Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an autoimmune condition characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Individuals with IBD will go through periods of remission (little to no symptoms) and flares (intense symptoms and inflammation). An individual’s diet can look very different during remission versus a flare. Foods tolerated in periods of remission may not be tolerated during a flare. During a flare, there is an increased risk of nutrient deficiencies, malnutrition, and dehydration. Chronic inflammation can also damage the gut leading to leaky gut, ulcers, and internal bleeding. Implementing various diet and lifestyle changes can help you to reduce IBD symptoms, prevent malnutrition, promote longer periods of remission, and prevent flares.
The Best Diet & Lifestyle Strategies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):
#1: Follow an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
IBD is driven by inflammation and an anti-inflammatory diet can induce longer periods of remission.
Eliminate common pro-inflammatory triggers:
- Gluten
- Dairy
- Refined sugars
- Fried foods
- Alcohol
Increase anti-inflammatory foods:
- Omega-3’s: salmon, tuna, mackerel, anchovies, halibut, sardines, chia seeds, walnuts, and flaxseeds
- Turmeric, green tea, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, sage, rosemary, parsley, and thyme
- Fruits and veggies (tolerance may vary in a flare)
- High-quality proteins
#2: Identify Food Sensitivities
Food sensitivities may exacerbate inflammation, worsen IBD symptoms, and potentially trigger a flare.
- MRT: highest standard of food sensitivity testing.
- MRT is a blood test that quantifies how strongly your immune cells react to foods and food chemicals.
- LEAP: Lifestyle Eating and Performance
- LEAP is the individualized eating plan based on your MRT results. Your dietitian will guide you through the elimination and reintroduction of your most reactive foods to help narrow down your triggers.
#3: Monitor Micronutrients
Individuals with IBD are at an increased risk for nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition due to:
- Poor appetite and low dietary intake during a flare
- Nutrient malabsorption due to intestinal inflammation and certain medications
- Ulcerations and internal bleeding
- Resections of the small intestine or colon
Key nutrients to consider:
- Iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), vitamin B12, folate, protein, and fiber.
Test don’t guess! NutrEval by Genova Diagnostics:
- Comprehensive blood & urine profile that evaluates over 125 biomarkers and assesses the body’s functional need for antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids, digestive support, and more.
Learn more about our testing options here.
Tip#4: Consider Gut-Healing Supplements
Certain supplements can help to further reduce inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, soothe the gut lining, and restore the intestinal barrier.
- Zinc Carnosine
- L-Glutamine
- NAC
- Phosphatidylcholine
- Omega-3’s
- GI-Revive
- Includes L-Glutamine, NAG, Zinc Carnosine, DGL, Aloe Vera, Marshmallow, Slippery Elm, and more!
- UltraInflamX
- Includes Amino Acids, Vitamins A, C, D3, & E, B-Vitamins Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, Curcumin, Quercetin, and more!
Work with one of our registered dietitians to decide what supplements are most appropriate for you.
Tip #5: Manage Stress Levels
High stress can impair digestive function, exacerbate IBD symptoms, promote intestinal inflammation, and potentially trigger a flare.
Include stress-reducing activities daily:
- Journaling
- Deep Breathing
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Therapy
- Massage
Tip #6: Managing IBD Flares
An individual’s diet can look very different during remission versus a flare. Foods tolerated in periods of remission may not be tolerated during a flare. Diet modification may be necessary during a flare to help manage symptoms. Here are general recommendations for a flare:
- Consume smaller, more frequent meals.
- Eat in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Avoid trigger foods.
- Limit insoluble fibers.
- Cook, peel & remove seeds from fruits & veggies.
- Replace fluids & electrolytes.
- Avoid high-fat & greasy foods.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post “The Best Diet & Lifestyle Strategies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).” Let us know what you found helpful in the comments below.
Are you interested in booking an appointment at Clem&Thyme Nutrition? We have three convenient locations in the state of Ohio – our flagship office in Yellow Springs and extension offices in Upper Arlington and Westerville in the Columbus area. We also offer virtual sessions and online programs. You can learn more about our registered dietitians to find the right fit for you. Click here to get started.
