data and experience that our tools can translate into clinical insight, rather than a few minutes of recollection.”

Mirae builds that picture from what patients choose to share over time: symptoms such as pain, urgency, bowel habits, fatigue, and energy; medications and how they’re tolerating them; lifestyle factors like sleep, food and activity; and free-form notes and questions captured in the moment.

The app looks for what has changed and what you’ve flagged. Mirae suggests; you decide. The goal is to make sure the things that matter most to you are at the center of the conversation. Mirae supports clinical judgment; it doesn’t replace it.

The App Is Free—How?

Living with IBD is expensive. Between medications, procedures, time off work, and everything in between, patients already carry a significant financial burden. Mirae’s creators didn’t want to add a subscription fee or rely on ads that could compromise the trust they’re building with patients.

“At a high level, our model works with the healthcare system for payment when patients enter remission sooner. Health systems and care programs benefit when patients arrive prepared, problems are caught earlier, and care between visits is more visible. All of this can help patients get on the right medication sooner while reducing future medical costs, such as surgery or ER visits,” says Anuj.

Making Patients Active Participants in Their Care

The biggest barrier to participating in our own care isn’t motivation, it’s preparation and organization. Too often, we leave appointments remembering the question we forgot to ask or downplaying what daily life with IBD feels like because suffering in silence has become our normal.

“Throughout the weeks between visits, the app makes it easy to capture questions and concerns as they come up, instead of hoping to remember them later. Before an appointment, it helps pull everything together into pre-visit notes: what has changed, what’s worrying you, what you want to ask, and what you want out of the visit,” explains Anuj.

When you arrive with that information in hand, the dynamic shifts. You’re no longer a passive recipient. You have an agenda backed by your own experience. That’s active participation in your care.

The Power of Pre-Visit Notes

One of my favorite Mirae features is the pre-visit process. You can capture observations about your health, answer targeted questions, and, most importantly, identify your biggest concerns going into the appointment.

Mirae then turns that information into a plain-language summary: what has changed, what has stayed stable, what’s worrying you, and the questions you want to address.

“You can edit anything, remove what doesn’t matter to you, and rank what you most want to discuss. You stay in control of what is shared. When you’re done, you have a short, clear document you can bring into the room or share ahead of the visit,” says Anuj.

An educated patient is an empowered patient. Taking a few minutes to prepare can help both you and your provider make the most of limited appointment time, something especially valuable when we’re juggling multiple specialists.

“The core principle is to change from your own baseline. A symptom level that is normal for one person may be a red flag for another, so relevance is always personal,” says Anuj. “The app looks at what is new since the last visit, what has been trending in either direction, or what has been persistent. Mirae also gives weight to things you have marked as important, medication changes and how they have gone, and anything that has come up repeatedly in your notes. Repetition is a strong signal that something deserves airtime.”

Input from Medical Providers and IBD Patients

Mirae was shaped with input from IBD clinicians, including advisors at Oxford and across the United States.

A consistent theme was where the appointment begins. Too often, the first minutes are spent reconstructing months of symptoms from memory. With organized pre-visit notes, that work is done, allowing more time for meaningful discussion, decisions, and care planning.

“Clinicians have also been clear with us about what they do not want: another screen, more unfiltered data, or anything that adds time. That feedback pushed us to keep the clinician-facing side short and structured. As the pilot progresses, we will let the results speak rather than getting ahead of them,” explains Anuj.

Dr. Simon Travis, Professor of Clinical Gastroenterology at the University of Oxford, sees Mirae as ‘stepping stones across a river, sometimes widely apart.’

He says, “Mirae acts as a bridge. It provides depth, credible advice, links to the evidence, informed comment, and guidance. It complements specialist advice by addressing complex factors such as fatigue or diet in detail, way beyond what is possible to cover during a consultation.”

Dr. Alissa Walsh, a Gastroenterologist at the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and Nuffield Health, The Manor Hospital, Oxford, agreed to support Mirae because she believes people living with IBD deserve to be active partners in their own care, not passive recipients to it.

“Too often patients feel they’re navigating this condition alone, without the information or confidence to ask the right questions,” she says. “Mirae’s work has the potential to change that — empowering patients at every stage of their journey and, ultimately, improving the quality of care they receive.”

As an IBD patient advocate, I’m one of many who have helped to provide feedback and guidance through the app development process. Having patient and provider input is paramount to making sure the app works for us in real time. Multiple members of the Mirae team also have IBD themselves.

“It is hard to advocate for yourself on subjective terms such as “I feel like things have been worse lately.” It is much easier when you can say things have been different for six weeks, here is the pattern, and here is what I would like us to consider,” says Anuj. “When patients see their experience taken seriously, written down, reflected back, and brought into the clinical conversation, it reinforces that their observations matter.”

What Sets Mirae Apart from Other IBD Apps?

Most health apps are islands: you track diligently, but the information rarely goes anywhere. Mirae aims to close that gap in three ways:

Connected to clinical care. Mirae is designed to work with a patient’s existing care team. The information gathered is intended to inform care rather than sit in a silo. Its first deployment is within a large academic medical center.
Built specifically for IBD. This isn’t a general wellness app with an IBD mode. Mirae was incubated at Oxford’s Computational Health Informatics Lab and shaped by IBD specialists and patients.
Designed for both patients and clinicians. Rather than making patients pay for premium features or clinicians pay costly software fees, Mirae is built to serve both sides of the care relationship.

The Goal Five Years from Now

Looking ahead, Mirae’s creators hope the platform will build something that doesn’t currently exist at scale: a rich repository of patient-reported symptoms connected to clinical data that could improve treatment recommendations and eventually inform drug discovery. Longer term, they envision expanding beyond IBD to other autoimmune conditions, where many of the same challenges exist.

“The goal for us is in five years, is that “Maya”, a newly diagnosed Crohn’s patient, is able to use our platform to have a trusted companion that helps her understand her condition and, alongside her gastroenterologist, precisely identify the specific type of Crohn’s she has, find the best therapy for that type, and get on her way to remission and stay there.”

For Mirae’s founders, success means making that experience the norm, so Crohn’s becomes one part of Maya’s identity, not something that consumes her life.

Final Thoughts

Mirae’s goal is to end the era of memory-based appointments where patients carry months of their lives in their heads, then try to summarize it all under pressure. For gastroenterologists, it’s a similar challenge: extracting that information while balancing an enormous amount of clinical knowledge.

Mirae is designed to fit into patients’ lives, especially during the hard weeks, helping turn real observations into a clearer picture of their health and a more personalized care plan.

“We hope Mirae shifts some weight off patients’ shoulders. Managing IBD will never be effortless, but the administrative and cognitive load, the tracking, remembering, and preparing is something technology can genuinely carry. If patients spend less energy managing their disease and more living their lives, we have done our job.”

Download Mirae for FREE! Learn more about Mirae here.

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Cyclospora and IBD: Should You Still Be Avoiding Fresh Produce?

August 17, 2026Leave a comment

Since mid-July, I haven’t had a salad with lettuce, fresh berries, grapes, you name it. It may seem extreme, but as someone living with Crohn’s disease, I’ve been fearful of contracting Cyclospora.

It’s been making headlines for weeks, but for those who may not know, Cyclospora is a foodborne parasite that causes an intestinal infection. Symptoms can include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, fatigue, gas, nausea, and loss of appetite.

For someone with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the tricky part is that Cyclospora can mimic an IBD flare because the symptoms can be so similar. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s, we’re taking a deep dive into the current Cyclospora concerns and hearing from three well-respected gastroenterologists about how our community should be navigating them.

What the Community Has to Say

I shared a poll on my Instagram (@natalieannhayden) asking my followers: “If you have IBD, are you still refraining from eating lettuce, berries, cilantro, jalapeños, etc. due to Cyclospora?”

Of the 421 people who responded, 47% said “yes,” 33% said “no,” and 20% said they “never stopped.”

Hearing this didn’t entirely surprise me. When I went out to dinner with my family over the weekend, I was shocked to see almost every table with people eating salad. It made me wonder: Am I being too extreme? Should I start eating my normal diet again?

I should note that I’ve continued cooking vegetables for my family, and we’ve still been eating apples, bananas, and melons. But I’ve personally been avoiding many of the foods that have made me nervous during this outbreak.

And judging from the responses I received, I’m certainly not alone.

Madison: “Ugh, I so badly want a Jimmy John’s sandwich after pregnancy, but I’m so worried to get Cyclospora and flare.”

Amanda: “I never stopped eating fresh produce because I get my food from the farmers market.”

Katie: “Never been so happy for my garden than this summer!”

Jaclyn: “I think I may start eating the Little Leaf brand lettuce again. They have publicly stated they are not affected and have shared their production process. It’s been months of not eating produce, so I’m reallllly missing it. Also, I need my fiber!!”

Phoebe: “I’m only buying from my local farmers market, and I took my family berry picking to be safe.”

Sarah: “Only pre-bagged shredded lettuce, but I’ll probably give up on refraining from eating it, as I’m not seeing as many patients with it now.”

Lyndsie: “They told me at chemo prep to avoid the diarrhea lettuce…but I did just have Chipotle last night (which uses cilantro and jalapeño) …so wish me luck!”

Rachel: “It’s killing me! I really want my fruit and lettuce back! However, I don’t want to risk anything like a flare or the potential to flare due to an illness. It is such a scare when you have been in remission for a while!”

Madison: “I have just started to eat lettuce and blueberries again since early June. It’s scary for sure! From what I’ve read, they identified the source of the lettuce issue, and I just had berries yesterday for the first time in almost two months. We’re washing them very well and hoping for the best.”

