Key takeaways
- There is no single diet that works for everyone with IBD.
- Learning your own patterns, with your care team, works better than cutting out whole food groups on your own.
- A registered dietitian can help you eat well and get the nutrients you need.
“What should I eat?” is one of the most common questions people ask after an IBD diagnosis. It makes sense. When your gut is involved, food can feel confusing or even scary. The good news is that you do not have to figure it out alone.
Why food matters with IBD
Eating well helps you keep up your energy, strength and weight. IBD can make that harder. Some people eat less when they do not feel well, and inflammation can affect how your body absorbs nutrients.
Food does not cause IBD. But some foods may bother you more than others, especially during a flare. What bothers one person may be fine for someone else, so the goal is to learn what works for you. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation explains more about eating with IBD.
Small first steps
- Keep a simple food and symptom log for two weeks. Write down what you eat and how you feel. Patterns are easier to spot on paper, and the log is helpful to bring to appointments.
- Try smaller meals more often if large meals make you uncomfortable.
- Drink enough fluids, especially if you have diarrhea. Water is a good choice.
- Change one thing at a time so you can tell what makes a difference.
Try this week
- Start a food and symptom log in a notebook or on your phone.
- Notice one food that sits well with you, and one that does not.
- Bring your log to your next GI visit.
During a flare and in remission
What you can eat comfortably may change. During a flare, many people find that softer, simpler foods are easier to handle. In remission, you may be able to eat a wider range of foods. Your care team can help you plan for both, so you know what to try when symptoms change.
You may hear about special diets for IBD. Some can help some people, but they are not right for everyone, and cutting out foods without guidance can make it harder to get the nutrients you need. Talk with your care team before starting one.
When to talk to your care team
Talk to your GI doctor’s office if you lose weight without trying, find it hard to eat enough, or want to start a new diet or supplement. Ask whether seeing a registered dietitian who works with IBD is right for you.
If you have a SonarMD care coordinator, you can also reach out between visits. They can help you get questions to your GI team.