“I tackle each flare or setback on its own and don’t let it affect the big picture of my life. Learn to listen to your body -- your gut. I’m always aware of what I need: more fluid, less stress. It isn’t always easy to give your body what it needs, but take care of yourself and take time for yourself.” -- Natalie Rosenthal, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Atlanta

“I find that my patients who have a positive outlook on life, healthy hobbies, eat well, and have a strong support network of friends and family do best. There are a lot of data showing that the mind-to-gut relationship is strong. A healthy attitude leads to a healthier life with Crohn’s disease.” -- Miguel Regueiro, MD, Cleveland Clinic

“Support groups let you connect with other people going through the same experiences. Crohn’s can be lonely. You don’t want to talk about it because it involves bathroom habits. Find a support group or network of family and friends who support you as you need to be supported.” -- Sherri Wildstein, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Atlanta

“People with Crohn’s disease should aim and expect to have completely normal lives unimpeded by their illness. To achieve this requires a collaborative team effort between you and your physician. Lifestyle, treatment preferences, and standard of care treatment will help you achieve a state of good health and normal quality of life.” -- Ashwin Ananthakrishnan, MD, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

“Expect to be well. The symptoms that led you to your diagnosis are not your new normal. You should be able to get into remission and do all the things that you want to do: jobs, trips you want to take, relationships. Patients are the experts on your own body.” -- Sushila Dalal, MD, University of Chicago