A formal Crohn's diet doesn't exist per se. Foods that aggravate symptoms in one person may have no effect on another. Learning which foods can or cannot be incorporated into a person's diet takes time and is a matter of trial and error. A dietician can help develop a Crohn's diet that is customized to help keep inflammation to a minimum. Keeping a food diary will help determine, over time, which foods provoke and aggravate symptoms in the susceptible individual.

 

People living with Crohn's often have difficulty absorbing nutrients from their digestive tract. The body's ability to digest and absorb food is compromised by diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. Doctors may suggest multivitamins or dietary supplements to help complement a limited diet. While such supplements help make up for nutritional deficiencies, they cannot actually replace food.

 

In cases where complications prevent the ingestion of solid food, liquid nutrient formulas may form a large part of the Crohn's diet. Tube feeding is also used in certain cases, when symptoms and complications make normal food consumption impossible.

Hyperalimentation, the intravenous injection of sugars, protein and other nutrients through a catheter placed in the vena cava (a vein that leads to the heart), may be used for long-term support. Like the symptoms of Crohn's, diets vary widely among individuals.

Different people find different foods aggravate their condition. While food tolerances vary widely, the following are common triggers or Crohn's symptoms:

Here are some common strategies for eating well in spite of Crohn's disease. Remember to listen to your own body. Learn to spot the signs of malnutrition or dehydration early.

Diarrhea and inflammation both lead to fluid loss. It doesn't take long for the human body to become dehydrated; so adequate fluid intake is essential, especially in a Crohn's diet. Drinking small amounts of fluid frequently helps many people stay hydrated.

A light-headed feeling, dizziness, and weakness are signs of dehydration. Dark, concentrated urine is also a sign that the body needs more fluids.

More than just fluid is lost when your body gets dehydrated. Electrolytes — substances necessary for the body to send electrical signals through body fluid — are also lost. Electrolytes help maintain the electrical balance and transfer of water among body cells. Commercial drinks are available to help replenish the body's levels of electrolytes. Chronic diarrhea can also result in electrolyte loss, so electrolyte drinks for many may be a natural component of their Crohn's diet.

Resources

American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. (nd). Crohn's disease.

Carson-Dewitt, R.S. (2002, December). Crohn's disease. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine.

National Library of Medicine. (nd). Crohn's disease. MedlinePlus Tutorial.