If you struggle with an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, changing some of your lifestyle choices could benefit your health.

Here are four certain changes that could help ease your symptoms:

1. Changing what you eat. While there is no evidence to suggest that IBD is caused by diet, it is known that certain foods can trigger flare-ups. Dairy, high-fat foods, processed foods, and too much fiber may cause adverse reactions in some patients. Other triggers could be spicy foods, alcohol, and beverages that are carbonated or caffeinated.

2. Changing the way you eat. In addition to changing the foods you eat, you may want to change how much and when you eat. Many IBD patients feel better when they eat smaller and more frequent meals rather than three full meals a day. Because bowel disorders make it difficult to absorb vitamins and essential nutrients from food, you may need to take supplements. Also, drink more water. Water helps flush the system while decreasing your chances of constipation.

MORE: Six tests needed to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease

3. Stop smoking. Smoking is harmful to our health in every way. With Crohn’s disease, smoking is particularly harmful because it can worsen symptoms and increase the frequency of flare-ups.

4. Reduce stress. It’s difficult to completely avoid stress in our lives, but there are ways to reduce it. Regular exercise, getting enough sleep, relaxation techniques such as meditation or Tai Chi, and taking up an enjoyable hobby are all good ways to help you destress.

MORE: Eight signs and symptoms of IBD you should know about

IBD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.