Crohn's disease is a member of the inflammatory bowel disease group. The condition is characterized by inflammation in the digestive tract that can be more widespread and deeper in the tissues than ulcerative colitis, another inflammatory bowel disease. Crohn's disease can cause a number of adverse symptoms, including malnutrition, because the digestive tract may be unable to properly absorb nutrients. If you have Crohn's disease, eating a healthy diet can boost your immune system and potentially reduce symptoms. Consult your physician before making dietary changes, however.
Misconception
One common misconception about Crohn's disease is that you cannot eat fiber, a food type that binds with your stool to move digested material through your intestines. While you may have difficulty tolerating fiber during a Crohn's flare-up -- a period where inflammation is at its highest -- you should not eliminate this food type from your diet completely. Aim to take in between 20 and 30 g of fiber per day to help maintain bowel regularity. You may find you are able to better tolerate fiber-containing foods like fruits and vegetables when they are cooked or steamed.
Foods with Vitamin B-12
When you have Crohn's disease, your body may not be able to absorb vitamin B-12 as well because your body absorbs the vitamin in your ileum, which Crohn's may affect. Your physician may recommend increasing your intake of vitamin B-12 foods to ensure enough is absorbed. Foods that include vitamin B-12 include fortified breakfast cereals, salmon, yogurt, tuna, milk, Swiss cheese and eggs. If your body cannot properly absorb this vitamin via your foods, your physician may recommend injections to bypass your digestive system.
Lean Protein Sources
A high-protein diet may help to relieve some of the symptoms of IBS. Choose lean sources of protein and remove all visible fat from meats -- high-fat foods can aggravate your symptoms. Examples of lean protein sources include poultry, fish, red meat and low-fat dairy products. However, dairy products may worsen symptoms in some Crohn's patients. Legumes, beans and soy products can be plant-based sources of protein in your diet.
High-Antioxidant Foods
Crohn's disease flare-ups can be painful and cause symptoms like pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, nausea and diarrhea. To minimize painful symptoms, you can increase your antioxidant intake. Antioxidants are inflammation fighters in your body that may help to minimize Crohn's symptoms. Accomplish this by incorporating colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet. This includes blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, squash and bell peppers.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Crohn's Disease; Steven Ehrlich, NMD; December 2008
- HealthCastle.com; Inflammatory Bowel Disease IBD Diet; Gloria Tsang, RD; July 2005
- Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America; Diet and Nutrition; June 2011
- UVA Nutrition Services; Nutrition and Crohn's Disease; October 2010