Laura: “Only eating fresh veggies from my garden and currently sticking to melon and bananas for fresh fruit mostly.”

From the Experts

I wanted to hear from gastroenterologists I know and trust. I asked them how they’re guiding their IBD patients through these uncertain waters and what advice they have for our community about whether we still need to be mindful of what we put on our plates.

“The outbreak of Cyclospora appears related to certain produce, for example, lettuce. While the distribution of these foods seems to be better understood, it’s still reasonable to take precautions in the preparation of certain foods,” says Dr. Miguel Regueiro, MD, Chief of the Digestive Disease Institute (DDI) at Cleveland Clinic. “General guidance for anyone with fresh produce is to wash vegetables and fruit thoroughly with water and practice hand washing with soap and water before and after handling. This is true for IBD patients and those without IBD.”

Dr. Matthew Ciorba, MD, Director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Washington University School of Medicine, agrees, saying it isn’t necessary for most people—including most people with IBD—to give up entire categories of foods such as all lettuce, berries, jalapeños, avocados, cilantro, or parsley.

“What makes more sense is to pay attention to the specific products named in an active outbreak or recall, avoid those while the outbreak is ongoing, and relax once the implicated product is off the market. Cyclospora is also seasonal in the U.S. (roughly late spring through summer), so the highest-alert window is limited,” he explains.

One important nuance for our community: if you’re taking immune-suppressing medications, including biologics, immunomodulators, or steroids, it may be reasonable to take additional precautions during an active outbreak. That could mean leaning toward cooked or peeled produce rather than raw leafy greens and soft fruits. This is a personal decision and one worth discussing with your own GI doctor, since recommendations can depend on your medications and individual circumstances.

“Washing helps, but it is not a guarantee. Cyclospora oocysts are tiny and sticky, and they resist the chlorine-based rinses used commercially,” Dr. Ciorba says. “So, scrubbing your salad at home reduces the load but can’t be counted on to make contaminated produce ‘totally safe.’ Cooking is far more reliable than rinsing. So ‘wash thoroughly’ is good advice, just not a force field.”

How to Tell Cyclosporiasis Apart from an IBD Flare

Cyclosporiasis typically causes watery, sometimes explosive, frequent diarrhea, cramping, bloating, nausea, poor appetite, fatigue, weight loss, and sometimes low-grade fever, all symptoms that can be mistaken for an IBD flare.

“Two clues point toward Cyclospora rather than IBD: symptoms often start about a week after an exposure, and they tend to wax and wane, dragging on for weeks if untreated. The biggest red flag is diarrhea that doesn’t improve when you and your doctor step up your usual IBD treatment. That’s a signal to test for something else,” says Dr. Ciorba.

Cyclospora is not picked up by every routine stool test or GI panel. Your doctor may need to order a Cyclospora-specific test. Because the parasite can be shed intermittently, more than one stool sample collected a couple of days apart may improve the chances of detecting it.

“We are now doing this for our patients, and patients can ask their doctors if they plan to order the special stool study,” says Dr. Ciorba.

The practical takeaway: new or persistent diarrhea during outbreak season, especially if it isn’t responding to your usual flare plan, is a reason to talk with your doctor about Cyclospora testing rather than automatically assuming it’s your IBD.

Other Precautions and Warning Signs Worth Knowing

The good news is that when Cyclospora is identified, it is treatable. The standard treatment is an antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, with alternatives available for people with a sulfa allergy.

Dr. Uma Mahadevan, MD, Director of the Colitis and Crohn’s Disease Center at the University of California, San Francisco, says fortunately, California has not been hit as hard as some other states.

Dr. Mahadevan recommends:

Avoiding recalled products, such as implicated iceberg lettuce.
If you are significantly immunosuppressed, such as during a flare or while taking steroids plus a biologic, consider cooked vegetables over raw salads.
Being particularly careful with raw salads at restaurants.
Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water and scrubbing produce such as melons.

“For pregnant women, I would use the same cautions as listed above. I would not recommend overly restricting diet. It seems like there is a greater risk in the Great Lakes/Midwest area, so those patients should be more careful. It is a tough one as the tracking of the infections is not great,” Dr. Mahadevan says.

The Bottom Line

If you’re living with IBD, it’s completely understandable to feel uneasy when an intestinal infection like Cyclospora is making headlines. When you’ve worked hard to manage your disease or achieve remission, the last thing you want is an infection that could potentially trigger symptoms or leave you wondering whether you’re experiencing an infection or an IBD flare.

But the experts I spoke with agree on an important point: this doesn’t mean you need to eliminate fresh fruits and vegetables from your diet. Instead, stay informed about active outbreaks and recalls, practice careful food preparation and handwashing, and talk with your gastroenterologist if you develop persistent diarrhea, cramping, or other symptoms that could indicate either an infection or a flare.

For me, that may mean slowly becoming a little less fearful of the produce aisle. I’m not sure I’m ready to dive headfirst into a giant salad just yet, but knowing what the experts are recommending makes me feel much more comfortable making informed decisions rather than letting fear dictate what I eat.

As with so many things in life with IBD, knowledge is power and finding that balance between being cautious and still living your life matters, too.

Hydration and IBD: Why Summer Can Be More Complicated Than It Looks

May 18, 2026Leave a comment

As temperatures rise, so can the challenges of living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. For people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), summer heat (and heat in general) isn’t just uncomfortable, it can amplify symptoms, increase dehydration risk, worsen fatigue, and make everyday activities feel far more difficult.

And while everyone is told to “drink more water” during the summer, hydration with IBD is often much more complicated than that. Living in St. Louis, I’m no stranger to extreme heat and humidity!

Between diarrhea, ostomies, inflammation, medication side effects, and nutrient absorption issues, those of us with IBD are already operating at a hydration deficit before stepping outside into 90-degree-plus weather. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s a look at what patients need to know about staying safe, hydrated, and feeling their best during the hottest months of the year.

Why People With IBD Are More Vulnerable to Dehydration

Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluids than it takes in. While that can happen to anyone in the heat, people with IBD face unique risks.

Some of the biggest contributors include:

Frequent diarrhea
Active inflammation
Vomiting
Excessive sweating
Reduced appetite
Short bowel syndrome
Ileostomies or J-pouches
Certain medications
Avoiding fluids due to bathroom anxiety

For patients with Crohn’s disease affecting the small intestine, the body may also struggle to absorb fluids and electrolytes efficiently. Meanwhile, people living with an ostomy can lose significant amounts of sodium and fluids throughout the day, especially in extreme heat. The result? We can become dehydrated faster than we realize.

Signs of Dehydration Can Look Different in IBD

Many symptoms of dehydration overlap with symptoms those with IBD already experience regularly, which can make it harder to recognize when something is wrong.

Common warning signs include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fatigue or weakness
Headaches
Muscle cramps
Dry mouth
Rapid heartbeat
Brain fog
Dark urine
Nausea
Increased GI symptoms

For some, dehydration can trigger a vicious cycle: diarrhea leads to fluid loss, dehydration worsens fatigue and weakness, and patients feel too sick to adequately rehydrate.

Why Water Alone May Not Be Enough

One of the biggest misconceptions about hydration is that drinking plain water is always sufficient.

In reality, many IBD patients lose electrolytes (especially sodium and potassium) along with fluids. Drinking large amounts of water without replacing electrolytes can sometimes leave us feeling even worse.

Electrolytes help the body:

regulate fluid balance
support muscle function
maintain blood pressure
keep nerves functioning properly

That’s why your gastroenterologist may recommend oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks during flares, illness, travel, heat exposure, or high-output ostomy periods.

Be mindful that some sports drinks contain large amounts of sugar or artificial sweeteners that can aggravate symptoms. I’ve personally had luck with DripDrop and Liquid IV.

Summer Activities Can Add Another Layer of Stress

Summer doesn’t just bring heat; it brings logistical anxiety. Long car rides and flights for fun travel. Outdoor festivals. Pool days. Sporting events. Theme parks. Beach vacations. Going to parks with the kids that don’t have bathrooms. The list goes on and on. I know I feel extremely anxious every time I get on my in-law’s boat and just pray, I don’t run into any bathroom issues!

We often become hyper-aware of where bathrooms are located, whether they’ll have access to safe foods, and how quickly heat exhaustion could escalate symptoms. And unlike others, people with chronic illness often can’t simply “push through” dehydration or fatigue.

Medications Can Complicate Heat Tolerance

Certain medications commonly used in IBD management may affect how patients tolerate heat. Steroids can increase sweating and cause fluid shifts within your body, some medications can cause nausea (Zofran to the rescue!), and fatigue from chronic inflammation can worsen when temperatures rise (especially if you’re anemic)!

Tips for Staying Hydrated With IBD This Summer

While every patient is different, experts often recommend:

Hydrating Before You Feel Thirsty. Thirst can be a late sign of dehydration. Consistent hydration throughout the day is key. I make a point of making a water bottle for myself before I even have breakfast or my coffee each morning. As an IBD mom, we can get so busy taking care of everyone else that we can put eating and drinking on the backburner for ourselves.

Focus on Electrolytes During High-Risk Situations

Especially:

outdoor events
travel days
exercise
active flares
ostomy output increases
stomach illnesses

Carry “Safe” Hydration Options: Many people find certain drinks are easier to tolerate than others. Trial and error matters. What may help someone else, may not sit well with you.

