While there is no one specific diet catered to alleviating the debilitating symptoms of Crohn’s disease, there are a number of foods that can help.
1. Oats
This gut-friendly whole grain contains two very important prebiotics: B-Glucan and polyphenols. These prebiotics are beneficial for those suffering from Crohn’s disease. Oats also contain anti-inflammatory antioxidants – 1 cup of cooked oats contains 4 grams of gut-friendly fibers, as well as a number of minerals and vitamins such a magnesium and thiamine.
2. Blueberries
These are full of antioxidants known as phytonutrients, which include the flavonoids anthocyanin and quercetin. A study published in the journal Nutrients found that flavonoids might have anti-inflammatory effects in the intestine, making them excellent snacks for those suffering from Crohn’s.
3. Oily Fish
Healthy fats known as omega-3s are found in abundance in oily fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel. These omega-3s aren’t only great for your heart and digestive system, but they also have an anti-inflammatory effect that can be extremely beneficial to those suffering from Crohn’s.
4. Eggs
Eggs are one of the best superfoods available to everyone – especially those who are battling Crohn’s flare-ups. They’re an excellent source of iron, folate, zinc, vitamin D, choline, selenium, & lutein.
5. Fresh Vegetable Juice
The insoluble fiber found in vegetables is not usually well-tolerated by people suffering from Crohn’s, but there’s no need to give up vegetables entirely. A great alternative to eating vegetables is to make a fresh juice drink out of them. Juicing eradicates the insoluble fiber while retaining the antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Just be sure to use a juicer and not a blender.
6. Apples
While the fiber-rich skin of apples can be harsh on the digestive system, the inside of apples is extremely beneficial to those with Crohn’s. Apples contain a wide range of minerals, vitamins, & antioxidants.