2. The Influence of Diet: More Than Just Comfort Food
Now, let’s talk about diet. We’re not just referring to eating foods that are easy on the gut. What’s often overlooked is the role of diet in reducing inflammation, a key driver in Crohn’s Disease. Certain foods are proven anti-inflammatory agents. They aren’t cures, but they can play a supportive role in management.
You might be wondering why diet plays such an essential role, especially in a disease that’s fundamentally not ’caused’ by diet. It turns out that the gastrointestinal tract is host to a community of microbes that can be affected by what you eat. This microbiome plays an essential role in inflammation and immune responses, both of which are key aspects of Crohn’s.
Ever heard of the term ‘nutritional therapy’? In Crohn’s management, it’s not just a fad. Nutritional therapy aims to provide the body with essential nutrients that may be lacking due to malabsorption. This becomes especially critical during flare-ups when the body needs all the resources it can get to heal and recover.
On the flip side, there are foods and substances that can aggravate Crohn’s symptoms. Alcohol, for instance, can inflame the gut lining and is best avoided. Same goes for spicy foods or those high in fat. Knowledge of such trigger foods can empower a patient to make informed dietary choices, thereby avoiding unnecessary flare-ups. (2)
