Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes inflammation of the intestinal walls that can lead to severe pain, diarrhea, and other digestive problems.

While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, following a specific diet can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Foods to Avoid

People with Crohn’s disease should avoid certain foods that can trigger symptoms, including:.

1. Dairy products

Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, can cause inflammation and worsen Crohn’s symptoms.

Additionally, many people with Crohn’s disease are lactose intolerant, which means they cannot digest lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. Some people may be able to tolerate small amounts of dairy, such as hard cheese or lactose-free milk. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about whether dairy products are safe for you to consume.

2. High-fiber foods

High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can be difficult to digest for people with Crohn’s disease. These foods can cause cramping, bloating, and diarrhea.

However, some people with Crohn’s disease may be able to tolerate low-fiber fruits and vegetables, such as cooked carrots or bananas. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about which high-fiber foods are safe for you to consume.

3. Greasy or fried foods

Greasy or fried foods, such as fast food, french fries, and fried chicken, can worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms. These foods are high in fat, which can trigger inflammation and make digestion more difficult.

Additionally, some people with Crohn’s disease may already have difficulty absorbing fat, which can exacerbate symptoms.

4. Spicy foods

Spicy foods, such as hot sauce, chili peppers, and curry, can irritate the digestive tract and worsen Crohn’s symptoms. Additionally, certain spices can have a laxative effect, which can cause diarrhea and dehydration.

5. Alcohol and caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine can stimulate the digestive tract and worsen Crohn’s symptoms. These beverages can also dehydrate the body, which can exacerbate diarrhea.

Additionally, alcoholic beverages can cause inflammation in the digestive tract and worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms.

6. Nuts, seeds, and popcorn

Nuts, seeds, and popcorn can be difficult to digest for people with Crohn’s disease. These foods can cause blockages in the digestive tract and worsen symptoms.

However, some people with Crohn’s disease may be able to tolerate nut butters or low-fiber seeds, such as chia seeds.

7. Carbonated beverages

Carbonated beverages, such as soda and sparkling water, can cause gas and bloating in people with Crohn’s disease. Additionally, these beverages can dehydrate the body and worsen symptoms.

8. Red meat

Red meat, such as beef and pork, can be difficult to digest for people with Crohn’s disease. Additionally, these meats are high in saturated fat, which can worsen inflammation and make digestion more difficult.

However, some people with Crohn’s disease may be able to tolerate small amounts of lean meats, such as chicken or fish.

9. Processed foods

Processed foods, such as packaged snacks, cookies, and candy, can worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms. These foods are often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives that can trigger inflammation and worsen symptoms.

Additionally, many processed foods are low in nutrients, which can exacerbate nutritional deficiencies that are common in people with Crohn’s disease.

10. Certain fruits and vegetables

Certain fruits and vegetables can worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms. These include raw fruits and vegetables, such as apples and broccoli, that are difficult to digest.

People with Crohn’s disease should also avoid fruits and vegetables with skins, such as grapes and tomatoes, as well as fruits and vegetables with seeds, such as strawberries.

Summary

While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, following a specific diet can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

People with Crohn’s disease should avoid certain foods that can trigger symptoms, including dairy products, high-fiber foods, greasy or fried foods, spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine, nuts, seeds, and popcorn, carbonated beverages, red meat, processed foods, and certain fruits and vegetables. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about which foods are safe for you to consume and how to create a balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs.