When dealing with Crohn’s disease, selecting the right foods to eat and avoid is a critical concern. Although Crohn’s is an incurable condition, several foods have been shown to relieve its symptoms. Below are a few options that help manage Crohn’s disease.

Low-fiber fruits
Incorporating low-fiber fruits like bananas, cantaloupe, and honeydew melon into one’s meal plan may help alleviate some symptoms. These fruits are easier on the digestive system and can help reduce inflammation, which is a common issue for those with Crohn’s. Additionally, low-fiber fruits can improve nutrient absorption, reduce gas and bloating, and even lower the frequency of flares.

In some cases, Crohn’s disease can lead to the development of strictures or narrowed areas in the intestine. Low-fiber foods are less likely to cause obstructions, reducing the risk of complications.

Refined grains
Refined grains contain fewer insoluble fibers and are easier to digest, allowing them to move through the digestive system more quickly. Some of the best food options for individuals with Crohn’s disease include refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, pasta, and corn grits. These foods can be easier on the digestive system and may help alleviate symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease.

High-fiber cooked vegetables
When managing Crohn’s disease, incorporating high fiber into one’s meal plan can be helpful, but it’s important to note that insoluble fibers may worsen symptoms. Regularly consuming 23 grams of fiber can decrease the risk of a Crohn’s flare-up by up to 40%. Vegetables are among the best options to include in one’s meal plan. Specifically, cooked and cooled starchy foods like potatoes, sweet potatoes, squashes, and leafy greens can be beneficial. Focus on making these foods fork-tender for easier digestion and symptom relief.

Lean proteins
For those suffering from IBD, it’s important to be mindful of protein sources that may worsen symptoms. However, lean protein options are easy to digest and won’t add excess calories. White meat, chicken, eggs, oily fish, tofu, and soy products are all great examples of protein sources with low-fat content that can still help fulfill daily protein intake. By incorporating these options into meals, patients can maintain a balanced nutritional regime while avoiding potential triggers for IBD symptoms.

Yogurt and other dairy products
Although dairy products have triggering features, some products, like yogurt, contain probiotics that are helpful in digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. According to research, 80–86% of people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have insufficient calcium intake, which can be remedied by consuming milk and cheese. However, ‘lactose,’ – the sugar found in dairy products, can act as a triggering element to worsen the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Conclusion
Dealing with inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease, can be quite challenging, as it causes inflammation of the digestive tract tissues, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms. However, one can manage the condition and improve overall health by following a proper nutritional regime. The choice of foods also plays a crucial role in how quickly one recovers from a flare-up or remains in remission. By incorporating the best foods into their nutritional regime, individuals can experience significant improvements in their symptoms, such as reduced inflammation, better digestion, and improved nutrient absorption.