Crohn's and ulcerative colitis are the two most common inflammatory bowel diseases. Both Crohn's and colitis are chronic disorders that are characterized by abdominal pain and unpredictable bouts of diarrhea. Although diet is not the cause of these diseases, modifications to the patient's diet can help control the symptoms.
Crohn's or Colitis
Although both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are considered inflammatory bowel diseases, symptoms are different. Patients with Crohn's disease are more affected by foods they consume than are those with ulcerative colitis. According to "Nutrition and Diet Therapy," both patients with Crohn's and colitis have reported that bananas, carrots, potatoes, rice and roasted chicken did not worsen their symptoms and made them feel good.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis both put patients at risk for malabsorption and malnutrition. Patients are deficient in vitamins A, C, D, E, K and B12 due to malabsortpion. Iron, magnesium, calcium and phosphate are also affected. When vitamin B12 is not adequately absorbed, carbohydrates, proteins and fats cannot be adequately metabolized and the risk of malnutrition increases. During periods of excessive diarrhea, patients may need dietary supplements, particularly vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Dietary Recommendations
According the "RN," the best defense to minimize the risk of disease exacerbation is for patients to enjoy a well-balanced diet. Foods high in fiber, fat and lactose can increase discomfort and diarrhea. The most common problem foods include seeds, nuts, raw fruits and vegetables and leafy greens. Cooked fruits and vegetables without skin or seeds are generally well tolerated. An adequate intake of calories and nutrients is essential. Protein from meats, fish, poultry and eggs is recommended.
Lactose Intolerant
Many patients with inflammatory bowel disease are lactose intolerant, which causes bloating, abdominal cramping and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. Dairy products, however, are excellent sources of calcium, calories and protein and should not be avoided simply because a patient is lactose intolerant. Lactose-intolerant patients can prevent symptoms by taking a lactase enzyme supplement when eating foods that contain lactose.
Dietary Modifications
According to "Nutrition and Diet Therapy," dietary modifications are usually based on the patient's tolerance and avoidance of irritating foods. Foods that are suspected of increasing symptoms should be tried in small amounts and given a fair trial before eliminating them. Despite patients' belief that food affected their disease course, no reported dietary behavior has reduced the incidence of the illness.
References
- "RN"; Inflammatory Bowel Disease; J. Veronsei; May 2003
- "Nutrition and Diet Therapy"; F.A. Davis; 2011
- "Better Nutrition"; Nutritional Rx for Crohn's and Colitis; Figueras; May 2010
