Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): How lifestyle and diet changes can help ease anxiety and embarrassment

Cure for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Diet is often the first place patients seek answers. A fibre intake of 13–33 grams daily is safe for Crohn’s patients, but during flare-ups, soft, cooked foods are better tolerated (Image: Pexels)

Stomach pain, diarrhoea or fatigue often seem like common issues. But for those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), these symptoms can be extremely challenging. Doctors caution that treatment is not confined to pills or hospital words. It requires empathy, lifestyle changes, emotional aid, and also digital tools that brings support closer to patients.

IBD can alter daily life. It causes not just abdominal pain and urgent bathroom trips, but also embarrassment and isolation. "It impacts  mental health, productivity, and relationships,” says Dr Vaibhav Somani, Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Bombay Hospital.

“More than 7 million people worldwide suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and India is reporting a sharp rise. While medicines and advanced therapies form the foundation of treatment, long-term care rests equally on lifestyle, counselling, and technology that help patients regain a sense of control,” he adds.

Also read | Causes of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): From antibiotics to urban diets, here's what causes unexplained gut symptoms

Symptoms of IBD

The symptoms often extend far beyond the clinic. “Patients speak of carrying the burden of unpredictability, the fear of flare-ups during meetings, at school, or in public spaces,” says Dr Somani. Research shows that more than half of IBD patients report anxiety, while many struggle with career and education. “Care for IBD must be holistic, with attention to diet, exercise, stress and empathy from families and employers,” he suggests. Growing awareness in India, he adds, can prevent patients from feeling abandoned in their journey.

How to care for IBD patients

Food options: Diet is often the first place patients seek answers. A fibre intake of 13–33 grams daily is safe for Crohn’s patients, but during flare-ups, soft, cooked foods are better tolerated.

Gentle exercise and reducing stress: Walking, yoga, or swimming can ease fatigue and strengthen emotional resilience. Stress, a known trigger, can be managed through counselling, breathing techniques, or mindfulness methods that research shows improve quality of life.

Also read | Symptoms of digestive disorders: Abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue are warning signs

Digital tools in daily care: Telemedicine spares patients long journeys for consultations. Mobile apps now help track food triggers, symptoms, and medication adherence. “Such tools reduce hospital visits and empower patients,” notes Dr Somani.

Empathy and healing: A listening ear at home or flexibility at the workplace can ease the invisible struggles of IBD. Psychological counselling, still scarce in India, is crucial for addressing anxiety and depression.

Medicines and more: Biologic therapies like anti-TNF drugs have improved treatment, but consistency of access remains key. Government programmes are slowly widening reach, yet awareness and social support remain just as vital for Indian patients.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.