The Crohnie Gift Guide

byLarry Ross Health Writer

And you thoughtyour great-aunt-twice-removed-who-already-has-everything was hard to shop for. What do you buy someone who has serious sensitivities (like the actual gut-wrenching symptoms that come with Crohn's)? Take it from me—I was diagnosed with Crohn's more than 20 years ago—many crohnies love to receive things to help deal with flares or entertaining goodies to beat bedroom boredom. For inspiration, have a look at these 10 comforting gift ideas. As for that great-aunt-twice-removed? Well, you're on your own.

Netflix on tv
Courtesy of Netflix

Streaming Service Subscription

When flares hit, crohnies spend a ton of time in bed, so hook them up with a streaming service that they don't already have (or re-up their current streaming provider of choice). For bonus points, include a list of your favorite must-watch stuff.Disney+,Britbox,Netflix, orHulu

Homesick essential oil diffuser
Courtesy of Homesick

Essential Oil Diffuser

Bring the spa ambiance to them with a room diffuser (this one is so chic, right?). Getting a whiff of essential oils (especially frankincense)—sold separately—helps with nausea and can keep them feeling calm while "stuck" in bed.Homesick Ultrasonic Aroma Oil Diffuser

Sunbeam heating pad
Courtesy of Sunbeam

加热垫

For someone with Crohn's, laying down can cause back spasms and muscle soreness, due to inflammation in the gut area, so a heating pad can help ease discomfort on the spot. This machine-washable, extra-large one covers a lot of ground and comes with four heat settings and a 9-foot cord.Sunbeam Heating Pad

Aqua Nexis Bidet Toilet Sprayer
Courtesy of Aqua Nexis

Bidet

There's nothing worse than feeling unclean during a Crohn's flare. A bum-cleaning bidet—like this easy-install, handheld version—can change someone's life and hygiene.Aqua Nexis Bidet Toilet Sprayer

Vesl Oils citrus CBD tincture
Courtesy of Vesl Oils

CBD Oil Tinctures

Help your favorite Crohnie get quick pain relief from these CBD drops, which studies show help减少不适and improve appetite with no risk of addiction. Also, don't worry about getting "stoned," as these tinctures do not come with any psychoactive effects.Vesl Oils

Gravity Blanket
Courtesy of Gravity Blanket

Weighted Blanket

Cover your bases—and your best Crohnie friend—with a weighted blanket that simulates the feeling of being held or hugged. What's not to love about that? When they're at 7% to 12% of the user's body weight, research shows that these cozy blankets boost serotonin and melatonin levels while lowering cortisol, resulting in a quicker path to sleep.Gravity Blanket

Squatty Potty
Courtesy of Squatty Potty

Squatty Potty

Everybody poops, but for Crohnies it's kind of a big deal. This strategically-designed stool increases the angle of the rectal canal so that users don't have to strain as much when going #2. Don't second guess this potty present—it really would be much appreciated. (And you might want to buy one for yourself!)Squatty Potty

Alexander Del Rossa Fleece Pajamas
Courtesy of Alexander Del Rossa

Comfy Pajamas

It's loungewear but make it fashion. Since Crohnies spend more time at home than they do going out, they'll get more use out of PJs (like these stretchy staples) and other cozy clothes than work attire.Alexander Del Rossa Fleece Pajamas

椰子糖Cocomels
Courtesy of Cocomels

Allergen-free Candy

Most Crohnies miss out on holiday sweets due to belly-bothering allergies. If your BFF has a major sweet tooth, fill a stocking with treats like these that are free from the most common Crohn's allergens (like dairy, gluten, and corn syrup).椰子糖Cocomels

epsom bath salt on wooden surface
iStock

Epsom Salt

Daily aches and pains come with the Crohn's territory. Enter Epsom salt: When poured into a bath, the warmth of the water teamed with the magnesium and sulfate released by the Epsom salt helps relax muscles and loosen stiff joints. Take this gift to the next level by pairing it with a pretty candle and a face mask for the ultimate pamper sesh.Dr. Teal's Pure Epsom Salt

  • CBD and Chronic Pain Study:Journal of Pain Research, (2017), "Pharmacotherapeutic considerations for use of cannabinoids to relieve pain in patients with malignant diseases,"ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

  • Weighted Blanket Research:Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders, (2015), "Positive effects of a weighted blanket on insomnia,"semanticscholar.org

Meet Our Writer
Larry Ross

Larry was born in Los Angeles, CA. They were diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at age 12, CFS, and Rheumatoid Arthritis several years after. Their journey through western medicine to holistic treatment has transcended generations of trauma and toxicity. Larry does not subscribe to the belief Crohn’s is a genetic disease, they believe its a result of direct trauma and the various poison we ingest daily through our food and the media, keep us sick. Larry decided to break free from the system they knew as home to develop their health & now coaches others through their health and wellness journeys. Larry utilizes social media to empower those diagnosed with and in the negative cycle of chronic illness.