Mesha Moinirad on Crohn’s, stoma confidence and learning to back his body

01/07/20262 min read

Crohn's, colitis, a stoma bag and a 20% chance of survival. Mesha Moinirad joins Ellie Taylor and opens up about the challenges that shaped him and the mindset that helped him rebuild

Known online as Mr. Colitis Crohn’s, Mesha has built a huge community by speaking openly about Crohn’s, colitis and life with a stoma bag – helping to break down stigma and show that life after surgery can still be active, ambitious and full. In this episode of Back Your Body, he talks about the health crisis that changed everything, from being given a 20% chance of survival to learning to rebuild his strength. Plus, H&B Science Guy Alex Glover, drops in to talk about the science behind vitamin B12.

Please note: in this episode, we discuss some serious subjects, including suicide and trauma. If that feels too much right now, please come back to it another time or listen to another episode of Back Your Body.

“When I train, I’m not worried about having a six pack. I’m more thinking about how functional my body is and how it’s carried me through something incredible”

Timestamps

[00:00] Intro: Meet Mesha (Mr Colitis Crohn's)

[01:20] Living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis

[02:15] Mesha's 20% chance of survival

[04:02] Mesha's first symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

[05:17] Why Mesha chose to have a stoma fitted

[05:54] What is a stoma bag? (Explained simply)

[06:56] Living with a stoma: Food, hydration & daily life

[08:28] How chronic illness changed his body image

[10:52] Building 7 million followers by talking about stomas

[13:39] How many people live with a stoma?

[15:52] Coaching people living with stomas

[17:22] Can you exercise with a stoma? Fitness tips & risks

[18:00] Why Holland & Barrett sponsors Mesha's brain

[18:26] Mental health, trauma & learning to accept a chronic illness

[19:54] Why exercise saved Mesha's life

[20:41] A simple trick for managing stress & anxiety

[21:24] What Mesha would tell his 18-year-old self

[22:34] The best & worst health advice I've ever received

[25:18] Science Break: Vitamin B12 with Alex Glover

[27:21] The Stack: Quick-fire questions

[29:51] Final advice for anyone facing health challenges

“Just because it’s a no in one area, it doesn’t mean it’s not a yes in another”

Products discussed

Mesha discussed the following products in this episode:

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Disclaimer – The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Holland & Barrett. The content is intended for general conversation and informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical, nutritional or other professional advice. If you are considering taking any supplements or products mentioned, please consult a qualified healthcare professional or speak to one of our qualified in-store colleagues before doing so. Listener discretion is advised, as some topics discussed may be sensitive or potentially triggering.