Tips for Keeping Crohn's Disease in Check

Practice good nutrition. A healthy diet is the cornerstone of effectively managing Crohn's disease. Work with your health care team to maintain a well-balanced diet that works for you, such as a diet that is low in saturated fats and high in foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies suggest that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids and with sufficient vitamin D may reduce the activity of Crohn's disease. If you have a narrowing in your small intestine, a low-residue diet may reduce symptoms. A low-residue diet limits high-fiber foods such as nuts, seeds and fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as foods that increase bowel activity, such as dairy products and prune juice.

Everyone with Crohn's responds differently to foods, and there is no particular diet that has been proven effective for treatment. A dietitian can help you determine what's best for you. Before you see a dietitian, start a food diary and note any foods that seem to be triggers for your symptoms. Be sure to follow a healthy, nutritious diet and avoid foods that seem to trigger symptoms or cause them to worsen.