Do any supplements or foods benefit people with Crohn's disease? Are there any supplements that should be avoided?

Answer:

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that damages the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. This damage and associated treatments and changes in diet can interfere with the body's ability to absorb vitamins, minerals and other nutrients from food, and cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue.

While there is little evidence that supplements can slow the damage or reduce symptoms of Crohn's, vitamin and mineral supplements can help to prevent or treat deficiencies and the symptoms caused by these deficiencies, such as fatigue caused by iron-deficiency anemia. There is also evidence that following certain diets may be beneficial. However, be aware that people with Crohn's disease should consult with their healthcare provider before taking supplements or making changes to their diets.

Sign in as a member for more details about supplements that may be helpful, and those that may be potentially harmful, for people with Crohn’s disease, including B vitamins (including folate, thiamin, vitamin B-6 and B-12) calcium, curcumin, fish oil, iron, magnesium, melatonin, multivitamins, N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG), selenium, probiotics, vitamin D, vitamin K, and zinc, as well as information about foods such as bone broth, and diets including the low-FODMAP, Mediterranean diet, and Specific Carbohydrate diets. Also learn about a potential concern with dishwasher rinse aids (and if vinegar or lemon juice are good alternatives to rinse aids).