Nutrition for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Living with IBD often means your digestive system may not always absorb nutrients the way it should. Because of this, what you eat can affect:

• Energy levels
• Digestive comfort
• Healing and inflammation
• Risk of weight loss or weakness

There is no single diet that works for everyone with IBD, but thoughtful food choices can help reduce symptoms and support overall health.

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Why Nutrition Matters with IBD

IBD can:

• Make it harder for your body to absorb vitamins and minerals
• Increase your need for protein and calories
• Cause appetite loss during flares
• Lead to dehydration from diarrhea

Some medications may also affect appetite, digestion, or nutrient absorption.

During flares, many people tolerate low-fiber and easy-to-digest foods better, while balanced nutrition becomes more important during remission to maintain strength and prevent malnutrition.

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Eating During a Flare vs. When Feeling Well

During a Flare	When Symptoms Are Controlled
Focus on easy-to-digest foods	Focus on balanced nutrition
Limit fiber temporarily	Slowly reintroduce fiber
Eat smaller meals	Aim for nutrient variety
Stay hydrated	Maintain weight and strength

Smaller, more frequent meals may also help reduce digestive strain.

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Foods That Are Often Easier to Tolerate

These are general starting points — individual tolerance varies.

Grains

• White rice
• Oatmeal
• Plain pasta
• White bread or toast
• Refined cereals

Protein (Important for Healing)

Lean protein supports tissue repair and helps prevent muscle loss.

Good options:

• Eggs
• Fish
• Chicken or turkey
• Lean pork
• Tofu
• Smooth nut butters

Low-fat protein sources are often easier to digest during flares.

Dairy (If Tolerated)

Some adults develop lactose sensitivity.

Try:

• Lactose-free milk
• Yogurt with live cultures
• Aged cheeses

Fruits & Vegetables

During symptoms:

Choose:

• Peeled fruits (bananas, applesauce, melon)
• Cooked vegetables without skins or seeds
• Soft or canned fruits

Cooking or steaming can make plant foods easier to digest.

Healthy Fats (In Small Amounts)

• Olive oil
• Canola oil
• Avocado (if tolerated)

Fluids

Hydration is especially important when experiencing diarrhea.

Helpful options:

• Water
• Decaffeinated tea
• Broths
• Oral rehydration drinks

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Foods That May Worsen Symptoms

These may be harder to tolerate during active symptoms:

• Fried or greasy foods
• Spicy foods
• Raw vegetables
• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Carbonated beverages
• Sugary drinks

Some foods may irritate the digestive tract or increase symptoms such as gas or diarrhea.

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Tips for Older Adults Managing IBD

1. Eat Smaller Meals

Aim for 4–6 small meals rather than large ones.

2. Maintain Muscle Strength

Include protein at each meal.

3. Watch for Weight Changes

Unplanned weight loss should be discussed with your provider.

4. Monitor Nutrient Levels

Older adults may be more prone to deficiencies such as:

• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin D
• Iron
• Calcium

5. Consider Supplements

Only under provider guidance.

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Gentle Cooking Methods

Better tolerated options include:

• Baking
• Steaming
• Boiling
• Slow cooking

These methods help preserve nutrients and improve digestibility.

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When to Speak With Your Provider

Contact your care team if you notice:

• Unintentional weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Ongoing diarrhea
• Difficulty swallowing
• Fatigue
• New food intolerances
• Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

A registered dietitian can help personalize your plan.

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Simple Sample Day

Breakfast

• Scrambled eggs
• Toast
• Banana

Snack

• Yogurt or applesauce

Lunch

• Baked chicken
• White rice
• Cooked carrots

Snack

• Crackers with peanut butter

Dinner

• Baked fish
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed zucchini

Hydration

• Water throughout the day

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Key Takeaway

Nutrition is not about restriction — it is about:

✔ Supporting healing
✔ Preventing malnutrition
✔ Maintaining strength
✔ Improving quality of life

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Medical Disclaimer

This educational resource is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Dietary needs vary based on medical history, medications, disease severity, and other health conditions. Patients should consult their healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, starting supplements, or adjusting nutrition during an IBD flare or remission period. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

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Sources:

• https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/legacy/assets/pdfs/diet-nutrition-2013.pdf