Eat Hydrating Foods: Foods like watermelon, lettuce, celery, zucchini, bell peppers, cucumbers, broth-based soups, smoothies, and fruits can contribute to fluid intake. If you’re currently flaring or have active stricturing disease, talk with a registered dietitian about how to navigate this (ex. Cooking the veggies so they’re tender or chewing to applesauce consistency).

Be Careful with Alcohol and Excess Caffeine: Both can worsen dehydration for some people.

Watch for Heat Exhaustion: If symptoms escalate to severe dizziness, fainting, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or inability to keep fluids down, medical attention may be necessary. Be vigilant and proactive as best you can.

The Emotional Side of Summer With Chronic Illness

There’s also a mental load that comes with navigating summer while living with IBD.

Many of us want to participate fully in vacations, outings, and family activities, but may quietly spend the entire day navigating bathroom access, our energy levels, finding safe foods, and staying on medication schedules. That invisible planning can be exhausting.

And for parents with IBD, summer can feel even more physically demanding. I’m gearing up for that with my three kids! The combination of heat, disrupted routines, increased outdoor activities, and caring for children often leaves little room for rest and recovery. Now that my kids are 9, 7, and almost 5, I know that everyday doesn’t need to be an adventure and that low-key days at home can be just as fun for everyone, too. There’s all this hype about bringing back the 90’s summer. Listen to your body and if it means staying home and having the kids ride their bikes, run through the sprinkler, and have popsicles versus going to parks, pools, and amusement parks—that’s ok. Give yourself grace, your body will thank you!

The Bottom Line

Hydration isn’t just a wellness trend for people with IBD, it’s a critical part of symptom management and overall health and something to discuss with your care team.

As summer temperatures climb, patients may need to be more proactive about fluids, electrolytes, rest, and recognizing the early signs of dehydration. As always, listen to how your body speaks to you through symptoms and do your best to address those needs before they become an acute issue.

Because while summer is often portrayed as carefree, many people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are dealing with an entirely different reality behind the scenes: one that requires constant awareness, preparation, and self-advocacy just to feel well enough to participate.

News You Can Use

Electrolytes and Hydration for IBD: What You Need to Know — Stacey Collins Nutrition

The Connection Between Ulcerative Colitis and Dehydration

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Staying hydrated – AGA GI Patient Center

Dehydration: How to Avoid It If You Have IBD

4 Ways To Avoid Dehydration and Balance Electrolytes With Crohn’s and Colitis | MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam

Food, Flares, and Finding What Works: Real Talk on Eating with IBD

April 3, 2026Leave a comment

Knowing what to eat with IBD can feel stressful and overwhelming. While research updates in our community are often exciting, the “news” isn’t always actionable for patients and caregivers. Food, however, is where the rubber meets the road—it’s a daily, practical touchpoint for those of us living with IBD.

Kristin Cunningham, MHA, RD, CSDH, LD, a registered dietitian at WashU’s IBD Center in St. Louis, understands this reality both professionally and personally. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease more than 30 years ago, Kristin recently shared a presentation with her local Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation chapter focused on choosing snacks that are affordable while still meeting the unique needs of someone with IBD.

This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s, Kristin offers insight into how we can approach nutrition and everyday food decisions—whether we’re in a flare or remission.

Food Insecurity and IBD

A growing concern in the IBD community is access to food itself. Research shows that 13.5% of Americans with IBD experience food insecurity, compared to 9% of the general population.

“We know food costs have risen in the past three years, and SNAP benefits have decreased for some, so we can reasonably predict that food insecurity rates are even higher now,” Kristin explains.

Certain groups are disproportionately affected, including individuals who are non-Hispanic Black, uninsured or on Medicaid, or relying on SNAP benefits. Kristin emphasizes that clinicians should routinely screen for food insecurity and take a multidisciplinary approach, bringing in dietitians and social workers to better support patients.

Pain Points from our Community

One of the biggest emotional burdens Kristin sees? Guilt.

Many people with IBD blame themselves, believing they should have been able to pinpoint the exact food that “caused” a flare.

“I try to offer reassurance that active disease is much more complex than just something eaten,” she says. “Diet may play a role, but there are many other factors outside of our control that drive inflammation.”

Beyond that, patients commonly struggle with:

Fatigue that makes meal planning feel impossible
Limited time or cooking skills
The rising cost of food

Dealing with Diet while flaring

Kristin is quick to validate just how difficult eating can be when symptoms are at their worst.

“I struggle to eat well when my disease is active, too,” she shares. “Even water moving through your GI tract can hurt.”

Her approach is not about eliminating discomfort completely—but about minimizing additional irritation and maintaining nutrition while the body heals.

That often means focusing on foods that are easier to digest and gentler on inflamed areas, such as:

Peanut butter
Greek Yogurt: Select a yogurt with 7 grams or less of added sugar. The least costly way to achieve this while avoiding artificial sweeteners is to buy plain yogurt & flavor on your own. For example, with vanilla extract, fruit, 1 tsp of honey/sugar/maple syrup, which would add 4-6 grams of added sugar.
Canned Black Beans/Hummus: You can mash up any canned beans for tolerance. Rinse salted canned beans with water to reduce sodium content.
Avocado
Hard boiled Eggs
Cottage Cheese with fruit: Select cottage cheese that is 2% fat or less (unless trying to gain weight) & free of carrageenan. Select diced fruit in 100% juice to avoid added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Cereal: Select a cereal with 2+ grams of fiber & 4 grams or less of added sugar per serving.
Microwave Baked Potato with Olive Oil: Avoid skin if stricture/short bowel/ileostomy or other difficulty with insoluble fiber
Unsweetened Applesauce
Soft-cooked carrots
Slow cooker shredded chicken
Smoothies
Mashed potatoes

Preparation matters just as much as the food itself. Chewing thoroughly, cooking well, peeling, mashing, or pureeing can all make a meaningful difference.

For those open to more structured approaches, Kristin may suggest:

While these options have stronger evidence in Crohn’s disease, early research suggests potential benefits in ulcerative colitis as well. That said, Kristin is transparent, she knows from firsthand experience, that these approaches can be difficult to tolerate and may take weeks to show results.

“Most of my patients aren’t interested in that level of structure, and that’s completely understandable,” she says. “But people deserve to know these options exist.”

Snacking with IBD

Kristin’s top three snacks are guacamole and chips, Cheerios, and snack cookies.

Snack Cookie Recipe

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 Ripe Bananas

• 1 egg

• ½ cup nut or seed butter

• ½ TB olive oil

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup Flour of choice (almond, white wheat, whole wheat, etc.)

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• 2 cups of cereal (ex. Puffed rice cereal, puffed millet cereal, cornflakes)

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Add bananas to a large bowl & mash. Add remaining ingredients (except cereal) and mix well. Add cereal and mix well. Drop by 1-1 ½ TB scoops onto baking sheet. Makes 12 cookies. Store any not eaten same day in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Food will never be a perfect science with IBD, and it’s not supposed to be. What matters isn’t control, but connection: learning your body’s cues, honoring its limits, and responding with flexibility instead of fear. Some days that might look like a well-balanced meal; other days, it’s a few safe bites just to get through. Both count. Both matter. Because living with IBD isn’t about getting it “right,” it’s about continuing to nourish yourself, in whatever way you can, even when it’s hard.

Kristin’s list of helpful resources for IBD-friendly recipes:

Gut Friendly Recipes | Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

IBD-Friendly Recipes & Nutrition | GI Nutrition Foundation

Freebies | Wellness By Food

Pureed Pzazz: Pureed Food Recipes

Chef-Crafted Recipes for Gut Health & IBD Wellness | Chef With IBD

Recipes Recipes – Eat Well Crohn’s Colitis

IBD AID Recipes – Center for Applied Nutrition at UMass Chan Medical School

Quick Easy Recipes – African, Latin American, Asian, Vegetarian & Vegan OLDWAYS – Cultural Food Traditions

From Ulcerative Colitis to College Football: Nick Zecchino’s Comeback and the Birth of Carna Nutrition

January 26, 2026January 23, 2026Leave a comment

In 2016, Nick Zecchino was living the dream. After years of relentless dedication, he signed a Division I football scholarship to the University of Connecticut. For a young athlete who had poured his heart, body, and soul into the sport he loved, it was validation that every sacrifice had been worth it.

“I was on top of the world,” Nick recalls. “It was the proudest day of my life to that point. Then, one month later my health started to decline out of nowhere. It was scary, there were a lot of questions and uncertainties with what my future was going to hold.”

This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s a look at Nick’s remarkable journey and his comeback story both on and off the football field that left me in awe.

When a Dream Collides with a Diagnosis

Like many of us, Nick’s health issues blindsided him out of nowhere. He lost his appetite. Crushing fatigue set in. Blood appeared consistently in his stool, and his bowel movements increased dramatically. In March 2016, a colonoscopy confirmed what he had never even heard of before: ulcerative colitis.

At first, Nick assumed it would be manageable. Get it under control. Heal up. Be ready for UConn by June.

“I didn’t know the long road ahead,” he says.

Weeks turned into months, and instead of improving, his symptoms worsened. During his senior year of high school, Nick missed most of his baseball season due to a constant flare. Maintaining weight and building muscle, which are essential for a college football player, became nearly impossible. By April, the fear crept in: What if this costs me football?

Playing Through the Unthinkable at UConn

Nick arrived on campus determined to push through. But ulcerative colitis never truly loosened its grip.

From the first game of his freshman season to the last, his health declined sharply. Between September and November alone, during his first college football season, Nick lost more than 50 pounds! By the final game, he weighed just 145 pounds and looked visibly ill. He used the bathroom 20 to 25 times a day, often passing only blood and mucus.

“There really wasn’t any managing it at that point,” Nick says. “I just had to deal with it and the consequences.”

He tried to hide his illness from coaches and teammates, unwilling to show vulnerability or weakness. He timed bathroom breaks to the last possible minute before kickoff, rushed off at halftime, and avoided eating on game days altogether. Even then, the urgency never stopped.

Years of Medications and No Relief

Nick’s treatment history reads like a roadmap of severe disease. After initially trying mesalamine and Lialda, his doctors escalated to stronger therapies as his condition worsened. Over time, he was on Remicade, Humira, Entyvio, 6-MP, prednisone, and antibiotics like Cipro. He even tried multiple biologics still in clinical trials for ulcerative colitis.

Nothing worked to wrangle his IBD under control.

At one point, doctors administered the maximum dose of Remicade possible, at the shortest interval allowed. It still wasn’t enough.

A Turning Point

Eventually, Nick’s dad made the hardest call of his life.

“My dad picked me up from UConn because I couldn’t go on like that anymore.”

A few days later, they were sitting in a doctor office at Mount Sinai in New York with Dr. Arthur Kornbluth, an IBD specialist who would change the course of Nick’s life.

“Going to Mount Sinai saved my life,” Nick says simply.

Dr. Kornbluth tried everything. Every possible medical “trick in the book” to try and get Nick into clinical remission. But despite his efforts, Nick couldn’t achieve lasting remission. Finally, they faced the reality neither wanted to confront: surgery.

“It was terrifying,” Nick admits. “But it was the only way I could get my life back and maybe still have a chance to play football again after my future was put on hold for over two years. Making the decision to go to Mount Sinai and get surgery completely changed the trajectory of my life. It will always be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Three Surgeries. One Unbreakable Goal.

Nick had a total colectomy (which removed his entire colon and gave him a temporary colostomy bag, followed by Takedown surgery and a J-pouch). After the three surgeries in six months, Nick finally began to feel like himself again. In January 2019, he returned to the gym for the first time.

He was weak. Deconditioned. A shell of the athlete he once was. But his motivation never wavered.

“Football was my one and only motivation,” he says. “I spent nights in the hospital bed thinking about how I could get back on the field.”

By June 2019, Nick arrived at Purdue University. At this point, he was not just healthier, but also confident that his dream was no longer out of reach.

A Second Chance at Everything

Walking onto Purdue’s campus felt surreal. Nick felt like a freshman again, even though he wasn’t. In many ways, it was a new life.

“I was just so grateful,” he says. “I had a completely different outlook than anyone else my age.”

When game day arrived, the nerves hit harder than they ever had before. But the moment he took his first snap, they vanished.

“I felt like myself again,” Nick says. “It was one of the best feelings in the world.”

From that point forward, confidence replaced fear. He had already survived more than most people ever would.

Life After UC—and Living Medication-Free

During his four years at Purdue, Nick dealt with recurring pouchitis every couple of months. Antibiotics like Cipro helped, but he grew tired of relying on medication.

Determined to find another way, Nick dove into research on gut health, inflammation, and natural support. Supplements like L-glutamine made a noticeable difference. Eventually, the pouchitis stopped coming back.

One day, his dad noticed the growing lineup of supplements on the kitchen counter.

“If this works so well for you,” his dad asked, “why not create something that could help other people too?”

That conversation sparked the creation of Carna Nutrition and its flagship product, GUT R3BU1LD—a gut health formula inspired by Nick’s own journey.

The name Carna comes from Roman mythology: the goddess of health, vitality, and protection of the internal organs, while helping with digestion.

“I created the full spectrum formula of our product with the help of a health & wellness professional that has been in the industry for 25+ years,” explains Nick. “We also used the access to the manufacturers’ scientists that they have in-house to help us understand the way that the pharmaceutical grade and clinically studied dosages of the ingredients that we have in the product all work together synergistically in a beneficial way for every major gut healing pathway during digestive stress.”

“He Was on His Death Bed. It’s Incredible What He Did.”

Nick’s comeback left a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed it, including his football coaches.

Former UConn head coach and Purdue defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Bob Diaco, recalls:

“I remember watching him and trying to figure out how to stop it. My wife hadn’t seen him for a few months, and she was distraught. He was on his death bed for real. It was bad. It’s incredible what he did.”

“He’s the kind of kid that makes you better,” Diaco continued. “He’s been the underdog at every turn. He always comes out on top. He’s always making an impact on the people around him in a positive way.”

A Message to His Younger Self and to Young Athletes Today

If Nick could speak to his 2016 self, he knows exactly what he’d say:

“Your journey isn’t going to look anything like you imagine, but it’s going to be the most rewarding path for you. Trust it.”

And for young athletes with IBD who are scared their diagnosis might end their dreams?

“Your diagnosis is not the end of your story,” Nick says. “You’re allowed to struggle. You’re allowed to take time to heal. But don’t lose hope. Most of the battle is mental. Stay strong, stay supported, and keep chasing your dreams.”

Where to Find Nick and Carna Nutrition

Carna Nutrition Website
Instagram: @nickzecchino/@carnanutrition
Facebook: Carna Nutrition

Nick’s story is a reminder that even when IBD takes everything, it doesn’t get the final word. Sometimes, it forges something stronger than before. Whether you’re a young person living with IBD or a caregiver worried about what the future will hold for your child, I hope Nick’s incredible story of resilience serves as inspiration to show all that’s possible despite the difficult diagnosis of IBD. I found it interesting that Nick wouldn’t trade all he’s endured to be where he is today, as I always say the same. As time passes and hindsight is 20/20 so many of us experience a transformation that shapes who we are today, all because of the struggles that took us to get here.

Traveling with IBD: Real Talk, Hard Truths, and the Courage to Keep Exploring

December 10, 2025Leave a comment

Traveling with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rarely as simple as packing a suitcase and showing up. It’s logistics, emotions, planning, and flexibility. It takes a bit of hypervigilance. This layered on top of a disease that doesn’t take vacation days. But it is possible. And for many of us, it becomes one of the most empowering reminders that life with IBD can still be adventurous, and rich with new experiences.

This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s you’ll hear from two incredible IBD advocates, Kelly Dwyer and Rachel Verbanac. They both open up about their diagnoses, their anxieties, their coping strategies, and their go-to travel essentials. Their honesty and wisdom offer a roadmap for anyone who wants to explore the world without letting IBD call all the shots.

Meet Kelly: 21 Years of Symptoms, 7 Years Diagnosed

Kelly may have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2018, but she’d been living with severe perianal fistulizing ileal Crohn’s since the early 2000s.

“Before diagnosis, I avoided significant travel whenever possible because I was so ill. And when I did travel, I tried so hard to plan for every single scenario that it became stressful for me and everyone around me.”

Now in deep remission thanks to medication, Kelly still plans intentionally, but the difference is that the planning empowers her instead of holding her back.

She structures trips around:

Her injection schedule
The time of day she flies or drives
What foods she eats before travel
How to pace her energy
And what she needs to stay healthy while surrounded by crowds

“I wear a mask, use sanitizer constantly, wash my hands as much as I can… it all helps me feel like I’m doing what I can to set myself up for success.”

Kelly on Travel Anxiety: The Trauma Stays with You

Despite years of remission, Kelly still carries fear rooted in lived experience.

“I constantly worry about not making it to a bathroom. Even though it has not happened in years, that trauma stays with you.”

Kelly also experiences nausea, anxiety and a whole lot of gas and burbling guts when she travels.

“Finding the right medication cocktail that keeps things calm and in order in my guts (and brain!) took a lot of trial and error, but was worth it for me to find a combination to give me confidence that I’ll feel like I’ve done everything I can to get the trip off on the right foot. I would recommend you ask your doctor or GI about Zofran, anti-anxiety medications in small doses, Gas-x, antacids, and other OTC medications that might help you to make sure they’re safe for you to take.”

She’s built a system that helps her feel confident when she’s traveling:

A “Can’t Wait” restroom access card
Depends or heavy-duty panty liners on days she’s unsure
Change of clothes and wipes in her purse, not her carry-on
Imodium and emergency meds ready to go
Small meals before and during travel days
Medication for nausea, anxiety, gas, and gut discomfort

“I had to learn to relax into the chaos of travel and not panic when plans change. Travel is unpredictable—but so is Crohn’s.”

The Power of Protection: Insurance (Both Emotional and Literal)

Kelly is adamant that travel insurance is non-negotiable.

“I have used travel insurance many times for flare-related cancellations. It can be heartbreaking to miss something important, but it’s not your fault. This is your reality, and you’re doing your best.”

She also communicates openly with travel companions, so expectations are clear and compassionate from the start.

“Find as much peace as possible. Asking for everyone’s understanding and compassion, is so important. I remind myself that it’s not my fault that I am unwell. It’s not anything I did to cause the flare. This is simply my reality, and I am trying my very best, even if it doesn’t always work out the way I’d hoped.”

Kelly’s Must-Have Travel Kit

Here’s what she never leaves home without:

Bundaberg Ginger Beer
Gin Gin’s Chews
Alcohol wipes (to hijack the nausea signals in the brain!)
Overnight pads
A&D Ointment (for diaper rash and skin irritation from fistulas)
Finger cots for applying ointment
Small travel organizer for all my supplies
Pill organizer
Travel bathroom wipes
N95 masks
Travel sanitizing wipes
Refrigerated Injection Canister
On the go Applesauce to calm my upset stomach
Travel rice cooker (when I need to cook gentle food in a flare)
Heating pad
Portable bidet

Kelly’s biggest piece of advice?

“Treat yourself with compassion, always. Build in extra time everywhere. Your comfort is worth it. Having a few extra hours at the airport to sit and read a magazine is much preferable to rushing through security lines and not being able to use the bathroom before getting on the plane because you’re late.”

Meet Rachel: A Travel-Lover Who Refused to Stop Exploring

Rachel was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2021, right as she was going back to nursing school. Before that, she spent months living a nomadic lifestyle in New Zealand and expected to spend her twenties exploring the world. Her diagnosis meant rethinking what travel could look like. Requiring infusions changed everything.

“Hiking the Appalachian Trail used to be a dream, but with the need for insurance, pharmacy authorizations, infusion clinics, and access to university health systems… that lifestyle just wasn’t realistic anymore.”

But Rachel didn’t stop traveling. She adapted.

How Rachel Travels Now

Rachel describes herself as someone who “packs her anxieties,” but in a productive way.

Her prep includes:

Bringing a med kit stocked with small doses of essential meds
Monitoring hydration closely on travel days
Planning meals and bowel habits ahead of time
Understanding bathroom access in each country
Carrying small local currency bills for paid restrooms
Bringing a letter from her provider outlining her diagnosis and meds

“After many international trips, I’ve proven to myself that how I feel at home reflects how I feel on the road.”

Rachel also buys comprehensive travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions, often from TinLeg, and encourages others to read the fine print carefully, especially regarding upfront payment rules.

“I feel much more secure knowing all medical bills will be paid for should I need anything abroad. Beyond health insurance, I have used the insurance for trip interruption and costs of delays. I also have my provider write me a letter stating my disease, common side effects, and my current medications. This letter can be useful when seeking care at a new clinic or if TSA should ever give you a difficult time (I have never experienced this). I like having the physical letter in the med kit.”

Bathroom Access: A Cultural Learning Curve

When traveling with others, Rachel gives them a heads up that access to bathrooms is a priority for her. Especially when traveling in Europe.

“Europe often requires a purchase to use a restroom. You cannot just run into a McDonald’s.”

Her strategy?

Plan ahead
Carry cash: Having a few small bills in the local currency is helpful to make a quick sale or pay at public bathroom stations in some countries.
Use a bathroom every time you see one
Keep the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s “We Can’t Wait” card on hand

And she always tried to keep everything in perspective, even when the unexpected happens.

“Accidents are embarrassing, but you will most likely never see these people again. It is okay. You are okay.”

Travel Anxiety: You’re Not Alone

Rachel acknowledges the fears that come with IBD, but her message is clear:

Do not let IBD keep you from seeing the world.
Start small and your confidence will grow.

She now travels to Mexico annually and cannot imagine winters without it.

Nurse-Approved Safety Tips from Rachel

Some of her favorite reminders:

Even healthy travelers get GI bugs—be cautious with food and water. Taking general precautions like only drinking bottled water in areas where the water might not be safe to drink, sanitizing your hands often, and avoiding touching your eyes and mouth are still the best ways to prevent infections.
Avoid buffet sushi
Choose made-to-order stations
Read resort and food reviews. She checks out Google reviews, TripAdvisor, and Hotels.com to see what people have to say before she books a trip.
Wear an N95 on flights to avoid illness and see if your travel companions will do the same to help keep germs at bay.
Advocate for yourself with travel companions
Read Google reviews quickly if you’re unsure of a restaurant, locals and travelers will share if they got sick eating there. Look for highly frequented places.

As a nurse, Rachel has these words of wisdom for our community, “Don’t let IBD keep you from seeing places and experiencing new cultures. Often as patients we have anxiety and unknown destinations can seem overwhelming and scary. Start small and your confidence will grow, promise.”

Rachel’s Travel Med Kit

She carries:

Doctor’s letter
Hand sanitizer
Tylenol
Imodium
Pepto
Tums
Fiber
Gas-X
Benadryl
Dramamine (also helpful for intense nausea)
Zofran
Liquid I.V.
Band-Aids that are a few sizes
Contact solution or small vial of artificial tears (I wear contact lenses)
A few doses of Dayquil and Zyrtec—when changing the container medication comes in, be sure to write the dose (mg or ml or the number of pills) and how often you take it.
A tube of triple antibiotic ointment and hydrocortisone ointment (for scrapes and bug bites)

Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Experience the World

Traveling with IBD takes more planning, more flexibility, and more courage than most people will ever understand. But as Kelly and Rachel show, it’s possible and it can even become empowering.

As someone who was diagnosed with Crohn’s more than 20 years ago traveling can still make me feel a bit uneasy. I always keep pain medication, Zofran, and Dramamine in my carry on. If you have to pack your biologic medication, keep that on you as well. It’s important to check how long your injection can be out of the fridge. Nowadays, Humira for example, can be unrefrigerated for up to 14 days. If you have to do your injection while away from home, make sure to have alcohol swabs and an ice pack (if you are used to using one).

I never drink caffeine prior to flights or long road trips, and I eat very light until I am at my destination. I try to dress as comfortably as possible, and do not restrict my belly in any way. The moment I get to my hotel room I take off my travel clothes and shower. If you are traveling and feeling symptomatic, it can be helpful to alert your care team at home and also do research beforehand about local hospitals so you have a game plan in place should you be facing an acute flare that may require a trip to the emergency room.

Whether you are taking a weekend road trip or boarding a long-haul flight, remember:

You’re allowed to take up space.
You’re allowed to prioritize your needs.
You’re allowed to choose comfort over speed.
You’re allowed to protect your energy.

And most importantly:

You deserve to make memories that reach far beyond the walls of your disease.

Additional resources

Traveling with IBD | Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

Crohn’s Disease: Plan Ahead to Make Travel Easier

Travel Tips When You Have Ulcerative Colitis

Tips for Long Travel Days When You Have Crohn’s Disease

Snacks for Crohn’s Disease: 10 Easy Grab-and-Go Ideas

I’m a Frequent Traveler With Crohn’s Disease—Here Are My Packing List Non-Negotiables | Condé Nast Traveler

21 Tips for Traveling with IBD – Romanwell

Stronger from the Inside Out: The Role of Nutrition in Gut, Muscle, and Bone Health for Women with IBD

September 29, 2025September 26, 2025Leave a comment

At the inaugural Cedars-Sinai IBD and Women’s Health Conference, experts came together to spotlight the unique challenges women face at the intersection of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and women’s health. Co-directed by Dr. Puja Khanna, Clinical Director of the IBD Women’s Health Program, and Dr. Maria Abreu, Executive Director of the IBD Institute, the event featured a two-part format: clinical updates for providers and education for patients and caregivers. Topics ranged from fertility and pregnancy to nutrition and mental health.

One of the featured speakers was Neha D. Shah, MPH, RD, CNSC, CHES, Senior Dietitian at the Colitis and Crohn’s Disease Center at UCSF and founder of Neha Shah Nutrition LLC, a private practice specializing in nutrition care for patients with IBD. Her session focused on nutrition updates and strategies to support gut, muscle, and bone health in women with IBD. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s I spoke with Neha, and she zeroed in on something every woman with IBD should care about: how to use nutrition to protect our gut, muscle, and bone health.

Why Nutrition Matters Beyond the Gut

Whether you live with IBD or care for patients, you know that IBD affects much more than the gut. Fatigue, abdominal pain, and debilitating flares that blindside us can make it feel like our whole body is affected. While we know this, it can be complicated to know how to address these specific challenges.

“Women with IBD face a unique set of challenges,” Neha explains. “Poor absorption can contribute to ongoing symptoms, muscle loss, and bone loss. Hormonal shifts, whether from PMS, pregnancy, or perimenopause add yet another layer, often making symptoms unpredictable.”

Her goal? To give women practical, evidence-based strategies they can use to better support their health, both now and as their bodies change through different life stages. As a woman who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at age 21, my questions and focus have shifted now that I’m 42 and my family is complete.

“Many women don’t just experience flare-ups; they live with changes in their body that evolve throughout life, impacting daily routines, work, and overall quality of life. In my presentation, I aimed to highlight both the latest updates and practical, whole-food strategies that women can use to better support their health.”

Key Takeaways from Neha’s Presentation

Gut Health

IBD symptoms often overlap with PMS and endometriosis: fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation. If you’ve noticed an uptick in your IBD symptoms right around your period, you are not imagining it.

When combined, these conditions can intensify, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and proactive management.

Dietary Patterns: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil may reduce the risk of IBD flares and ease painful bowel symptoms in women with endometriosis.
Fiber Matters: Soluble fiber (oats, fruit) can slow diarrhea, insoluble fiber (leafy greens, brown rice) can help constipation, and less fermentable fibers may reduce gas and bloating. Adjusting textures, like blending or mashing can improve tolerance, especially for those with strictures.

Neha notes that further studies are needed here and she’s hopeful we’ll have even more intel in the future.

Muscle Health

Sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and strength) is more common in IBD due to chronic inflammation and nutrient malabsorption. Hormonal changes and aging further increase the risk.

Nutrition + Activity: Adequate protein intake (1.2–1.5 g/kg per day for many with IBD) and resistance training are key. Individual requirements sometimes are even higher.

