Unexpected Weight Gain: How Changing My Diet Calmed My J-Pouch Symptoms

Ever since I could remember, I thought that inflammatory bowel disease caused people to only lose weight. I remember being 160 pounds, on major doses of prednisone, and thinking after surgery I would never be that weight again.

My gastroenterologist at the time told me if all goes well, you will gain the weight back and more. I never really believed him. How could I gain back that much weight?

Understanding weight fluctuations with Crohn’s and colitis

Weight fluctuations are very common when dealing with IBD, which is why my doctor today always asks me, “Any sudden weight changes?” It is standard practice for gastroenterologists to ask these types of screening questions.

During the height of COVID-19, I really became stressed out. When I am stressed out, I eat. Yes, I know that it affects my Crohn’s, especially when eating trigger foods, but cravings can be hard to ignore! 

So did I put on weight? Yes. Was it noticeable? Probably. Do I feel horrible about it? You better believe it! 

When doctor visits signal it's time to change your diet

During a routine gastroenterologist visit, I had my standard blood labs drawn. The results showed that my sugar levels were high, and my kidney function was slightly elevated. And finally, that I gained some weight. 

I admitted that I hadn't been eating well over the summer, despite exercising regularly outdoors. My doctor suggested that I go on a new diet to drop a few pounds. I was surprised at first, but I really embraced the challenge.

I significantly reduced my daily carbohydrate intake, cut out sugar, and stuck strictly to water and a single cup of coffee per day. I added more lean protein (excluding red meat), fruits, and vegetables. While fighting my cravings was tough at first, I quickly noticed a difference in how I felt. I know the "results" won't show for a bit more time, but something else happened that I am so happy about!

How a low-carb diet helped reduce my J-pouch urgency

On this diet, I barely eat carbs. I do not eat any starches, and I am handling the fruits and veggies well. That being said, my stomach has calmed down a lot. I used to get a lot of urgency in my J-pouch, which would send horrible spasms to my butt.

Since I have been on this low-carb diet, I have not had those spasms. Also, before the diet changes, I was going to the bathroom at least 20 times a day. Now I go about 8-10. Wow! Right? 

These small changes in my diet have made me feel so much better. I know in the past I feared fruits and vegetables, but my body really has accepted it the best it can. I am eager to follow up with my gastroenterologist to show him the stark changes I have made, and review my progress. 

Improving bloodwork and dehydration risks in IBD

Beyond symptom relief, I hope these dietary changes help bring down my blood sugar and normalize my kidney function. Dehydration likely contributed to my elevated creatinine levels, so I am prioritizing daily fluid intake now.

Sometimes IBD can throw you curves. You just got to take charge and navigate that “winding road"!