Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for chronic inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. The two primary types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, but symptoms can vary greatly between individuals.

One common risk factor for developing IBD is diet. Certain foods can trigger or exacerbate inflammation, making it important to understand what to avoid. In this article, we will discuss 30 common foods that increase your risk of IBD by 67%.

1. Red and Processed Meat

Studies have linked consumption of red and processed meats with an increased risk of developing IBD. These meats contain high levels of saturated fat and heme iron, which can damage the intestinal epithelial barrier and increase inflammation.

2. Sugar

Consumption of sugar is also linked to an increased risk of IBD. Sugar can increase inflammation and promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.

3. Refined Grains

Refined grains like white flour have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients, leaving behind a starchy product that can spike blood sugar and promote inflammation.

4. Fried Foods

Fried foods like potato chips, French fries, and fried chicken are high in harmful fats and can increase inflammation in the gut.

5. Dairy

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt can be hard to digest for some people and can cause inflammation in the gut.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol can irritate the gut lining and promote inflammation, making it important to limit consumption for those with IBD.

7. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and contribute to inflammation.

8. Processed Foods

Processed foods like frozen dinners and packaged snacks often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats that can increase inflammation in the gut.

9. Gluten

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that can trigger inflammation in some people with IBD.

10. Soy

Soy products like tofu and soy milk contain compounds that can increase inflammation in the gut.

11. Nightshade Vegetables

Some people with IBD may be sensitive to nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, which contain compounds that can trigger inflammation.

12. Fatty Foods

High-fat foods like fatty cuts of meat, fried foods, and full-fat dairy can be hard to digest and can increase inflammation in the gut.

13. Caffeine

Caffeine can stimulate contractions in the gut and promote inflammation in some people with IBD.

14. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods like hot peppers and curry can irritate the gut lining and promote inflammation in some people with IBD.

15. Artificial Colors and Flavors

Artificial colors and flavors can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and contribute to inflammation in some people with IBD.

16. High-Fiber Foods

While fiber is important for overall gut health, high-fiber foods can be difficult to digest for those with IBD and can increase inflammation.

17. Raw Vegetables

Raw vegetables can be difficult to digest and can increase inflammation in those with IBD. Cooking vegetables can make them easier to digest.

18. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be hard to digest and can increase inflammation in some people with IBD. Nut butters and seed butters may be easier to digest.

19. Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages can cause gas and bloating, which can irritate the gut lining and increase inflammation in some people with IBD.

20. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits contain compounds that can irritate the gut lining and increase inflammation in some people with IBD.

21. High-Sugar Fruits

Some high-sugar fruits like bananas and grapes can be difficult to digest for some people with IBD and can increase inflammation.

22. Fried Snacks

Fried snacks like potato chips and pretzels are often high in unhealthy fats and can increase inflammation in the gut.

23. High-Sugar Cereals

Many breakfast cereals are high in sugar and can spike blood sugar levels, contributing to inflammation in the gut.

24. High-Sugar Beverages

High-sugar beverages like soda, fruit juice, and sweetened tea can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels and contribute to inflammation in the gut.

25. Processed Meats

Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats are often high in salt, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that can increase inflammation in the gut.