Gut-Muscle Axis: Emerging research suggests fiber may support muscle health by fueling beneficial gut bacteria. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2018 survey data from 6,000 healthy adults (without IBD) showed each 5 g increase in fiber intake was associated with higher lean mass and grip strength, possibly through increased short-chain fatty acid production. Fiber’s role in IBD and sarcopenia remains understudied.
Practical Tip: Aim for 15–20 grams of protein per meal, combining both animal (e.g., fish) and plant-based sources (e.g., lentils, tofu, nut butter). People with IBD generally have higher protein needs, which can vary depending on weight, activity level, and disease state.

“Evidence in women with IBD is limited. One small case-control study of 23 women with UC versus age- and BMI-matched controls found reduced quadriceps strength, slower sit-to-stand and gait speed, and lower physical activity, though handgrip strength was preserved, says Neha. “Early assessment of nutrition, activity, and lower limb function is crucial. No IBD-specific sarcopenia guidelines exist, but recommendations from the International Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sarcopenia by the annual International Conference on Frailty and Sarcopenia Research by centers at John Hopkins University include increasing protein/calorie intake and resistance training.”

Bone Health

Women with IBD are at higher risk for osteoporosis and osteopenia, especially during perimenopause and menopause. The gut-bone axis reflecting the connection between gut microbes and bone health may play a role. Calcium and vitamin D requirements in individuals with IBD depend on factors such as disease activity, malabsorption risk, corticosteroid use, and deficiency status.

If you haven’t done so already, talk with your care team about getting a DXA scan (bone density scan) so you have a baseline. The earlier in your IBD journey, the better. Bone scans are non-invasive, and probably the easiest test we undergo. You wear your street clothes, lie down on a table, and it’s a quick and painless experience. I have a bone health doctor at Wash U (yes, that’s her title!), who focuses specifically on this after a bone scan in 2022 showed signs of osteopenia and osteoporosis in my 30s. Be mindful on the timing—do not get a bone scan while pregnant or breastfeeding as this can skew the results. If you’re nursing, it’s ideal to give your body at least 6 months after weaning before you get a bone scan, so your bone health is accurate.

Calcium & Vitamin D: People with IBD often under consume these nutrients, particularly when dairy is restricted. For most, calcium needs range from 1,000–1,500 mg/day, with vitamin D at 1,500–2,000 IU/day. In a cross-sectional study of 65 IBD outpatients, nearly two-thirds reported restricting dairy, leading to an average calcium intake of only 343 mg/day—well below the daily recommendation.
Practical Tip: For those who tolerate dairy, start small—a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of cheese, or lactose-free milk. Non-dairy sources and supplements can help fill the gaps. When you get labs, you can talk with your GI about looking at your vitamin D level to see if it is adequate or not. I was on 50,000 IU once a week for many years. Now, I take 2,000 IU a day. So, this figure does fluctuate and it can improve.

Nutrition Across Life Stages

Neha stresses the importance of tailoring nutrition guidance to a woman’s age and life stage:

Young women (around age 20): Focus on building peak bone mass, meeting calcium and vitamin D needs, and making realistic choices in dining halls or dorms. Portable, nutrient-dense snacks like yogurt, nut butter, or fortified bars can make a difference.
Premenopausal women: Greater emphasis on long-term bone and muscle health, distributing protein intake evenly throughout the day, and pairing nutrition with weight-bearing activity to maintain strength. Neha’s focus shifts more toward optimizing long-term bone health, since risk factors may be increasing.

“Across both age groups, I prioritize adequate protein and fiber in forms that are well tolerated to help manage symptoms and optimize muscle mass, while also monitoring common nutrient deficiencies such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate,” explains Neha.

The Role of an IBD-Specialized Dietitian

A dietitian specializing in IBD plays a vital role in helping patients understand how inflammation and treatments can affect digestion, absorption, and food tolerance.

“We stay up to date with the latest evidence and tailor nutrition strategies to each stage of the disease—whether someone is newly diagnosed, recovering from surgery, or in remission. For example, we help patients identify which types and textures of fiber are best tolerated, since not all foods impact the gut the same way,” says Neha. “We also emphasize balanced protein intake from both animal and plant sources to protect muscle mass, and ensure nutrients for bone health, like calcium and vitamin D are optimized from both dairy and non-dairy options. Just as importantly, we integrate these strategies into each patient’s lifestyle, culture, and social settings so that recommendations are practical, sustainable, and supportive of long-term quality of life.”

By seeking out a registered dietitian who specializes in IBD you are truly targeting your treatment and receiving personalized care that helps you cut through the confusion, especially if you are newly diagnosed. Their strategies are not just good on paper; they work at your kitchen table and in your daily routine to help you get your health and well-being back under control.

Accessing a dietitian may depend on the healthcare system. Patients can ask their gastroenterologist for a referral, or they may be able to connect with an IBD-specialized dietitian through private practice. Many registered IBD dietitians also do virtual video calls, so it’s not necessary for in-person, local appointments. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation provides resources to help connect patients with dietitians who have expertise in IBD.

Final Thoughts

Nutrition in IBD isn’t one-size-fits-all. It requires careful personalization and an understanding of the unique challenges women face throughout their lives. By focusing on gut, muscle, and bone health, women with IBD can better protect their bodies today while laying the foundation for stronger health in the future. It’s not just about flares and managing our IBD, it’s about how our bodies uniquely absorb nutrients, how inflammation affects our strength, and how hormonal changes shift the way we fell over time. Muscle weakness, bone loss, and unpredictable symptoms tied to our menstrual cycles can be a lot, but small, realistic changes in how we eat and move our bodies can make a lasting difference.

Click here to learn more about Neha Shah’s work.

Connect with Neha on Instagram: @nehagastrord

Managing ADHD Medications with Crohn’s and Colitis: What Patients Want You to Know

September 8, 2025Leave a comment

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) often means juggling more than one health condition. For some, that includes managing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Both conditions can significantly impact daily life, and when it comes to treatment, it’s important to understand how ADHD medications may interact with IBD and its therapies. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s we hear from more than 25 people who are juggling both and share their impactful advice.

The Overlap Between ADHD and IBD

While ADHD and IBD are separate conditions, research shows that people with chronic illnesses, especially those that begin in childhood or young adulthood may experience higher rates of ADHD or ADHD-like symptoms. Brain fog, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating are also common in IBD, which can make it challenging to distinguish what’s driving certain symptoms.

For those diagnosed with both conditions, ADHD medications can be life-changing, improving focus, energy, and daily functioning. But because IBD involves a sensitive gastrointestinal (GI) system, it’s important to weigh the potential effects ADHD medications can have on digestion and disease activity.

Common ADHD Medications and GI Considerations

Stimulant Medications (Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse, Concerta)

Appetite suppression: Stimulants often decrease appetite, which may be concerning for IBD patients who already struggle to maintain weight or adequate nutrition.
GI side effects: Nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea can occur, sometimes making it difficult to know whether a flare or medication side effect is to blame.
Sleep disruption: Poor sleep can worsen IBD symptoms and overall inflammation. Timing doses earlier in the day can help.

Non-Stimulant Medications (Strattera, Qelbree, Intuniv, Kapvay)

Slower onset: These may be less likely to cause GI upset but can take weeks to become effective.
Potential side effects: Constipation, abdominal pain, and fatigue are possible, which can overlap with IBD symptoms.

Impact on Gut Motility

Both stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications can influence gut motility (how fast or slow food moves through the digestive tract). For those with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, this may complicate symptom management, particularly if diarrhea or constipation is already a challenge.

Key Considerations for Patients with IBD

Collaborative Care is Essential
Make sure your gastroenterologist and psychiatrist (or prescribing physician) are aware of all your medications. This helps prevent drug interactions, especially if you’re on biologics, immunosuppressants, or steroids.
Monitor Nutritional Status
If stimulants suppress appetite, work with a dietitian to find calorie-dense, IBD-friendly foods and snacks that can help you maintain strength and body weight.
Track Symptoms Carefully
Keep a journal noting when you take your ADHD medication, what you eat, and how your GI symptoms present. This can help differentiate between medication side effects and IBD flare activity.
Adjusting Doses and Timing
Sometimes, smaller, or extended-release doses can reduce side effects. Timing medication with meals or adjusting when you take it can also ease GI discomfort.
Mental Health Matters
ADHD itself can heighten stress and anxiety, which are known triggers for IBD flares. Finding a treatment balance that supports both brain and gut health is critical for overall well-being.

An IBD mom and therapist shares her advice

Sammi is an IBD mom who works as a therapist. In her experience, both personally and professionally, she has valuable input to share about taking ADHD medications when you have Crohn’s or UC. Sammi took a low dose of Adderall (5 mg, sometimes 10 mg) in graduate school for her anxiety and ADHD.

“My appetite was extremely impacted I’m sad to say. I did not feel hungry until my stomach was physically giving me intense hunger cues. I was only a couple of months into Humira at that point so I too, was struggling with maintaining my weight and didn’t want that to be impacted.”

Here are a few things Sammi did to make it manageable:

1. ALWAYS eat before you take ADHD medications. Eat a big breakfast, if possible, protein and carbs (if you can tolerate generally, of course). As a therapist, many of my clients struggle with taking meds early enough at times. And inferring a good meal ahead of time can feel like a barrier so I just want to hold space for that. However, it is so imperative to be really fueled and in a good place stomach wise / eating wise before taking for the day.

2. Plan your meals out as much as possible. Since hunger cues were lessened for me, I was in the mood for nothing. So it would be hard to decide what I was going to eat, and then I would not have to decide when I was feeling fatigued and overwhelmed.

