Crohn's disease is a serious condition that can affect the daily functions and quality of life for a person. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Crohn's disease affects only two to seven out of every 100,000 people. It causes chronic inflammation of the intestines. This leads to chronic diarrhea, pain in the abdominal area, fevers and other uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms can be severe at some times and mild at others. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that the cause of Crohn's disease is still unknown. People with Crohn's disease need to watch their diet every single day because the foods they eat can worsen or improve their symptoms.
Apples
Apples are one of the best foods for people with Crohn's disease to snack on, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It states that fruits like apples, which are high in fiber, can reduce the occurrence and severity of symptoms when eaten regularly. It also states that snacking often instead of eating three large meals a day can benefit people with Crohn's disease. Some people may be bothered physically by eating too much fiber when the symptoms are severe, yet as long as they are handled well by the individual, apples can help.
Whole Milk
Whole milk can affect people with Crohn's disease in a negative way by worsening their symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that foods high in fat tend to aggravate the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Dairy products can also worsen symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal cramping in those with the disease. Instead of whole milk, people with Crohn's disease may want to switch to rice milk or soy milk.
Chili Peppers
Although they add flavor to foods, chili peppers can also aggravate the symptoms of Crohn's disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It explains that anything spicy can increase the pain and inflammation in the intestines, so it is best for people with Crohn's disease to choose bland foods instead.
Whole Wheat Bread
Whole wheat bread can improve the symptoms of Crohn's disease because it is rich in dietary fiber as well as vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals are important for people with Crohn's disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, since they often lose vitamins through diarrhea and suffer from occasional malabsorption. The fiber in whole wheat bread can also help to reduce the frequency of major flare-ups for people with Crohn's.
