Are you always exhausted? If so, you're not alone. Up to 72% of people with active Crohn's or colitis experience fatigue compared with 47% of those in remission (1).

What may be causing your fatigue?
According to a recent study, the most common risk factors for fatigue included:
- Sleep disturbances (such as nighttime bowel movements or pain)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anemia (a condition where your red blood cells don’t carry enough oxygen to your body)
Other factors that may contribute to fatigue include:
- Iron deficiency
- Infections
- Certain medications
- Other medical conditions (such as IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic pain syndrome)
- Malnutrition
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Dehydration
- A lack of exercise

How can you feel less tired with Crohn’s/colitis?
- Ask your doctor to check your labs regularly (download our free guide on what labs to ask for)
- Work with a dietitian with experience treating IBD (like us!) to make sure you’re getting the right amount and type of nutrients to optimize your energy levels
- Practice stress and anxiety management (like meditation, yoga, diaphragmatic breathing, mindfulness)
- If you’re feeling depressed, ask your doctor or dietitian for a referral to a gut-specific therapist
- Exercise regularly - even short, low-intensity exercise is be beneficial
- Stay well hydrated
- Prioritize sleep - implement sleep hygiene techniques such as setting a consistent bedtime and avoiding large meals or alcohol before bed and work with your doctor to identify the root cause of your sleep disturbances

References
- D'Silva A, Fox DE, Nasser Y, Vallance JK, Quinn RR, Ronksley PE, Raman M. Prevalence and Risk Factors for Fatigue in Adults With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2022 May;20(5):995-1009.e7. doi: 10.1016/j.cgh.2021.06.034. Epub 2021 Jun 30. PMID: 34216824.