3 Quick Things

Hi Everyone! 

Improve your health with this week’s three simple IBD tips and takeaways.

Remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Little changes lead to big results. We challenge you to take one small action today to benefit your future tomorrows.

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Telehealth and IBD

Telehealth visits could exceed 1 billion by the end of 2020, with 900 million related to COVID-19. 

Some patients and healthcare providers love telehealth, others don’t. 

Whatever side you fall on, telehealth has its benefits. Here are 6 excellent reasons to use telehealth for IBD.

Scott says: I’ve had a few telehealth visits (hi Dr. Scherl!) and really appreciate not having to go to a hospital or doctor’s office, particularly during the pandemic. I’m excited to see how telehealth improves over the next few years as technology advances and interest in the area continues to grow. 

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Creamy Homemade Oat Milk

Oatmilk is a popular choice for many people with GI issues because it’s naturally dairy-free and soy-free. Like other dairy-free milk alternatives, the tastiest and healthiest ones are homemade. 

Here’s a simple recipe for creamy homemade oatmilk. 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 3 cups ice cold water + enough water to soak oats
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, optional 
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup, optional 
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional 
• Pinch of sea salt

MAKE IT

1. Rinse oats, then soak them in a bowl of water (just enough water to cover them) for 20 minutes. Drain off excess water.
2. Place the soaked oats and 3 cups ice cold cold water in a high-speed blender.
3. Strain through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth into a wide glass bowl, careful not to over squeeze. Choose a nut milk bag over a cheesecloth if you have the option. 
4. Discard pulp from bag or cheesecloth.
5. Rinse the blender and pour the milk back into the blender from the bowl.
6. Add the coconut oil, maple syrup, and/or vanilla and salt. Blend for 10 seconds.
7. Pour the oat milk into an airtight container and store in the fridge. It will last between 4-7 days. Shake it well before drinking as it will separate in the fridge.

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UC and Smoking

Because smokers are less likely to develop ulcerative colitis, people with UC may be tempted to smoke to reduce their symptoms. However, a recent nationwide study of roughly 7,000 patients with UC found no beneficial effects of smoking. 

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Remember, there’s no one perfect diet for everyone with IBD. If you or anyone you know struggles with what to eat with Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis, then check out our ebook, Eating with IBD: The Essentials.

Check it out

Do you have a question about these topics, or something else? Just reply with your question to this email and it may appear in an upcoming newsletter.

In good health,

Colleen, Bertina & Scott

This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is in no way intended as medical counseling or medical advice. Results may vary