Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of diarrhea together with poor absorption of dietary carbohydrates, fat, protein and water rob the body of nutrients, fluids, vitamins and minerals. Because appetite is reduced with Crohn's disease even though the energy needs of the body are increased, maintaining proper nutrition is vital. According to the Mayo Clinic, certain foods can aggravate symptoms of this disease.
Low-Fat Foods
Although Crohn's disease is a condition that affects the digestive system, diet cannot cure Crohn's disease. However, a well-balanced and heart-healthy diet is essential to coping with the disease. Fresh fruits and vegetables, beans and whole-grain breads, pastas and rice are good choices if they don't hurt your digestive system. Certain fruits and vegetables may have to be eaten cooked. If the small intestine is affected by Crohn's disease, it's more difficult for the body to absorb and digest fats. Because trans fats and saturated fats can worsen diarrhea, a low-fat diet is important. Fried foods, butter, avocados, margarine, cream sauces, red meat and nuts can worsen symptoms. Fish, lean meats and poultry are better food choices, as well as low-fat dairy products. Eating smaller portions of these foods more frequently throughout the day may help you feel better. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, is also important.
Foods High in Fiber, Cooked
Though eating high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables is healthy, fiber can make diarrhea, gas and pain worse. If fruits or vegetables bother you, eat them cooked rather than raw. They can be stewed, baked or steamed. Especially cabbage, broccoli, carrots and apples may have to be eaten cooked.
Eating bulky grains may increase diarrhea and cause cramping. The Mayo Clinic advises experimenting with fiber and consulting your doctor about consuming high-fiber foods such as nuts, corn, popcorn and seeds.
Diet Rich in Calcium and Vitamin D
Arthur Schoenstadt, M.D., reports that those suffering from Crohn's disease have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis, or bone thinning. A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help optimize bone health. Consult your doctor to determine whether you need at least 1,000mg calcium each day. Although calcium intake is important, milk products may increase diarrhea and cramping, especially if you're lactose intolerant and your body can't digest the milk sugar in dairy foods. Your doctor may advise using an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose.
Avoid Problem Foods
If Crohn's disease is active, spicy or high-fiber foods may have to be avoided in favor of soft, bland foods. Citrus fruits, beans, raw fruit juices, alcohol and caffeinated coffee and teas, chocolate and carbonated drinks may have to be avoided. Maintain a food diary and note which foods cause you problems.
