Living with Crohn’s Disease can be quite challenging. Even though it’s a chronic disease you can manage the symptoms effectively by following a proper diet, managing stress and understanding your triggers. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing some crucial points about the diet for Crohn’s Disease. We’ll also explore some foods that you need to add to and avoid in your diet.
Go Low Fiber: Fiber is an essential nutrient but it can be harsh on the Crohn’s Disease digestive system. When you’re suffering from an outbreak of the disease, it’s better to limit the fiber consumption to mitigate the symptoms. That being said, you still need to get enough fiber into your system. Cook your vegetables and fruits, and peel the skin to make it easier to digest.
Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi can be incredibly helpful in balancing your intestinal microbiome. There is also research that suggests that probiotics aid in reducing inflammation, another symptom of Crohn’s Disease.
Hydration: Drinking enough water every day can make a significant difference in your symptoms. When you’re dehydrated, your stools can harden, which makes bowel movements a lot more painful and complicated. Make sure you have at least 8-10 cups of water in your daily diet to ensure your digestive system is working as it should. Dehydration can worsen Crohn’s disease symptoms so make sure to stay hydrated.
Avoid Trigger Foods: Different foods trigger Crohn’s disease in different people, which means the foods that work for somebody else might harm you. Foods like red meat, spicy food, and caffeine are known to be triggers for crohn’s Disease. Moreover, keep a food diary to record what you eat every day and document how you feel. This will allow you to identify foods that affect you and plan your meals accordingly.
Iron Intake: Crohn’s Disease can make it hard for your body to absorb iron. It’s not uncommon for people suffering from this disease to develop an iron deficiency. Iron-rich foods like spinach, lentils, and tofu can help you get the intake your body requires. Alternatively, consider taking an iron supplement as prescribed by your doctor.
Managing Crohn’s Disease is exhausting, but with the right foods and choices, you can achieve an improved quality of life. It would help if you worked closely with your doctor and dietitian to find the perfect nutrition intake that works best for the management of your symptoms and overall health. Incorporating the tips above can be an excellent starting point for better health, but speak to a licensed health professional to get a personalized diet plan that will work best for you.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with a Kitchener dietitian at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
