Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition marked by chronic inflammation and irritation of the digestive system. While the exact causes of this condition remain unclear, diet and lifestyle can play a critical role in managing symptoms and supporting overall gut health.
How Does Diet Impact Crohn’s Disease?
An overabundance of calories typical of the Western dietary pattern—characterized by high intakes of added sugars, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods—can worsen gut inflammation. While specific foods don’t directly cause Crohn’s disease, some can trigger symptom flare-ups in individuals.
Common foods that may trigger symptom flare-ups include:
- High-fiber foods (raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds)
- High-fat foods (especially fried or greasy foods)
- Dairy products (for those with lactose intolerance)
- Carbonated beverages (soda, sparkling water, fizzy drinks)
The Top 5 Foods to Eat With Crohn’s Disease
While no single diet has been proven to cure or treat Crohn’s disease, a diet that prioritizes gut-friendly nutrients can be beneficial. Certain fruits, vegetables, and beans—help nourish the gut microbiome, which plays a key role in immune function and inflammation control.
- Pulses: lentils, peas, beans, chickpeas
- Fruit: banana, cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew melon
- Potatoes: peel the potato and eat it without the skin
- Vegetables: steamed asparagus tips, cooked carrots, and pureed squash
- Fatty fish: tuna, sardines, salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids which combat inflammation
Crohn’s Disease Friendly Recipes
Eggs, Salmon, and Avocado from EverydayHealth.com
This quick and easy breakfast recipe is a great source of protein and heart-healthy fats. Eggs and salmon are high in protein. Salmon and avocado are high in healthy fats.
Ingredients
1 or 2 eggs
2 oz salmon canned in water, drained
1/3 avocado, cubed
Instructions
Scramble eggs and then top with salmon and avocado.
Vegetable Soup adapted from Greatist.com
Ingredients
4 cups of low-sodium broth, such as vegetable or chicken
2–3 cups of diced carrots and potatoes, which may be frozen
Instructions
Add the broth, and vegetables to a saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender and cooked through–around 10–15 minutes.
Tip: Add red lentils, or cooked, shredded chicken for a little variety and extra protein.
Adopting a balanced approach towards foods can help reduce inflammation, support gut health, and improve overall well-being for those living with Crohn’s disease.
If you have Crohn’s disease, book a complimentary nutrition phone consultation with me to learn how to eat better to improve your health.
Nutritionally Yours,
Jerlyn
