Protein Powder and Crohn's disease

amrluvarr

I would really like to add more protein to my diet, especially in the morning. I don't tolerate food very well in the morning so I like to have a smoothie for breakfast. I was thinking of protein powder but afraid this could trigger a flare. I have to be very careful with highly processed foods. I've narrowed it down to two types: Garden of Life protein or Body by Vi. I've never had Garden of Life products. What are your thoughts on the product and taste? I tried Body by Vi before and I liked the taste and had no negative affects but I'm worried it's too processed. Any other suggestions?

deaddawn

Pulverized flax seed? I don't know how it would affect Crohn's but it's a high protein whole food.

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/nut-and-seed-products/3163/2

knra_grl

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20559874_9,00.html

Try eggs or egg whites?

AHASRADA

I've used the Garden of Life Chocolate Kiss flavored vegan protein powder for over a month (just finished the tub). I've also tried chocolate flavored Lean Whey brand whey protein, to compare. I actually think the Garden of Life flavor is a bit more intense, stronger than the whey, more of a dark chocolate type of flavor. I wasn't super excited about it at first, but it grew on me and now I actually like it better than the whey. It is definitely grittier than whey protein, but it mixes much better. I wouldn't be able to stomach it mixed with water, but in a smoothie I think it would be quite good. I mix it with kefir just shaking it in a jar and it mixes well. In a blender with a bunch of other goodies should be nice.

I don't have any health issues so I can't comment on the way the protein powder might affect your health, sorry.

knra_grl

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20559874_9,00.html

Try eggs or egg whites?

the article also recommends smooth nut butters so you could add some to your smoothies

YorriaRaine

My father has Crohn's disease and takes whey fairly often, however I know he kept switching brands and pawning off certain ones to friends and tried others. I never asked him the nitty gritty details as to why but I'm assuming it is because he had flare ups. However, he has bought several 2 lb batches of optimum nutrition brand. I'm assuming he doesn't have flare ups with those.

edit:
I kinda just wanted to add a side note. You should talk to your doctor before really starting any supplements including whey protein.

amrluvarr

Thanks for all the suggestions! I actually have an appointment with my GI doctor this Friday. So hopefully she will have some suggestions as well.