Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

Riley: Chron’s Disease Patient Journey Through Life

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

Chasity Shell

Mar 30, 2023

Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

In this interview, Rylie (family friend), a 36-year-old Crohn's patient, and I talked about

her condition. The digestive tract is impacted by Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel

condition. I hoped to learn more about Sarah's personal experience with the illness, the dietary

adjustments she has made to manage her symptoms, and how Crohn's disease has affected her

life through this interview. The data acquired will shed light on the good parts of those with

Crohn's disease's journey as well as useful insights into the difficulties they experience.

The digestive system is the main area of concern for Crohn's disease, which is a chronic

inflammatory disorder that also damages the lining of the intestines. Abdominal pain, diarrhea,

weight loss, exhaustion, and starvation are typical symptoms. Although the precise cause of

Crohn's disease is unknown, it is thought to be a result of a confluence of the immune system,

environmental, and genetic variables. In order to control the symptoms and lower inflammation

in people with Crohn's disease, dietary adjustments are frequently required. Avoiding certain

trigger foods, increasing intake of nutrient-dense foods, and carefully collaborating with a trained

dietitian to ensure optimal nutrition may all be part of these improvements.

Interview:

Q: “When were you diagnosed with Crohn's disease, Sarah?”

Rylie: “When I was 23 years old, I received a Crohn's disease diagnosis. It was a difficult period

for me since I was losing weight, having diarrhea, and experiencing significant abdominal
Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

discomfort without knowing what was causing it. I eventually learned the diagnosis after going

through a number of tests and professional visits.”

Q: How would you describe Crohn's disease from your perspective?

Rylie: My life has been significantly impacted by Crohn's illness. It's an undetectable ailment

that keeps reminding me of its existence. I frequently get flare-ups that produce excruciating

stomach discomfort and interfere with my everyday routines. It is also emotionally difficult due

to the unpredictable nature of the symptoms and the fear of embarrassing circumstances.

Q: What dietary changes have you made to manage your condition?

Rylie: In order to control my illness, I had to adjust my diet quite a bit. Eliminating trigger foods,

such as spicy foods, dairy products, and specific high-fiber foods, that worsen inflammation was

one of the most important changes I made. I now consume foods that are simple to digest during

flare-ups, such as prepared veggies, lean proteins, and well-cooked grains. To make sure I'm

getting the right nutrients, I also take vitamins.

Q: Can you provide an example of your daily menu and food preferences?

Rylie: For me, a normal day begins with a bowl of oats with almond butter and a banana on top. I

often eat grilled chicken breast, steamed carrots, and mashed potatoes for lunch. Rice cakes,

yogurt, and a tiny amount of almonds are included as snacks. Fish is baked for dinner together
Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

with quinoa and roasted zucchini. I've come to appreciate these straightforward yet filling

dinners.

Q: What challenges do you face in managing your condition, both socially and nutritionally?

Rylie: It can be awkward to explain my dietary restrictions to friends and family in social

situations, particularly when going out to eat. Some individuals find it challenging to

comprehend how particular foods can affect my health. It takes ongoing work to make sure I'm

eating enough to suit my needs while avoiding trigger items. This necessitates meticulous food

preparation and frequent meetings with a trained dietician.

Q: How has Crohn's disease impacted your life, both negatively and positively?

Rylie: Undoubtedly, Crohn's disease has brought me many obstacles, but it has also helped me

develop my resilience and understand the need of self-care. It has permitted me to put my health

first and make deliberate dietary and lifestyle choices.

I learned a lot about the effects of this chronic illness on Rylie's life through our chat.

Rylie is a brave woman who battles Crohn's disease. The symptoms of Crohn's disease, a chronic

inflammatory bowel illness, include malnutrition, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. But Rylie's

fortitude and commitment to controlling her disease through dietary adjustments have been

admirable.
Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

Rylie's experience with Crohn's disease serves as a testament to the importance of good

nutrition and the demand for individualized dietary modifications. Rylie has taken proactive

measures to reduce her symptoms and maintain a healthy diet by avoiding trigger foods and

adhering to a low-residue diet when they occur.

Chasity Shell

Food & Nutrition II Honors

Honors Project: Special Diets Interview Project

REFERENCE PAGE

- Mayo Clinic: Chron's Disease

- Harvard: Chron's Disease

- Medical News Today