Why Crohn’s and Colitis Make You So Tired—And What You Can Do About It

Why Crohn’s and Colitis Make You So Tired—And How to Fight Back

If you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you’ve probably felt exhausted—not just tired, but that deep, bone-crushing fatigue that makes even simple tasks feel impossible. You're not alone. Up to 80% of people with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) experience fatigue at some point【1】. So, why does Crohn’s and colitis zap your energy, and what can you do about it?

Why Fatigue Happens with IBD

Inflammation Takes Its Toll

When your immune system is constantly fighting inflammation, it burns through energy reserves. Even when you're not in an active flare, your body may still be in overdrive, leaving you wiped out【2】.

Malabsorption & Nutrient Deficiencies

Crohn’s and colitis can make it harder to absorb iron, B12, and other key nutrients that fuel your body. Low levels of these nutrients can lead to anemia and chronic fatigue【3】.

Poor Sleep

Frequent trips to the bathroom, pain, and stress make it tough to get restorative sleep. Even if you’re in bed for 8 hours, broken sleep can leave you feeling drained the next day【4】.

Medication Side Effects

Some IBD medications—like steroids, biologics, and immunosuppressants—can cause fatigue as a side effect. If you’re feeling unusually exhausted, it might be worth discussing alternative treatment options with your doctor【5】.

Emotional & Mental Strain

Living with a chronic illness is mentally exhausting. Anxiety, depression, and stress can magnify fatigue, making it feel even harder to push through the day【6】.

How to Fight IBD Fatigue

✔ Prioritize Iron & B12 – If you’re low on iron or B12, talk to your doctor about supplements, iron infusions, or B12 injections to boost your energy.

✔ Hydrate Smartly – Dehydration worsens fatigue, so sip on electrolyte-rich drinks like Liquid I.V. or DripDrop ORS to stay replenished.

✔ Improve Sleep Hygiene – Try a heating pad for cramps, use a white noise machine if bathroom trips keep waking you up, and aim for consistent sleep and wake times.

✔ Balance Activity & Rest – Short walks or light stretching can actually boost energy, but listen to your body and don’t overdo it.

✔ Eat for Energy – Focus on small, nutrient-rich meals with lean protein, healthy fats, and easy-to-digest carbs. Avoid trigger foods that may worsen symptoms.

✔ Ask for Help – Fatigue isn’t just being "lazy"—it’s a real symptom of IBD. Talk to your doctor about treatments and lifestyle changes that can help.

The Bottom Line

Fatigue with Crohn’s and colitis isn’t just about “getting more sleep”—it’s a complex symptom caused by inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, poor sleep, and emotional strain. By nourishing your body, staying hydrated, improving sleep, and pacing yourself, you can take back some control and start feeling like yourself again.

If you’re struggling with severe, unrelenting fatigue, don’t ignore it—bring it up with your doctor to rule out deficiencies or other underlying causes.

You deserve to feel your best!

References:

1. Peyrin-Biroulet, L. et al. (2017). "Fatigue in inflammatory bowel disease: Pathophysiology and clinical management." Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology.

2. Vogelaar, L. et al. (2019). "The Impact of Chronic Inflammation on Energy Levels in IBD Patients." Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis.

3. Gasche, C. et al. (2015). "Iron, Anemia, and IBD: Diagnosis and Treatment." Gastroenterology.

4. Keefer, L. et al. (2016). "Sleep Disturbances in IBD and Their Effect on Fatigue and Quality of Life." Digestive Diseases and Sciences.

5. Bonovas, S. et al. (2021). "Fatigue as an Adverse Effect of IBD Medications: A Systematic Review." Pharmacology & Therapeutics.

6. Taft, T.H. et al. (2019). "Depression, Anxiety, and Fatigue in IBD: Understanding the Mind-Gut Connection." Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Journal.