Just because you have Crohn’s Disease it does not mean that
your life has to end. It is quite likely that you know people with Crohn’s
Disease – but you’d never know they had it. If you take the proper steps to
manage Crohn’s you can still enjoy going out to eat. However, there are a few
things you should keep in mind when you eat out.
It is a good idea to have a plan when you are going to eat
out. As many Crohn’s sufferers can attest, the disease can rear its ugly head
at the drop of a dime. Make sure you have all the basics covered – or at least
as many as possible – before you leave the comfort and security of your home.
If you know where you are going out to eat you should
probably check the menu online for items that you will be able to eat with
little worry. Most restaurants have websites that have either their complete
menus or at least a sample of the kind of food on offer. If there is no website
or the choices don’t offer things you can safely eat, you can always call them.
If you tell the manager about your battle with Crohn’s, and
inform them of your dietary needs, you might be able to commission a custom
meal! If there is no way the restaurant can help you out, have something to eat
at home before you leave and just have something small and light at the restaurant.
When you get to a restaurant it is a good idea that you find
out where the restrooms are located. If you have a sudden flare-up it may be
necessary for you to make a quick exit to the bathroom. Once you have located
the restrooms and chosen something you know should be able to eat without too
much trouble you can relax and enjoy your evening.
Crohn’s Disease symptoms can be exacerbated by many foods.
Become familiar with foods that irritate you and do your best to avoid them.
Most appetizers such as buffalo wings, potato skins, and mozzarella sticks may
irritate your digestive tract. In addition, avoid alcoholic drinks whenever
possible.
Eating out with Crohn’s Disease does not have to be a
dreaded event. For many business people, dinner meetings are a regular event.
If you have Crohn’s you may not always have the choice of where to eat. This is
why having a conscious plan to tackle dining out is important. Remember, even
if you are in remission and have been for some time, another flare-up may be
right around the corner. Erring on the side of caution is the best idea especially
if it’s a restaurant you’ve not been to before.
There are also many more resources and lots of information
about controlling and treating Crohn’s Disease symptoms here Breakthrough Crohn's Disease Guide.
