Diet for Controlling Crohn's Disease

If you've recently been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, you may be wondering if there is something other than medication to help manage the disease. Many find that dietary changes are helpful in decreasing the severity and frequency of spells, which are also known as "flares."

What to Eat

• Crohn's sufferers should follow a high-calorie, protein-rich diet. Eat plenty of chicken, pork, turkey and tofu. Several small, well-balanced meals a day should include foods rich in antioxidants, such as cherries and blueberries, along with a variety of vegetables. Many Crohn's sufferers find raw vegetables aggravate their condition; steam, stew or cook your vegetables. If fiber does not exacerbate your condition, be sure to include plenty of whole grains in your diet. Foods rich in B-vitamins, magnesium and calcium have been known to help with Crohn's. Dark leafy greens and sea vegetables can be beneficial, too.

What to Avoid

• To ascertain which foods trigger your symptoms keep a detailed food diary for several weeks. Spicy foods, fats and oils, and dairy products are known aggravators of Crohn's symptoms. Avoid fatty red meat and gas-producing foods such as broccoli, lentils, and cabbage. Also stay away from refined foods and simple carbohydrates, such as pasta and white bread. Even though you might not function well in the morning without your cup of Joe, it's best to avoid coffee due to the high acid content. You'll know pretty quickly if coffee aggravates your condition. Don't give up hope if you find a food you love triggers your symptoms; try another way to cook it and consult a nutritionist for creative ideas so you don't get bored with your diet.

Elemental Diet

• If your Crohn's is severe, your doctor may advise you to add elemental formula to your diet, or switch to an elemental formula altogether until your symptoms ease. Elemental formulas are liquid diets containing basic essential nutrients that do not need to be broken down in the digestive tract. Some people have difficulty sticking to an elemental diet, but other foods can usually be reintroduced after a short time.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Since Crohn's causes malabsorption, chronic diarrhea and decreased appetite, many sufferers are sorely lacking in essential vitamins and minerals. Specifically, people with Crohn's disease have been found to be deficient in vitamins B12, K, and D; zinc; folic acid; and calcium. Talk to your doctor about taking supplements. Also be sure to include foods rich in these minerals and vitamins as often as tolerated. According to the website LivingwithCrohn's.com, restoring and maintaining proper nutrition is a vital part of the medical management of the disease.