Inflammatory bowel disease - Crohn's disease; Regional enteritis; Ileitis; Granulomatous ileocolitis; IBD- Crohn's disease

DIET AND NUTRITION

No specific diet has been shown to improve or worsen symptoms in Crohn's disease. Specific food problems may vary from person to person.

You should eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. It is important for you to get enough calories, protein, and essential nutrients from a variety of food groups.

Certain types of foods may worsen diarrhea and gas symptoms. The problem is more likely during periods when symptoms are present. Possible changes you can make to your diet include:

• Eat small amounts of food throughout the day.
• Drink lots of water (drink small amounts often throughout the day).
• Avoid high-fiber foods (bran, beans, nuts, seeds, and popcorn).
• Avoid fatty, greasy or fried foods and sauces (butter, margarine, and heavy cream).
• If your body does not digest dairy foods well, limit dairy products. Try low-lactose cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, and an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose.
• Avoid foods that you know cause you gas, such as beans, spicy food, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, raw fruit juices and fruits -- especially citrus fruits.

People who have a blockage of the intestines may need to avoid raw fruits and vegetables and other high-fiber foods.

Ask your doctor about extra vitamins and minerals you may need:

• Iron supplements (if you are anemic)
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements to help keep your bones strong
• Vitamin B12 to prevent anemia

STRESS

You may feel worried, embarrassed, or even sad and depressed about having a bowel accident. Other stressful events in your life, such as moving, a job loss, or the loss of a loved one can cause digestive problems.

Ask your doctor or nurse for tips on how to manage your stress.

Images

Crohn's disease, x-ray

Clubbing

Digestive system organs

Inflammatory bowel disease

Crohn's disease - affected areas

Anorectal fistulas

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Review Date: 12/13/2010
Reviewed By: George F Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)