Jeff Hordley, best known for playing Cain Dingle on Emmerdale, has opened up about his long-term battle with Crohn’s disease.
Despite living with the chronic condition for decades, the 54-year-old actor has managed to control his symptoms without medication—all thanks to a key lifestyle change.
Crohn’s disease is a serious inflammatory bowel condition that affects around 115,000 people in the UK, with symptoms including abdominal pain, fatigue, and digestive issues.
However, Jeff has found a natural way to manage his health, avoiding the need for prescription treatments.
Jeff Hordley’s Approach to Managing Crohn’s Disease
During an appearance on the Another Day Another Collar podcast, Jeff shared how he has successfully kept his Crohn’s symptoms in check.
His secret? A carefully managed diet and a commitment to healthy living.
“I’ve had Crohn’s since I was 24, 25, and I’ve now managed to keep it under wraps because of diet,” he revealed.
Rather than relying on medication, Jeff has focused on a diet rich in fresh, seasonal produce. He and his wife, actress Zoe Henry, grow their own fruits and vegetables on an allotment, which has significantly improved his health.
“We eat very much seasonally; we eat from our allotment, from definitely June through to now,” he explained.
Alongside his diet, Jeff prioritizes regular exercise, which he credits for helping him stay in control of his condition. While he acknowledges that this approach may not work for every Crohn’s sufferer, it has allowed him to avoid taking medication.
“I’ve managed to avoid any medication, which not every Crohn’s sufferer manages to do, but that’s the way I’ve managed it.”
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
Jeff believes that too many people seek “quick fixes” when it comes to their health, rather than addressing the root causes of their issues.
“People look for a tablet rather than looking holistically at their rest, their exercise, what they’re putting in their bodies,” he noted.
This mindset, he believes, is part of the “modern way” of treating illnesses, where people often rely on medication without making lifestyle adjustments. By focusing on diet, exercise, and overall wellness, Jeff has been able to keep his symptoms under control for years.
Living with Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a lifelong condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It is one of the two main types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), alongside ulcerative colitis.
The condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Stomach pain and cramping
- Blood in the stool
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Some people experience constant symptoms, while others go through periods of remission and flare-ups. According to the NHS, anyone experiencing prolonged digestive issues, blood in their stool, or unexplained weight loss should seek medical advice.
Jeff’s Personal Journey with Crohn’s
Jeff was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in his early twenties, shortly after the loss of his mother, who also suffered from the condition. The diagnosis was a difficult moment for him, and at the time, he feared it would impact his dream of becoming an actor.
His wife, Emmerdale co-star Zoe Henry, has spoken publicly about how his health battle has shaped their lives. During an appearance on Loose Women, she shared that Jeff’s diagnosis was life-changing for them both.
Despite the challenges, Jeff has remained determined to raise awareness about Crohn’s. He has worked closely with Crohn’s & Colitis UK, encouraging those affected to seek support and not feel isolated.
“You are not alone if you are suffering from Crohn’s or Colitis… although sometimes you might feel as if you are,” he said.
Raising Awareness and Offering Hope
By speaking openly about his experiences, Jeff Hordley has helped to shed light on Crohn’s disease and the importance of lifestyle choices in managing chronic conditions. While not everyone with Crohn’s can avoid medication, his story serves as an inspiration for those looking to take control of their health.
For the 115,000 people in the UK living with Crohn’s, Jeff’s journey is a powerful reminder that diet and exercise can play a crucial role in managing the condition. His commitment to a natural, holistic approach has not only allowed him to continue his successful acting career but also given hope to others facing similar struggles.
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