Inflammatory bowel diseases, or IBDs, encompass a variety of conditions, including Crohn's disease. It is a chronic disease that usually affects the small intestine and colon, involving inflammation of tissues in the digestive tract. This is thought to be a reaction by the body's own immune system, says the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Due to the nutritional demands of a chronic disease and the location in which the disease occurs, many individuals with the disease experience nutritional deficiencies or imbalances.
Significance
According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, approximately 1.4 million Americans live with IBD, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Males and females are affected by the disease in equal numbers. Although the disease can be diagnosed at any age, the majority of diagnoses are made in those between the ages of 15 and 35, says the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.
Features
A hallmark of Crohn's disease is the inflammation present in the intestines. This inflammation can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea and malnutrition, according to the Mayo Clinic. The inflammation can interfere with the body's ability to absorb nutrients and can lead to anemia. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, malnutrition is typically seen when the disease is widespread and has existed for a long period of time. This can lead to an individual not eating enough because of the chronic pain or discomfort, and the body's inability to take in all the nutrients needed to be healthy. Deficiencies usually are seen in protein, calories and vitamins.
Nutrition and Crohn's Disease
Individuals with chronic diseases need adequate nutrition because of the stress on the body and the need to maintain health. According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, chronic disease increases caloric needs in individuals, making it even more important that the individual has good nutrition. In Crohn's disease, individuals with the disease may not have an appetite, leading to under-consumption of calories and nutrients. The disease also interferes with the body's abilities to absorb fats, proteins, carbohydrates and water, which can deprive the body of necessary vitamins and minerals, says the Foundation.
Considerations
Diet adjustments for Crohn's disease that can help bolster nutrition and are easier on the stomach can include limiting dairy products, eating foods lower in fat to increase their absorption, drinking plenty of fluids and limiting consumption of caffeinated drinks and eating smaller meals more often, says the Mayo Clinic. The University of California San Francisco Medical Center also suggests taking multivitamin supplements because chronic inflammation or the removal of parts of the intestines can interfere with vitamin and mineral absorption by the body.
Warning
Prior to making any changes in a nutritional plan, patients with Crohn's disease should discuss nutritional problems and different options with the health care team. A registered dietitian with experience working with Crohn's disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases can provide nutritional guidelines and suggestions to implement an optimal diet for the condition.
