Crohn's disease, also known as regional enteritis, is a form of chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect many parts of the digestive tract, according to the University of California at San Francisco. Patients with Crohn's disease experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent watery diarrhea, weight loss, fever and fatigue. Sufferers are advised to eat certain foods in order to control the symptoms.
Proteins and Vitamins
Patients with Crohn's disease should increase intake of protein- and vitamin-rich foods to avoid malnutrition and weight loss. Chronic diarrhea causes loss of nutrients. Patients should ensure that they consume low-fat protein foods, because fatty protein foods may worsen diarrhea. Patients with lactose intolerance should also avoid dairy products to avoid increased diarrhea, bloating and gas. Multivitamin supplements provide extra vitamins and minerals, which are needed because patients with Crohn's disease are not able to completely absorb nutrients from foods.
High-Fiber Foods
Patients with Crohn's disease should avoid high-fiber foods, because they can increase diarrhea. High-fiber foods include whole grain breads, whole grain cereals, bran, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds and popcorn. Doctors recommend that patients with active inflammation in the colon consume a low-residue or low-fiber diet to allow the colon to heal.
Fried and Greasy Foods
Patients with Crohn's disease should consume low-fat foods because they are not able to digest and absorb fats well, according to MayoClinic.com. Patients who consume lots of fried and greasy foods may notice increased diarrhea. Examples of fatty foods to avoid include steak, bacon, hot dogs, fries, margarine, butter, creamy sauces and whole milk.
Fluids
Alcohol and beverages containing caffeine may aggravate symptoms of Crohn's disease and should be avoided, according to MayoClinic's website. Caffeine stimulates the colon, leading to increased diarrhea. Patients should increase water intake in order to prevent the dehydration caused by chronic diarrhea.
