Nutritional Issues And Proper Diet.

Compromised nutrition, even malnutrition, is a constant threat to an individual with Crohn's disease. This is because the disease creates a vicious cycle:

•Fever and diarrhea cause a loss of appetite.

•Fever, by raising the body's metabolic rate, adds to the need for caloric energy.

•Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and temporary lactose intolerance (the inability to digest milk sugars).

•Lactose intolerance causes milk sugars to ferment in the colon, leading to cramps and more diarrhea.

•Lactose intolerance can also indirectly lead to calcium deficiency, which in turn can lead to the loss of bone density called osteoporosis. This side effect can be especially prevalent among those being treated with corticosteroids such as prednisone.


Nutritional treatment for Crohn's disease has two main goals.

•The first is to increase the intake of calories, especially in the form of proteins, along with vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, to prevent nutritional deficiency.

•The second is to create an eating pattern that minimizes stress on the diseased digestive tract. This often means eating smaller, more frequent meals. Many nutrition counselors suggest that people with Crohn's disease consume six half-sized meals each day, spacing them equally and consuming the last at least three hours before bedtime.


Most doctors tell people with Crohn's disease that their diet should be "normal, as tolerated." There is no conclusive evidence that particular foods cause flare-ups. During a flare-up, however, doctors often suggest that individuals reduce their intake of dietary fiber, such as whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables.