General Medicine

» Elaine Moore - My mom and Lupus and Crohns

In response to My mom and Lupus and Crohns posted by angiegould:
Hi Angie,
I'm sorry to hear your mom isn't feeling well. Your mom might want to have her blood sugar level checked to make sure she isn't developing any metabolic problems such as insulin resistance. Certain supplements such as cinnamon capsules, glutamine, and chromium help stabilize blood sugar levels, and diet is very important. Glutamine, an amino acid, is also particularly good for intestinal healing in people with Crohn's disease.
You might want to look at info on the glycemic index. The index rates foods according to their effect on blood sugar levels. Certain foods like carrots, potatoes and bread can cause spikes in blood sugar that cause cravings. Sometimes, sticking to foods with a low index and adding slightly more protein can help overall.

You'd want to consider if any triggers like cigarette smoker, chemical cleaners, or food preservatives might be triggering chronic inflammation. Reducing dietary sugar and saturated fats will help reduce inflammation. A diet emphasizing whole and raw foods can also help.

The supplements I mentioned in the earlier posts in this thread are also effective and would be worth a try. Your mother should also be having regular biochemical profiles to check her kidney function. She may also be intolerant or resistant to steroids and you might want to ask her doctor about other medications for reducing inflammation.

Today, there's lots more available info, better medications, and more options for reducing flares and keeping autoimmune conditions in control and remission. It's great that you're taking the time to help your mother figure this all out. When you're not feeling your best, it can be hard to come up with a healing plan. Best to both of you, Elaine