Dealing with Stress and IBD
So, what should we do? I believe we need to take a total inventory of our stress. Think about it – parents and kids being involved with going back to school; the holidays looming on the horizon with possible visits of relatives, meals to prepare and coordinate; possible job losses – the list goes on.Stress can produce cortisol, which comes from the adrenal glands. When cortisol is in the body for too long, because we haven't been able to resolve whatever it is that is bothering us, it raises our homocysteine levels. These are linked to several systems in our bodies and can be a challenge for people with IBD.
Once we have considered what it is that is affecting our lives, we need to put those issues into perspective and develop as stress-less an environment we can. It may seem difficult at times, but getting a handle on some of these instead of letting them consume us will calm things down. If it is the holiday season that is sending you into a spin, then remember what the holidays are meant to be all about – and be ready to enjoy them..
I advocate getting plenty of rest and staying away from extra alcohol and caffeine.
It is really easy for any of us to go off our diets during the holidays but, with Halloween, Thanksgiving, Chanukah and Christmas looming, there are so many possible pitfalls in front of us. Holidays are usually a medley of trials and tribulations.
For people with IBD, we need to remember to eat properly and drink water.
For people with IBD, we need to remember to eat properly and drink water. Stay away from too many fatty foods, because they can be a major problem. Be sure to include green vegetables in your diets, particularly those rich in fiber and folic acid. Folic acid helps lower homocysteine and that will be good for handling your stressors. A warning, though – I must emphasize how extremely important it is for individuals with IBD, when it comes to vegetables, to take into consideration what I call the "fork test." Overcook them to the point where you can easily stick your fork into them.
So, the next time you are faced with stress that seems to be producing a flight or fight response in you, don't let it overcome you. Most importantly, remember to take care of yourself.
Nielsen vows to continue to help as many people as possible and to enjoy the moment of each and every day. We would like to thank all of the people that help to make this mission possible.