alcohol

ok, i know this isn't about UC but this is the best support i have. i have decided to get rid of alcohol in my life. not only does it make me flare but i have been using it as a crutch to get out of feeling bad about my colitis. i think this is going to be hard, but i know it is best for me and my body....

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katie
22
diagnosed with cecal volvulus, 2006; two colon resections in the same year
diagnosed with colitis 2007
malrotated colon
no cecal valve, removed during surgery

VSL #3
Flagyl to slow gastric emptying

VERY wise decision! :)

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Way to go! I agree with Red - VERY wise decision!

We're here for support! It will be a tough go, but you CAN do it!

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Pan-colitis and GERD diagnosed May 2003

 

Asacol 12 per day,  Azathioprine 75mg, Rowasa and Canasa as needed

Aciphex, Effexor XR, BCP, Rhinocort nasal spray

Culturelle, Biotin, Folic Acid, Forvia, Calcium, and B12

 

Osteopenia (hip and spine) from prednisone use.  Started Azathioprine because I was steroid dependent.

 

Co-Mod for the UC forum

Keep HealingWell running smoothly:  www.healingwell.com/donate

Great decision! I have personal experience with someone who used alcohol to mask the pain of UC/depression with horrible results. If you are feeling depressed in any way from your UC, a better option is to talk with a therapist. You are a wise young lady Katie, and kudos from me for taking responsibilty for yourself and your body.

Way to go, good decision

Janice

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Good job on your decision. I am in the same boat too. Gave it up little over a month ago.

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Ash 39 NH, vegetarian
Diagnosed with UC July 06 (I think 6/6/6) during 10 day hospitalization
Current meds: Asacol 12, Imuran 150mg
Centrum Silver, Primadophilus Reuteri, DHA-Omega 3, L-glutamine

ash, has it been hard? any tips? i am worried about how difficult it is going to be because i feel as though i have become very dependent on it...

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katie
22
diagnosed with cecal volvulus, 2006; two colon resections in the same year
diagnosed with colitis 2007
malrotated colon
no cecal valve, removed during surgery

VSL #3
Flagyl to slow gastric emptying

Well, I was never much of a drinker anyway. More of a social drinker, so it hasn't been that difficult for me. Even if I get tempted, I just remind myself that the sacrifice is worth it. Much like my food diet, I am sure first week or two will be the most difficult for you and then you may not even end up missing it, especially if it helps with your UC symptoms. Just hang in there.. I wish the best for you.

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Ash 39 NH, vegetarian
Diagnosed with UC July 06 (I think 6/6/6) during 10 day hospitalization
Current meds: Asacol 12, Imuran 150mg
Centrum Silver, Primadophilus Reuteri, DHA-Omega 3, L-glutamine

Birdie, what other things do you like to do to make you relax and take your mind off things? For instance, my relaxant is exercise or just chilling and listening to music and reading a book. Even cooking/baking (although I don't eat a lot of it...I bring it in to work) are some things I like to do to make me feel better.

I gave up alcohol years ago b/c bad for my UC and I was starting to feel physically bad--for days--after I would drink, just wasn't worth it anymore.  The other thing is that alcohol is toxic to the body, that's why we get drunk.  I am struck by how difficult it is for you to give it up, do you think your "addicted."  If you have any dependence on alcohol, it may be very difficult to give it up on your own, you may need support, community or professional.  Just a thought.

i'm not sure hoe dependent on it i am, i guess that is why i am trying to quit. if i find it too hard, i might consider AA. i also exercise and bake as relaxation. so my office is going to be very happy with me :)

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katie
22
diagnosed with cecal volvulus, 2006; two colon resections in the same year
diagnosed with colitis 2007
malrotated colon
no cecal valve, removed during surgery

VSL #3
Flagyl to slow gastric emptying