Going Backwards?

[Annecz]

Hello,

I’ve been in remission from MC for about 11 months. I’ve been very careful with my diet, eating much of the same foods repeatedly—while also trying new foods slowly (testing for three days). Most of the new food seems to work without issues.

There’s been no D in the last 11 months—just occasional bloating if I eat too much of one food and will disappear quickly. The stools were consistently a #4 on the Bristol scale; but in the past few months, the majority have been a #5. If I increase my fiber intake, I can sometimes get back to an occasional #4. The BM frequency has also increased where it occurs usually after eating small meals or large snacks. Previously, I’d have #4 once or twice per day. With the recent smaller stools, there’s also been mucus.

Recently, I haven’t been very good about my water intake (working on that part), and my stress level has increased substantially. Could the stress be contributing to the mucus, or is it possible that one of the new foods I’ve added has caused problems—in the absence of D, abdominal pain, etc.?

Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated.

Thank you!
Anne

[Gabes-Apg]

Hi there Anne

Stress can be a trigger for many in this group - Physical, mental or emotional stress

Regarding the foods, one thing I had found over my MC journey is that foods fell into four categories

1. Daily staples. can eat them every day
2. small amounts. can only eat 2-3 serves per week
3. Rare treats small serve every couple of months
4. never ever again!

A food may have passed the 3 small serves test, but if eaten regularly it may cause too much inflammation
Additionally, if the body is reacting to stress and inflammation has increased, then you may be more sensitive to some of the ingredients.

During periods of increased stress I try to slot back to bland staples to minimise inflammation
I also increase Vit D3 and magnesium intake to help reduce the inflammation

hope this helps

[Annecz]

Thank you Gabes for your speedy reply! I'll increase the VD and magnesium and go back to my staples. I appreciate your advice as always!
--Anne