Perhaps the most dramatic story we have received from a reader was about an unusual diarrhea remedy.

“Awhile back you ran an article concerning chronic diarrhea caused by Crohn’s disease: some people were experiencing relief with cookies (of all things). They were Archway Coconut Macaroons, to be exact.

“Before reading your column I was leading quite a dismal life with ulcerative colitis. I tried prednisone, Cortifoam, and many other drugs that barely relieved symptoms but brought on a host of side effects. None of the drugs left me feeling normal and I knew their long-term use was harmful to my health.

“My family suffered as well, since I had no energy and was miserable. The doctors were suggesting surgery. Life was pretty bad and had been for four years.

“I had made up my mind to go under the knife when my mother saw your article and sent it to me. I went out to buy some of the cookies. I had tried Chinese herbs, acupuncture, and every other alternative, so this one was easy! With all these other treatments I had to go back to the prescribed drugs within two days as the bleeding increased.

“Two days after I started eating the cookies I began feeling better. I was able to quit the medicine immediately and kept eating two cookies per day. My energy returned, the bleeding stopped and the trips to the restroom went from 10 to 12 per day to one or two, all within a few days.

“This was miraculous. My life has been given back to me. I hope you can pass this on to others who may experience similar problems. You have certainly improved life for my whole family!”