3. Snacks are clutch. I say snacks because sometimes that’s just the easiest thing to eat, especially when you don’t want to think about food or you’re not actively thinking about food because your appetite is suppressed. I have Crohn’s disease and one of my biggest triggers is my stomach getting too empty whether it’s because I’ve waited too long to eat or I haven’t eaten enough that day. It will give me such a bad stomachache so that was happening to me pretty frequently when I first started taking the Adderall.

4. Take your ADHD medicines early in the day. This is my BIGGEST piece of advice and clinical recommendation for anyone who is considering taking ADHD medication. Take it early in the day so your sleep isn’t impacted. As we know with IBD- sleep can already be difficult this is so important!

More from the patient community

“My advice is to take it early in the morning so that you can eat more in the afternoon and evening. I don’t have a problem with dropping weight; I had the problem of retaining! Transparently, now I’m on GLP-1 (GI approved) medication, and I’ve lost 38 pounds. Best I’ve ever felt! But, when I take my Adderall too late in the day, I don’t eat and that’s not good either. I take my ADHD meds twice a day, as prescribed. Once at 7 am and once around noon.”

“I have IBD, and I currently take Adderall for my ADHD. I have been on it for a few months, and in my experience, my biggest issue is that it suppresses your appetite for quite some time. I’ve been struggling to gain weight for awhile due to my IBD, so taking something that makes it hard for me to eat all day has been a big challenge. I am thinking about asking my doctor to switch me to a new treatment plan to hopefully find something that doesn’t suppress my appetite!”

“I feel like it never affected me very much with eating and I don’t think there was any interactions between anything with ADHD meds and my UC!”

“I’ve heard fellow moms with kids on these medications recommend eating a big breakfast before ADHD meds kick in, having a snacky lunch, and a late dinner after they wane.”

“There are non-stimulant ADHD meds. Stimulants are the ones that suppress appetite. You can ask your doctor about these and ask to start on the very lowest possible effective dose, if stimulants are required.”

“I don’t take ADHD medications now, but in college I did. I did not find it impacted anything with my Crohn’s. Depending on the ADHD med, it could impact appetite but didn’t interfere with how I manage my IBD.”

“I’m on mental health meds for anxiety and depression, along with ADHD meds, and I do think I’ve had a slight decrease in appetite. I also naturally have a lower appetite than most. A family friend of mine has been on Ritalin for longer than me, and I think he has struggled more in that aspect than I have though.”

“I have a j-pouch with a post-pouch diagnosis of Crohn’s, and I take Vyvanse for ADHD. I take 30 mg a day, I don’t feel like it impacts my appetite at all.”

“I take stimulants for my ADHD, and I don’t have any decrease in appetite. It just depends on the person.”

“The best advice is eating a big breakfast, having snacks for lunch, and then eating a big dinner. I have also reached out to my Crohn’s dietitian to have more creative ideas for small meal ideas! The issue with choosing what medicines is that they all aren’t covered immediately—I’m starting on Adderall, which is one of the suppressants—my doctor doesn’t plan to keep me on that long term, but due to insurance, I have to start there. I have also have to find out what exactly is covered and is not covered (as IBD patients we’ve been there before, right!?)”

“I have Crohn’s and just started to take Vyvanse about two months ago. Even on a low dose, while also being on a high dose of prednisone, I’ve had little appetite. It has helped me to eat something small as soon as I’m able in the morning, before taking the medicine. It helps me have more of an appetite throughout the day, though I have smaller meals now.”

“I have Crohn’s and ADHD. I take an extended release 10 mg Adderall and find that my appetite is fine, a little less, but not dramatically so. I hadn’t really thought about it until my GI went through my meds. I have found that if I take 20 mg (we played around with the dose to find which works best), I do experience a loss of appetite. I think if you can find the therapeutic dose, it should be ok! I’m just a case study of one, but I would also add that ADHD meds have the benefit of supporting healthier time management skills, so I’m more inclined to stop and eat, which my scattered self sometimes didn’t do.”

“I don’t take my ADHD meds every day, but I take Vyvanse and when I do take it, I notice appetite suppression, but it’s nothing severe. I don’t have a j-pouch or struggle with being underweight. When I take them, I usually notice mid-day appetite suppression the most. I tend to eat breakfast before it’s fully kicked in and the effects have waned by dinner time.”

“I have been on Vyvanse, and it has been the best on my stomach and ADHD. I was diagnosed early this year. I tried Adderall, and it made me anxious and over stimulated. Concerta had me nauseated all day, everyday…Vyvanse is the way to go!”

“I have been on Ritalin for the last 2.5 years (finally) and even started an anxiety med that also helps with my chronic pain.”

“I’m on 10 mg of Focalin for ADHD and on Imuran (max dose), Entyvio infusions, and other meds for anxiety and depression. I never had a big appetite regularly, so I haven’t noticed a big difference. The benefit for me has been that I am calmer now and don’t get that ADHD stress. I’m 45 and was just diagnosed with ADHD last November. I’ve had Crohn’s since age 14 with many surgeries between then and 2022.”

“I have IBD and take ADHD meds. I never had the lack of appetite side effect, so I might be an outlier. I usually eat breakfast before taking my pills. Sometimes I need to set timers to eat though if I’m hyperfocusing.”

“I recommend keeping snacks in view. If you don’t feel like eating, drink a protein shake. My Crohn’s symptoms improved a bit with ADHD meds, too.”

“I can’t speak to the loss of appetite, but I was diagnosed with ADHD a few months ago. I tried Adderall for three days, but each day it upset my gut. I had way more bowel movements than normal, even though I was not flaring, and my gut was sore after each one. So, I stopped taking the Adderall and everything went back to normal. I’ve just been self-medicating with caffeine ever since.”

“It helps to eat when you take your ADHD meds and then eat smaller meals throughout the day. It’ll make you not thirsty, so make sure you’re mindful about hydrating. I recommend taking little breaks from it, during weekends and things.”

“I just started my ADHD medications again post-baby and have noticed a huge drop in appetite. I tried a few different meds before settling on extended-release Ritalin. I will say immediate release Adderall severely exacerbated my Crohn’s and gave me horrible stomach cramps. The stomach cramp thing is common with that one, even if you don’t have IBD.”

“I stopped my ADHD medication. It absolutely destroyed my belly. They are a stimulant and make you go to the bathroom more an also affect blood flow to the colon. It’s been awful.”

“Personally, it’s never been enough to make me lose weight. But I do tend to front load—eat my biggest meal in the morning. Also, the come down from stimulants will have you ravenous by the end of the day.”

Finding the Right Balance

Every person’s IBD and ADHD journey looks different. What works well for one person may not for another. The key is to be proactive, keep your healthcare team in the loop, and advocate for adjustments when needed.

Managing IBD is already a full-time job. Adding ADHD into the mix can feel overwhelming, but with the right treatment plan, many people find that their ADHD medications not only improve focus but also help them feel more in control of their health overall.

Additional Resources

Risk of Anxiety, Depression, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Pediatric Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Population-Based Cohort Study – PubMed

Association between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders and intestinal disorders: A systematic review and Meta-analysis | Scientific Reports

Gut dysbiosis as a driver of neuroinflammation in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A review of current evidence – ScienceDirect

Is There a Link Between Adderall and Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Flares? | MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam

ADHD and Bowel Issues: Finding ReliefWhen ADHD Meets IBD: A Complicated Relationship – Girls With Guts

Magnesium Deficiency in IBD Patients and the Role of Natural Support

July 2, 2025July 2, 2025Leave a comment

When you’re living with a chronic illness like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, it’s easy to become hyper-aware of every medication, every symptom, and every nutrient—or lack thereof. One essential mineral that often flies under the radar is magnesium.

Magnesium supports nerve function, hormone balance and how we respond to stress, so when levels drop, the nervous system can become overly reactive. For those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), these symptoms can be even more noticeable because our bodies often struggles to absorb and retain magnesium properly.

According to Hollie King, Founder of Sweet Bee Organics, this humble mineral could be one of the most powerful tools in the IBD toolkit. This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s Hollie explains why magnesium matters so much for people in our community.

While I was working on this article, I did an Instagram poll asking the IBD community if they take a magnesium supplement. Of the 245 people who responded, 34% said “yes”, 29% said “no”, and 37% replied “should I be?”

The power of Magnesium

“Magnesium is one of those quiet powerhouses in the body,” Hollie explains. “It’s often overlooked, but absolutely essential. It plays a role in over 300 biochemical reactions, helping muscles relax, supporting proper nerve function, balancing hormones, and aiding energy production.”

When magnesium levels drop, your body knows it—but it doesn’t always scream it out loud. Instead, it whispers. Symptoms like anxiety, poor sleep, muscle cramps, low energy, and even restless legs may emerge. But there are subtler signs too: eye twitching, heart palpitations, tingling sensations, and a hypersensitivity to noise or stress.

For those with IBD, particularly Crohn’s disease, magnesium deficiency can be even more pronounced. “When the gut is inflamed or damaged, it struggles to absorb nutrients properly,” Hollie shares. “And magnesium is one of the first to drop.”

The Magnesium–IBD Connection

Recent research, like the article “Magnesium—A Potential Key Player in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases?” published in the Journal of Inflammation Research, highlights the strong link between magnesium deficiency and IBD. But knowing you’re deficient and being able to do something about it are two very different things, especially if your gut can’t absorb it well.

That’s where Sweet Bee Organics comes in. Rather than relying on supplements taken by mouth, Hollie and her team focus on transdermal support—a method that completely bypasses the digestive system.

