The festive season is a time of joy, celebration, and indulgence, often filled with family gatherings, parties, and an abundance of food.

However, for individuals with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—two major types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—this season can pose unique challenges.

The combination of dietary temptations, stress, disrupted routines, and exposure to trigger foods can lead to flare-ups, resulting in discomfort and complications.

If you’re living with Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, you can still enjoy the festive season while maintaining control over your health.

With proper planning, mindfulness, and lifestyle adjustments, you can reduce the risk of flare-ups and make the most of this joyous time of year.

In this article, we’ll discuss essential tips for navigating the festive season while managing IBD effectively.

Understanding Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic conditions that cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. 

• Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus, but most commonly involves the small intestine and colon. Inflammation often occurs in patches and may extend deep into the bowel walls.
• Ulcerative colitis, on the other hand, is limited to the colon and rectum, with inflammation and ulcers primarily affecting the inner lining of the colon.

Both conditions can cause similar symptoms, including:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Blood in the stool 

Flare-ups—periods of active inflammation—can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Certain foods
• Stress
• Infections
• Medication

Challenges During the Festive Season

The holiday period often brings disruptions to normal routines, which can be challenging for individuals with IBD.

Common triggers during this time include: 

• Dietary temptations: Festive meals often involve rich, fatty, spicy, or sugary foods, which can exacerbate symptoms.
• Alcohol and caffeine: Increased consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages can irritate the GI tract and trigger symptoms.
• Stress: Holiday stress from travel, hosting, or family dynamics can aggravate IBD.
• Irregular schedules: Skipping meals, overeating, or changing medication timing can disrupt your body’s equilibrium.
• Sleep disruption: Late nights and altered sleep patterns can affect gut health and immune function.

Strategies for Preventing Flare-ups

While the festive season can be challenging, it’s possible to manage Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis effectively with the following strategies: 

1. Stick to Your Dietary Plan

Your diet plays a significant role in managing IBD.
During the festive season, prioritize foods that you know are safe for your condition while avoiding known triggers. 

• Plan ahead: If you’re attending a holiday gathering, let the host know about your dietary restrictions or bring a dish you can safely enjoy.
• Portion control: If you want to sample festive treats, do so in small portions to avoid overwhelming your digestive system.
• Avoid trigger foods: Common IBD triggers include high-fat, high-fiber, or spicy foods, as well as carbonated beverages. Be cautious when trying unfamiliar dishes.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can worsen IBD symptoms, especially if you’re experiencing diarrhea. 

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Limit alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as these can dehydrate the body and irritate the gut.
• If you do consume alcohol, choose low-alcohol options and alternate with water to stay hydrated.

3. Manage Stress Levels

The festive season can be a stressful time, but stress is a well-known trigger for IBD flare-ups. 

• Practice mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you stay calm and reduce anxiety.
• Set boundaries: Don’t overcommit to social events or responsibilities that may overwhelm you. Prioritize your health.
• Take breaks: If you’re feeling stressed during gatherings, step away for a moment of quiet or a short walk to regroup.

4. Maintain Your Medication Routine

It’s crucial to adhere to your prescribed medication regimen to prevent flare-ups, even during busy holiday schedules. 

• Set reminders: Use alarms or apps to remind you to take your medication at the correct times.
• Pack your medications: If you’re traveling, ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip, along with prescriptions for emergencies.
• Communicate with your doctor: Let your healthcare provider know if you’re planning to travel or if you have concerns about managing your condition during the holidays.

5. Prioritize Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for overall health and immune function, both of which are critical for managing IBD. 

• Stick to a regular sleep schedule, even during late-night celebrations.
• Create a calming bedtime routine to help you wind down.
• Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before bed, as these can disrupt sleep quality.

6. Prepare for Travel

Traveling during the holidays can be stressful, but with proper preparation, you can minimize the impact on your condition. 

• Pack snacks: Bring safe, non-perishable snacks like crackers, rice cakes, or applesauce for long journeys.
• Research your destination: Familiarize yourself with nearby pharmacies and medical facilities.
• Stay active: Move around during long flights or car rides to prevent bloating and discomfort.

7. Communicate with Loved Ones

Don’t hesitate to talk openly about your condition with family and friends. 

• Educate them about your dietary needs and potential triggers so they can support you.
• Let them know if you need to step away from an event to rest or manage symptoms.

Safe Festive Foods for IBD

While trigger foods vary for each person, here are some generally safe options for individuals with IBD during the holidays: 

• Lean proteins: Turkey, chicken, or fish (grilled or baked, not fried).
• Cooked vegetables: Avoid raw, cruciferous, or fibrous vegetables and opt for well-cooked options like carrots, zucchini, or green beans.
• Low-fiber carbohydrates: Mashed potatoes (without heavy cream or butter), white bread, or rice.
• Fruit alternatives: Applesauce or canned fruits without added sugar.

Recognizing Flare-up Warning Signs

Despite your best efforts, flare-ups can sometimes occur. Be vigilant about early warning signs, such as: 

• Increased abdominal pain or cramping.
• More frequent or severe diarrhea.
• Blood in the stool.
• Unexplained fatigue or fever.

If you notice these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly to address the issue before it worsens. 

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild flare-ups can often be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, including: 

• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep food down.
• Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve.
• Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or dark urine.
• High fever or signs of infection.

Conclusion

The festive season doesn’t have to be a source of stress or discomfort for individuals with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

By planning ahead, staying mindful of your triggers, and prioritizing self-care, you can enjoy the celebrations while minimizing the risk of flare-ups.

Remember, your health comes first. Take proactive steps to manage your condition, and don’t hesitate to seek support from loved ones or your healthcare team when needed. With the right strategies, you can embrace the festive spirit while maintaining control over your IBD. 

Happy holidays, and here’s to a healthy and joyful season! 

Contact Dr. Gosia George

Dr Gosia George and Dr Eduan  Deetlefs are clinical investigators at Spoke Research Inc and became involved in Clinical Research in 2017, and now runs the Inflammatory Bowel Disease trials.

If you’d like to take part in a clinical trial, join us here:

Apply for Crohn’s Disease Trial

Apply for Ulcerative Colitis Trial

We are here to provide you with expert medical advice in the field of clinical research with years of experience.

Contact us to find out more on clinical trials and treatment.