Don't: Whole Grains Whole-grain breads or high-fiber cereals like bran flakes have many health benefits. But they can be hard to digest. Popcorn is another high-fiber grain snack you should try to avoid. These grains are high in fiber, so they trigger Crohn's symptoms like diarrhea, gas, and stomach pain.
Grains: When you're having symptoms, choose bread, pasta, and other carbohydrates made from refined white flour instead of whole grains. 4 White rice is another low-fiber option. Avoid brown rice, wild rice, or rice pilaf.
Sourdough bread is typically made of flour, water, and salt. It often involves a long fermentation process, which can make it much easier to digest. This may make it especially beneficial for people living with IBD.
Studies suggest certain insoluble fibers can worsen IBD symptoms. As refined grains have less insoluble fiber than whole grains, they tend to pass more quickly and easily through the digestive tract and are less likely to cause inflammation. Examples of refined grains include: white bread.
The best sourdough and rye bread varieties to reduce gut inflammation are those made from whole grains. However, if you are intolerant to gluten, you'll want to opt for gluten-free bread options to ease any gut inflammation, since neither sourdough bread nor rye bread are gluten-free.
Certain high-fat foods can cause symptoms in some people with Crohn's disease, but you may be able to tolerate higher-fat protein sources like nut butters and whole eggs without issue.
Short answer: yes, if tolerated! Pizza is a food that can be categorized into the Western Diet, which research has linked to the increased prevalence of IBD.
Over-the-Counter Medication
A group of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — incuding ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and high-dose aspirin — are helpful in relieving body pain by blocking the production of inflammation.
Don't: Raw Veggies
Whether you're using them for dip or in a salad, these tough, fiber-rich plant foods can make you poop even more. They could make a Crohn's flare feel worse.
Cheese lovers with Crohn's disease have options. “Natural cheeses may contain some beneficial bacteria, so we don't want to demonize cheese or dairy. It can be really helpful for fighting diseases and a healthy part of the diet for someone with Crohn's disease,” Medlin says.
For many people with Crohn's, greasy foods will upset the digestive tract, so stay away from fatty cuts of meat like rib eye, pulled pork, beef brisket, fatty burgers, pork sausage, hot dogs, and bacon, advises the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Anything grilled, baked, or broiled is a great bet.
Potatoes. These starchy veggies can be a lifesaver during a Crohn's flare-up. Just be sure you avoid potato skins, as they are high in fiber and may cause digestive distress. Bake or roast white or sweet potatoes and scoop out the middle for a simple, delicious meal that won't leave you feeling under the weather.
Coffee Has Its Pros and Cons
In either case, the high amount of caffeine in coffee can aggravate certain unpleasant Crohn's symptoms. But some people with Crohn's tolerate coffee in small doses, such as a morning cup. “I think it's fine for people to have their morning coffee,” Dr. Longman says.
Although there's no firm evidence that any particular foods cause Crohn's disease, certain things seem to aggravate flare-ups. So a food diary can help you identify personal triggers. Beyond that, limit dairy products, eating smaller meals, stay hydrated, and try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonation.
A Crohn's flare can totally deplete you of energy. Don't underestimate the importance of rest, says Dr. Horst. Make sure you're getting seven to nine hours at night, and don't be afraid to nap during the day.
Yoga. This practice, which focuses on postures and breathing, is a great way to relax. That can be key for Crohn's, since stress can trigger flare-ups and make symptoms worse. Any form of exercise, though, can ease stress and help your intestines work more normally.
To help manage diarrhea, anti-diarrheal med- ications, such as Imodium® or Pepto-Bismol®, may be effective.