Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are chronic inflammatory diseases of the bowel and are often associated with malnutrition. Good nutrition plays a key role in helping to reduce symptoms and promote healing. Keeping yourself well-nourished is an important component in the management of IBD.

How important is nutrition for those with IBD?
Nutrition is very important because people with IBD are prone to becoming malnourished. This occurs for several reasons:

• Your body might not absorb all the dietary carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals that you eat, depending on what section and how much of your small and large intestine is affected.
• Your appetite may be reduced due to medications or when your IBD is "flaring up."

Is there a special diet for IBD?

• No, there is no special diet for persons with IBD. People tolerate various foods differently, so the general guideline is to eat a balanced diet and try to avoid foods that seem to make your symptoms worse.
• If the inflammation has caused a stricture (narrowing) in the intestine, a doctor might ask a patient to follow a low-fiber (low-residue) diet or a special liquid diet. In these special cases, a registered dietitian can assist you in developing a temporary diet until the inflammation subsides.

What should I do to maintain proper nutrition?

• Make sure you are not skipping meals. Eat regular meals and snacks.
• Eat a variety of foods from all food groups.
• Use the Food Guide Pyramid (see an individualized pyramid at www.mypyramid.gov). The Food Guide Pyramid provides an example of the number of servings you should eat from each food group every day. The number of servings that you need will vary depending upon your caloric needs.
• Choose foods high in calories and nutrients.
• Drink high-calorie liquid supplements in place of low-calorie drinks or in addition to your meals and snacks.
• Eat a variety of foods to get all of the nutrients you need.
• Drink eight, 8-ounce glasses of fluid daily. Fluids are important for hydration, especially during warmer weather or during periods of time when diarrhea is present.

Note: This guide provides basic information on the importance of nutrition in inflammatory bowel disease.  They are general guidelines that may be tailored to meet your needs.  Eating healthy means making changes in your current eating habits.  A registered dietitian can provide more personalized nutrition education to help you develop a personal action plan.