Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition, and although it’s historically underdiagnosed among Black Americans, the symptoms and outcomes are usually worse. And moreover, while many people think of the disease as impacting the gut and digestive tract as a whole, other symptoms appear as well.
One of the most debilitating is actually fatigue. It may not sound like much compared to abdominal pain, soreness, and other more visible symptoms. However, when fatigue from Crohn’s comes on strong, it can absolutely ruin your day. Sapped energy, disruption of normal functioning, and overwhelming mental health challenges can all stem from strong fatigue.
Fortunately, there are remedies. They are simply made, they’re scientifically backed, and they come with minimal side effects.
Let’s draw from the latest nutritional research and cultural practices. We’ll explore five remedies that can combat Crohn’s fatigue fast, at all levels, starting today…
Natural Remedies to Combat Crohn’s Fatigue
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research continuously shows that ginger reduces systemic inflammation, which, as you may know, is a key driver of Crohn’s fatigue. Ginger is also great for improving digestion, which is another key to reducing bloating and cramping, common among people with Crohn’s.
Not to mention, the rejuvenating warmth of ginger fits nicely with traditional African and Caribbean remedies – so it’s as much a cultural experience as a medicinal one!
To make your ginger tea, begin by steeping 1 inch of fresh ginger (peeled and sliced) in 2 cups of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes, then add 1 tsp of raw honey and a squeeze of lemon. Strain it and sip it warm, savoring the flavor blend and vitamin C to boot.
Thanks to the mild stimulant effect of ginger, you can shake the fatigue without the caffeine jitters.
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2. Bone Broth
We’ve been hearing about the benefits of bone broth for decades, so it should be no surprise that it’s still as highly touted today. If you didn’t know, bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids like glutamine, which, in particular, is great for supporting your gut lining.
In fact, glutamine is good for correcting “leaky gut,” which means your gut is too permeable. Thanks to glutamine, your gut becomes a better barrier, keeping harmful substances from entering your bloodstream.
Bone broth also provides bioavailable nutrients like magnesium, which is crucial for energy production.
Ready to fire up some broth?
Start by simmering 2 lbs of beef or chicken bones (preferably organic) in 8 cups of water. You’ll need 1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, as well as a pinch of salt. Your best bet is to use a slow-cooker and simmer for 12-24 hours. Once you do, strain and store in the fridge. All it takes is slowly drinking one cup daily, or if you prefer, you can always use your broth as a nutritious base for other soups.
Given the broth’s powerful gut-healing nutrients, you can improve your gut health as naturally as possible. Drink three times a week, continue for several weeks, and reap the benefits. When used in combination with other safe and healthy foods, bone broth is a game-changer for sure.
3. Electrolyte Water
Dehydration from Crohn’s symptoms, like diarrhea, is another reason for that debilitating fatigue. Not to get too graphic, but when you’re having… bowel issues, they often deplete critical electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. When this happens, you lose cellular energy production and muscle function.
Thankfully, there’s coconut water! This natural electrolyte source is packed with potassium and has a low glycemic index, so it won’t bother people with blood sugar challenges.
Making this electrolyte beverage is simple. First, mix 2 cups of coconut water, 1 cup of filtered water, 1 tbsp of fresh lime juice, 1 tsp of raw honey, and a pinch of sea salt. Give it a solid shake and drink it chilled, especially after a Crohn’s flare-up.
If you don’t like the taste of coconut water, you can always buy pre-made electrolyte beverages or purchase packets that you can then mix together.
As for other homemade remedies? Look into the delicious and nutritious combos of banana-salt smoothies, aloe-lemon blends, and cucumber-mint infusions. Their recipes are simple, and the flavor nuances are great for feeling refreshed and ready to go.
RELATED: 10 Great Recipes For Persons With Crohn’s Disease
4. Oatmeal with Flaxseed
Oats are a low-glycemic, fiber-rich food that is perfect for sustained energy. Best of all, they stabilize blood sugar, a critical issue for many Black individuals. If you’re suffering from energy crashes due to Crohn’s, definitely try this mix. The flaxseeds pack their own punch, too, providing omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which are both linked to lower inflammation. With its soluble fiber, your gut will be soothed and less prone to inflammation or dysfunction.
To begin, cook ½ cup rolled oats in 1 cup water or almond milk until creamy. Then, stir in 1 tbsp ground flaxseed, ½ tsp cinnamon, and a handful of blueberries. To top it all off, drizzle on some maple syrup (if you can tolerate it).
Enjoy it for breakfast or as an energy-boosting snack when you need it most.
5. Turmeric Smoothie
Turmeric has long been known to help with inflammation. Its active compound, curcumin, has repeatedly been shown to reduce TNF-alpha, a cytokine or protein linked to Crohn’s inflammation and fatigue. When combined with black pepper, curcumin’s absorption increases by 2,000%, which is remarkable.
On top of that, the smoothie’s fruit base adds vitamins and natural sugars for a quick energy burst.
To get this smoothie going, first blend 1 cup almond milk, ½ tsp turmeric powder (or 1 inch fresh turmeric), 1 banana, ½ cup mango chunks, a pinch of black pepper, and 1 tsp chia seeds. Start your day off with a smoothie to ensure a stable, healthy gut from the get-go.
You’ll enjoy both a quick energy increase as well as the systemic easing of inflammation, which is critical if Crohn’s impacts multiple parts of your digestive tract.
By integrating these naturopathic remedies into your daily or weekly regimen, you can gain a much better hold on your condition. Crohn’s fatigue may be overwhelming at times, but it does not have to conquer your life. Relish the tastes, feel the benefits, and bring back the energy within.
You’ve got this!
