How to Combat Crohn’s Disease Fatigue and Tiredness

Danielle Gaffen, MS, RDN, LD

Last Updated July 8, 2024

Co-written by Alexandra Constantine

Fatigue is a common and challenging side effect for many individuals living with Crohn’s disease. This persistent tiredness can significantly impact daily life, affecting work, hobbies, and emotional well-being.

As both a registered dietitian specializing in IBD and the spouse of someone with Crohn’s disease, I have witnessed firsthand how debilitating fatigue can be. My husband has struggled with this symptom, and many of my patients have shared their own battles with relentless tiredness.

If you are experiencing fatigue associated with Crohn’s disease, read on to discover effective strategies for managing and overcoming this symptom.

What Does Crohn’s Fatigue Feel Like?

Fatigue can feel like never-ending tiredness, a lack of energy, or a feeling of exhaustion that does not go away after rest or sleep. It can be:

Physical: Low energy or strength, feelings of heaviness
Mental: A feeling of “brain fog”, low motivation, alertness, or concentration
A combination of both physical and mental fatigue symptoms

Why Does Crohn’s Disease Cause Fatigue?

Fatigue in Crohn’s disease can be attributed to several factors:

Inflammation of the gut: Triggers fatigue through inflammatory responses.
Anemia: The most common anemia in Crohn’s is iron deficiency anemia. Learn more about Iron Deficiency Anemia.
Psychological factors: Depressive mood, stress, anxiety, and impaired quality of life are strongly associated with fatigue. These symptoms are more common in Crohn’s patients than in the general population.
Sleep disturbance: Disrupted or restless sleep and multiple awakenings occur more frequently compared to the general population.
Nutrient deficiencies: Crohn’s patients are at higher risk of nutrient deficiencies due to chronic inflammation, malabsorption, and restrictive diets. Common deficiencies include Vitamin D, B12, and magnesium.

Key Nutrient Deficiencies That Can Lead to Fatigue

With inflammatory bowel disease, specifically Crohn’s disease, a loss of appetite or impaired absorption may be observed in patients, contributing to nutrient deficiencies.

Two key nutrients that can lead to fatigue are iron and vitamin B12. Symptoms associated with these deficiencies include:

Iron: Sleepiness, headache, lack of appetite, nausea, pale appearance.
Vitamin B12: Cognitive decline, constipation/diarrhea, confusion, poor memory.

For more information about nutrient deficiencies and IBD, I’ve prepared an IBD Nutrient Deficiencies Chart for key nutrients to be aware of.

Nutrition and Diet for Crohn’s Fatigue

While foods do not cause Crohn’s disease, they can trigger symptoms such as fatigue. Consulting with a registered dietitian can help you navigate food choices and create a personalized food plan. Here are some general, healthful eating tips for Crohn’s disease:

Eat small meals or snacks every 3 to 4 hours.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking small amounts of water continuously throughout the day.
Introduce new foods one at a time, in small amounts.
During flare-ups, follow the recommended food list provided for you.
Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, ginger, fatty fish, and leafy greens.

The main goal is to minimize symptoms and continue eating throughout the day, even when faced with chronic fatigue and tiredness.

Exercise for Crohn’s Fatigue

Individuals living with Crohn’s often engage in less physical activity due to feelings of tiredness and fatigue. However, research has shown that exercise positively impacts fatigue in Crohn’s patients. Here are some tips for exercise and Crohn’s disease:

Opt for low-impact/moderate exertion exercises:
- Walking
- Bicycling
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Using an elliptical machine
Try out different activities to find what you enjoy.
If exercising outside, choose routes that allow for bathroom breaks when needed.
Listen to your body. If you need to rest due to a symptom flare-up, take time off until your symptoms are under control.
For beginners, start with short, manageable activities and gradually increase duration and intensity.

How to Fight Fatigue from Crohn’s Disease

To combat fatigue from Crohn’s disease, consider the following strategies:

Manage iron and vitamin deficiencies by incorporating foods rich in these nutrients or using supplements.
Review all medications with your healthcare provider to identify any contributing side effects.
Reduce psychological and emotional stress through counseling, mindfulness practices, or support groups.
Improve your sleep routine with tips such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding screens before bedtime.

Fatigue and tiredness from Crohn’s disease are nagging symptoms that can make everyday life challenging. Work closely with your registered dietitian and other healthcare providers to help identify and manage your fatigue symptoms.

References

About the Author

Danielle Gaffen, MS, RDN, LD

Understanding the link between nutrition and gut disease prompted me to obtain my master’s degree in Nutritional Sciences at San Diego State University and become an IBD Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Now I work with people who have Crohn’s and colitis who are struggling with confusion around what to eat. My favorite part is helping them to build confidence to eat without fear while managing their symptoms.