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.

Give it a go and let us know how you do.

________

Question of the Week - How can Metamucil help me if I have diarrhea?

Metamucil is a soluble fiber supplement. Its active ingredient is psyllium husk. At first, the thought of using a fiber supplement for diarrhea might sound counterintuitive. But, psyllium husk is a natural gel-forming fiber that improves stool form and reduces symptoms in chronic diarrhea and constipation. 

Unlike other soluble fiber supplements, psyllium does not cause gas because it’s not readily fermented in the large intestine.

Besides normalizing stool output, psyllium can lower lousy cholesterol and improve blood sugar control. This makes it a great choice for people at risk for cardiovascular disease or diabetes.

If you or your healthcare provider feel you might benefit from a trial of psyllium, we suggest you choose a pure psyllium seed husk powder versus Metamucil. Metamucil has lots of unnatural additives, including food colorings and sweeteners. 

In our experience, the powder form is more effective than capsules. Be sure to drink extra water no matter which form you take. 

________

A Smoothie....Hold the Fruit

A smoothie without fruit?! That's right. Sweet potato is the star of this delicious smoothie. 

Too much fruit can lead to diarrhea, gas, bloating and blood sugar spikes in some people. If you're in this group, then consider trying this fruit-less smoothie from Food52. 

INGREDIENTS

1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cooked*+

2 tablespoons creamy almond butter

1 tablespoon chia seeds, optional

1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other milk alternative

1/2 teaspoon pure maple syrup or honey, optional

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

5 ice cubes

MAKE IT 

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth, about 10–20 seconds. Serve immediately.

*Quickly cook sweet potato by poking holes in it with a fork and microwaving 4–5 minutes or until soft. Let cool for a few minutes.

+1 cup cooked butternut squash or pumpkin also work.

________

A Fun Food Find - Cookies!

Treat yourself to an Emmy's Organic Coconut Lemon Ginger cookie. 

Minimally processed with clear ingredients and just 5 grams of sugar (agave) per serving, one of these melt-in-your mouth cookies is a satisfyingly sweet treat. 

Plus, they're vegan and kosher. 

________

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 new ebook, Eating with IBD: The Essentials.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