If you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, you probably already know that eating certain foods can trigger some serious digestive problems. Thankfully, having a special diet plan and avoiding specific foods can prevent this from happening all while allowing the intestines to heal!
Crohn’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It is not isolated to one area, and can affect any part of the GI tract from the mouth down to the colon. However, this condition typically affects the end of the small bowel.
What Is the Crohn’s Disease Diet Plan?
The Crohn’s disease diet plan essentially helps individuals with this chronic illness to avoid foods that trigger their GI symptoms. By staying away from these trigger foods, most people will experience fewer reactionary symptoms such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea and promote intestinal healing.
Foods and drinks to Avoid
The foods and drinks that trigger a person’s Crohn’s disease symptoms can vary. The following is a list of foods and drinks that commonly trigger painful symptoms in most people with Crohn’s disease:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Dairy products
- Carbonated beverages
- Fried foods and fatty foods
- High-fiber foods
- Raw fruits & vegetables
- Spicy foods
- Red meat & pork
Food Substitutes and What You Can Eat
Fortunately, there are many substitutes available that are much easier on the digestive tract, which can reduce Crohn’s Disease symptoms. It is important to note that this diet can affect each individual differently and it is recommended to use the trial-and-error method to discover which foods and drinks are best for you.
Almond milk: This is a good low-calorie alternative to those that are sensitive to dairy products.- Eggs
- Oatmeal: A lot of people find oatmeal to be okay to eat during flare-ups. Oatmeal has insoluble fiber, which absorbs water and passes it more slowly through your digestive system.
- Vegetable soups
- Salmon: Substitute red meat for a fish like salmon since lean protein is your best option to promote healing within the digestive tract.
Starting a Crohn’s Disease Diet Plan
Before starting a diet plan to treat your Crohn’s disease, it is important to consult your gastroenterologist or dietician to ensure that the plan will offer the best advantages possible for you and your lifestyle. Your doctor may recommend vitamins and/or minerals to supplement your diet plan. It is important not to restrict your diet too much, as this could quickly lead to malnutrition.
See a Specialist Today
Book an appointment today with one of our local gastroenterologists! Call our office in Philadelphia, PA at (215) 742-9900 to schedule a consultation to discuss what treatment plan would be best as it pertains to your Crohn’s disease symptoms. Our gastroenterologists are highly trained and have extensive experience diagnosing and treating Chron’s disease. They will take the time to fully discuss your treatment options.
