Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect the digestive tract anywhere from the throat to the bowel. Characterized by patches of red, swollen tissue within the digestive and intestinal tracts, Crohn's disease causes abdominal pain, bloody stool and chronic diarrhea. The condition reduces absorption of nutrients from food, particularly vitamins D, K, B12, folic acid and zinc; therefore, supplementation is recommended, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamin D
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, vitamin D is a nutrient and a hormone. The body naturally produces vitamin D from cholesterol when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Living in a low sunlight climate reduces vitamin D production in the body; therefore, supplementation or eating foods fortified with vitamin D is necessary. Functionally, vitamin D maintains proper levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood and promotes the mineralization of bones and teeth. Crohn's patients are prone to vitamin D deficiency and can develop osteoporosis as a consequence.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K plays a key role in coagulation; therefore, clotting of the blood in response to injury. Individuals with vitamin K deficiency tend to bleed excessively because the blood lacks the appropriate proteins to form a clot, according to Colorado State University.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 helps to produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It maintains proper function of nerve cells and supports the DNA, or genetic material of the cell. Vitamin B12 also plays a role in energy production. A vitamin B12 deficiency causes pernicious anemia, a condition, which affects the shape of red blood cells and reduces their capacity to carry oxygen throughout the body. Ideal sources of vitamin B12 include fish, shellfish, eggs and dairy products. Severe deficiency may require B12 injections, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or vitamin B9, helps to convert food into energy. It also maintains healthy eyes, hair, skin, nervous system and liver. Folic acid is important for healthy brain function, emotional well-being and red blood cell formation. A deficiency leads to gingivitis, brain fog, shortness of breath and tongue inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Zinc
Zinc plays a role in protein production, tissue healing, blood production, immune system mediation, insulin regulation, growth and development. Its diverse actions within the body make zinc a supplementation priority in patients with Crohn's disease, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Crohn's Disease
- Harvard School of Public Health: Vitamin D and Health
- Colorado State University: Vitamin K
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Vitamin B12
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B9/Folic Acid
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Zinc
