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Can I Drink Alcohol With Crohn's Disease?

Crohn's disease is an inflammation in the digestive tract, usually the small intestine. It can cause bleeding, diarrhea and trouble with digestion.

  1. Expert Insight

    • According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, as of 2009 there's no official recommendation that alcohol should be avoided.

    Effects

    • Some people with Crohn's experience discomfort after drinking alcohol, in those cases it should be avoided.

    Significance

    • Alcohol is fermented and creates gas in the intestines; this can add pressure to an already inflamed small intestine.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The symptoms of Crohn's disease may come and go over time, but if you have a sensitivity to alcohol you may want to avoid it even when you have no symptoms.

    Considerations

    • Some people with Crohn's disease have no problem drinking alcohol; monitor your body's response to decide if alcohol will be a problem for you.

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