“Our Sweet Sleep Magnesium Butter delivers highly absorbable magnesium chloride directly through the skin,” Hollie says. “You simply massage it into your chest, feet, lower back, or even your tummy before bed. It’s not just about topping up magnesium—it’s about calming the nervous system, supporting sleep, and helping the body reset.”

The Sweet Sleep Magnesium Butter isn’t just effective—it’s a best-seller across the U.S. and U.K. for a reason. “We’re obsessed with packing as much magnesium as possible into our balm,” says Hollie. “It’s not easy, but we’re committed to delivering a product that works—and works quickly.”

For people with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, the benefits of restoring magnesium levels can be profound. Balanced magnesium supports better digestion, improves sleep, reduces muscle tension, steadies mood swings, and even eases PMS symptoms. You sleep better. You feel calmer. Your energy becomes more stable, and your muscles feel less tight or twitchy.For IBD patients in particular, it can help calm inflammation and improve nutrient absorption—essential steps in managing the day-to-day symptoms of the disease.

“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s one of those foundational nutrients that helps everything else work better. The biggest thing people notice? They just feel more like themselves again,” Hollie explains.

Hollie’s Health Journey

This mission is deeply personal for Hollie, who was diagnosed with aggressive cervical cancer and had to completely reimagine how she cared for her body. “Magnesium became an important part of my healing journey. It wasn’t just about sleep or stress—it was about helping my body heal, rebuild, and feel safe again.”

Hollie happens to be my husband’s first cousin—and witnessing her health transformation and all she’s accomplished since her cancer diagnosis has been awe-inspiring. We’re not only family, but friends and I admire her and the genuine work she’s doing. We’ve wanted to collaborate for awhile and when Hollie saw the recent published medical study regarding magnesium and IBD we knew this was the perfect opportunity.

*Hollie and I took our kids trick or treating this past Halloween when she was back in the States*

Her empathy extends to the IBD community. “For anyone living with IBD, I truly see you. I know how exhausting it can be to manage symptoms, juggle treatments, and wonder if your body is even absorbing what it needs. That’s why I created Sweet Bee. Magnesium might seem like a small thing, but sometimes the smallest shifts are the ones that change everything.”

How is Magnesium Measured—and Why the Standard Test Might Miss the Mark

Many of us assume a blood test will tell the full story, but Hollie points out that traditional serum magnesium tests only measure about 1% of the magnesium in your body.

At my clinic visit with my GI last week, my doctor included magnesium in my lab work and the results were within range, but he also told me there would be no harm in using the transdermal magnesium discussed in this article.

For people with IBD, especially those experiencing persistent symptoms, your GI may suggest testing beyond the standard serum magnesium draw or even recommend supplementation based on symptoms alone. This may be something you want to bring up during your next clinic visit or over the Patient Portal.

How to Naturally Raise Your Magnesium

While supplements are helpful, diet is still key. Magnesium-rich foods include:

Pumpkin and chia seeds
Almonds, cashews, and peanuts
Beans and legumes
Spinach, broccoli, and potatoes with skin
Whole grains like oats and brown rice
Avocados, bananas, raisins
Milk, yogurt, and soy milk
Salmon, halibut, chicken, beef
Fortified cereals

That said, people with IBD often can’t rely solely on food due to absorption challenges. This is where topical support like Sweet Bee’s magnesium products truly shine.

Can You Take Magnesium with Crohn’s or Colitis?

Yes, but with care. Magnesium—especially in forms like citrate—can cause loose stools, which is problematic for IBD patients. That’s why topical magnesium is often a safer, more effective choice.

Always consult with your gastroenterologist before starting new supplements, especially if you’re in an active IBD flare, dealing with kidney disease or if you’re concerned about the medication(s) you are on.

Final Thoughts

In the landscape of IBD care, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But as Hollie reminds us, simple, natural tools—when thoughtfully applied—can offer real relief. Whether you’re struggling to sleep, feel calm, or just want to feel like yourself again, magnesium might be what your body’s been craving.

“You deserve to feel strong, rested, and well in your body. Replenishing magnesium levels in a gentle, non-irritating way can make a real difference in how you feel, both physically and emotionally,” Hollie says. “And we’re here to support that every step of the way.”

Learn More About Sweet Bee Organics

To explore Sweet Sleep Magnesium Butter and other clean wellness products created with love and integrity, click here. Use code NATALIE15 for 15% off sitewide.

Sweet Sleep was recently spotlighted on The View Co-Host’s Favorite Things for Mother’s Day. Check out the segment here.

Additional resources:

Can You Take Magnesium With Crohn’s or Colitis? | MyCrohnsAndColitisTeam

IBD and Magnesium | InflammatoryBowelDisease.net

Magnesium for ulcerative colitis: Benefits and more

Does Magnesium Provide a Protective Effect in Crohn’s Disease Remission? A Systematic Review of the Literature

Malnutrition in Ulcerative Colitis: 6 Common Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies

What can magnesium do for you and how much do you need? – Harvard Health

Disclaimer: This article was not sponsored, but the content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Navigating IBD: A Journey of Resilience, Advocacy, and Hope

March 17, 2025March 14, 2025Leave a comment

An Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) diagnosis often comes with a heavy toll, not only on the body but also on the mind and spirit. For patient leader and three-time author Stephanie A. Wynn, her journey through IBD (like many of us) has been one of pain, perseverance, and advocacy.

This week on Lights, Camera, Crohn’s a look at what inspired Stephanie to write, “Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease – A Six-Week Blueprint for Better Gut Health” and what she hopes our community takes away from her latest book.

The Inspiration Behind the Book

Reflecting on her personal story, Stephanie recalls a heartbreaking experience that would unknowingly be tied to her IBD diagnosis years later. “Fifteen years ago, I lost my daughter, Jameson. At the time, I had no idea that Crohn’s Disease had anything to do with it. I wasn’t even diagnosed yet,” she shares. For years, her symptoms were not properly understood by doctors, which only added to the emotional and physical turmoil. It wasn’t until her sixth diagnosis that medical professionals finally connected the dots.

Through this painful experience, Stephanie realized the vital need for advocacy and support for those suffering in silence. This realization sparked her passion for helping others who may be overlooked or misdiagnosed. “I advocate for the women who are told their pain is normal. I advocate for the patients dismissed by doctors because their symptoms don’t fit the textbook definition,” Stephanie explains.

This journey led to the creation of Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A Six-Week Blueprint for Better Gut Health. This book is more than just a personal account; it’s a powerful resource for those living with IBD and their caregivers. Stephanie wrote the book she wished she had when she was first diagnosed — a roadmap that offers not only practical advice but also emotional support.

A Glimpse Inside the Writing Process

As a three-time author, Stephanie approaches writing as a deeply empathetic process. She listens carefully to the stories and concerns of the IBD community. “Before I write, I ask: What are people struggling with the most? What’s missing from the resources currently available? How can I make complex medical and lifestyle topics easier to digest?” she says.

Each chapter of Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is designed to address the real-life struggles of patients and caregivers. The book offers practical advice on managing symptoms, self-advocating in medical spaces, and embracing resilience, making it a comprehensive guide to living well with IBD.

What Stephanie Hopes Readers Take Away

The central focus of this book is to give patients confidence. Confidence in managing their health, advocating for themselves in medical spaces, and maintaining hope for a fulfilling life despite the challenges of IBD. The six-week blueprint includes:

Actionable steps to manage life with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis
Reflection prompts to help patients process their journey
Guidance on managing symptoms, diet, and mental health
Tools for improving communication with doctors and loved ones

Stephanie emphasizes that no one should have to face IBD alone. “This book is about helping people find their voice, take control of their health, and live their lives with confidence.”

Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

Another key aspect of Stephanie’s work is ensuring that underrepresented communities are included in the conversation about IBD. She is especially passionate about advocating for Black, Brown, and marginalized patients who often face additional barriers to diagnosis, treatment, and support.

“Minorities and underrepresented communities have been overlooked in conversations about IBD,” she says. “The lack of awareness, delayed diagnoses, and disparities in treatment access are real barriers. Through my work as an IBD Patient Navigator® and Certified Patient Leader, I ensure that these communities feel seen, heard, and supported.” Stephanie is determined to elevate voices that are often ignored and make sure that health equity becomes a priority for all.

Why This Book Means So Much

For Stephanie, Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease is not just a book — it’s a mission. It is the culmination of her own struggles, triumphs, and desire to make a difference. “This book isn’t just a project, it’s my story, my advocacy, my purpose,” she shares. It’s the blueprint she desperately needed when she first began her journey with IBD, and now it’s available for others to guide them through the maze of treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional challenges that come with this chronic illness.

She hopes her story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone who feels lost or overwhelmed by their diagnosis. “No one should have to figure out Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis alone,” Stephanie says.

Final Thoughts

Stephanie’s message is clear: IBD may shape our lives, but it doesn’t have to define us—which I love! Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A Six-Week Blueprint for Better Gut Health is not just a guide for managing symptoms, it’s a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and community. With this book, Stephanie aims to spark a movement towards better gut health, stronger patient advocacy, and a future where no one navigates IBD alone.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or someone who has lived with IBD for years, this book is for you. As a fellow patient advocate and leader, I’m so proud of Stephanie for going after her dreams and making this latest resource a reality for our community. Together, we can turn pain into purpose and ensure that no one fights this battle in silence.

Click here to order your copy of Navigating Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Let’s keep the conversation going.

Connect with Stephanie on Instagram and LinkedIn and share your IBD story.

Learn more about the Stephanie A. Wynn Foundation, Inc., which is dedicated to eliminating healthcare and financial disparities in underserved African American and marginalized communities.

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