Crohn's disease, also known as regional enteritis is a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease that may affect any part of the digestive tract, according to MayoClinic. Chronic inflammation normally occurs in the intestines and leads to symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, constipation, rectal bleeding and weight loss. Patients with Crohn's disease should consume certain diets to control symptoms and prevent malnutrition.
High Calorie and High Protein Diets
Patients with Crohn's disease should consume high calorie and high protein foods, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Crohn's disease of the small intestine interferes with absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and weakness. Patients also experience persistent watery diarrhea that leads to loss of more nutrients and electrolytes. High calorie and high protein foods provide energy and proteins needed to prevent muscle wasting. Examples of high calorie, high protein foods include whole milk, dairy products made with whole milk, cream-based soups and peanut butter sandwiches. Patients with lactose intolerance should avoid milk and dairy products. Milk can cause increased diarrhea, gas and abdominal cramping.
Low Residue Diets
During active inflammation patients with Crohn's disease should consume low residue diets. Residue includes fiber and any undigested food that remain in the colon to form stool. High residue foods such as raw fruits and vegetables cause contractions once they enter the large intestine leading to increased diarrhea. Low residue diets reduce the size and number of stool, thereby allowing the colon to rest and heal. Examples of low residue foods include white bread, white rice, clear broth, canned fruits without pulp and clear fruit juices.
Other Diets
Patients with Crohn's disease may not be able to absorb or digest fats normally and should avoid greasy foods such as butter, margarine, cream sauces and fatty meat because they increase gas and diarrhea, according to MayoClinic. Patients should drink plenty of fluids to compensate for fluids lost through persistent diarrhea. Drinks containing caffeine should be avoided because caffeine stimulates the intestines and may worsen diarrhea.
