Diet & Nutrition for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis often means your body may not absorb nutrients as well as it once did. Medications, inflammation, and changes in appetite can all affect how you eat and how your body uses food.
While diet does not cause IBD, what you eat can influence:
- Your energy levels
- Your symptom control
- Your ability to heal
- Your overall strength and independence
This guide can help you stay nourished and feel your best.
Why Nutrition Matters in IBD
IBD can sometimes make it harder for your body to:
- Digest food normally
- Absorb vitamins and minerals
- Maintain weight
- Stay hydrated
Because of this, older adults with IBD may be at higher risk for:
- Muscle loss
- Bone thinning
- Fatigue
- Nutrient deficiencies
Eating well helps support healing and prevent complications.
General Nutrition Goals
Aim to:
✔ Eat regularly (small meals often work best)
✔ Stay hydrated
✔ Maintain strength and weight
✔ Avoid unnecessary food restrictions
✔ Adjust diet based on symptoms
A balanced diet is still important — even if you need to modify certain foods during flares.
Eating During Remission (When Symptoms Are Calm)
When your IBD is stable:
Focus on a well-rounded diet that includes:
Protein
Helps maintain muscle and immune function
Examples:
• Eggs
• Fish
• Poultry
• Lean meats
• Tofu or soft beans (if tolerated)
• Yogurt
Fruits & Vegetables
Provide vitamins and fiber
Tips:
• Choose soft or cooked options if digestion is sensitive
• Peel skins if needed
• Try bananas, applesauce, cooked carrots, squash
Whole Grains (if tolerated)
Provide energy and fiber
Examples:
• Oatmeal
• Brown rice
• Whole grain toast
Healthy Fats
Support calorie intake and heart health
Examples:
• Olive oil
• Avocado
• Nut butters
Calcium & Bone Support
Important for aging adults and steroid users
Examples:
• Dairy or lactose-free dairy
• Fortified plant milks
• Soft cheeses
• Calcium-rich foods
Eating During a Flare
When symptoms increase, digestion becomes more sensitive.
You may feel better with:
✔ Lower fiber foods
✔ Softer textures
✔ Smaller meals
✔ Mild flavors
Often Easier to Tolerate
- White rice
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- Tender chicken or fish
- Cooked vegetables without skins
- Bananas
- Applesauce
- Soups and broths
Foods That May Worsen Symptoms
Some people find symptoms worsen with:
- Fried foods
- High-fat meals
- Raw vegetables
- Tough meats
- Nuts and seeds
- Spicy foods
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
Triggers vary from person to person.
Hydration is Essential
Diarrhea and reduced appetite can increase dehydration risk — especially in older adults.
Try:
- Water
- Broth
- Electrolyte drinks
- Decaffeinated beverages
Drink throughout the day, not just at meals.
Fiber: Finding the Right Balance
Fiber can help or irritate depending on disease activity.
During flares → lower fiber may help
During remission → gentle fiber may support digestion
Soluble fiber (often easier to tolerate):
- Oats
- Bananas
- Applesauce
- Soft vegetables
Vitamin & Mineral Needs
IBD may increase risk for:
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Iron deficiency
- B12 deficiency
- Calcium loss
Your provider may recommend supplements.
Never start supplements without guidance from your healthcare provider.
Maintaining Strength as You Age
To support independence:
✔ Eat protein regularly
✔ Maintain weight
✔ Stay physically active
✔ Avoid skipping meals
✔ Seek help if appetite is low
Nutrition supports:
- Mobility
- Immune health
- Healing
- Energy
Helpful Daily Habits
- Eat small meals every 3–4 hours
- Keep a simple food & symptom log
- Cook foods until soft
- Sit upright after meals
- Avoid skipping fluids
When to Talk to Your Provider
Call your healthcare team if you notice:
- Ongoing weight loss
- Trouble eating
- Persistent diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.
You may benefit from seeing a dietitian who specializes in IBD.
Medical Disclaimer
This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nutritional needs for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease vary based on disease activity, medications, and overall health status. Older adults may have additional considerations related to aging and other medical conditions. Always consult your physician, registered dietitian, or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or treatment plan. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
Sources:
This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.