Can Crohn’s be treated with a change in diet?

DR WARUSAVITARNE says: ‘In Crohn’s disease, the immune system produces an automatic, unnecessary response to harmless gut bacteria. It is unknown as to why some people have this reaction and others don’t. It’s likely to be genetic and not linked to diet.’

In fact, specific diets are rarely recommended for Crohn’s disease. A patient may be referred to a dietician only if they have lost a lot of weight and need extra nutrients. While some patients report a reduction in symptoms – such as bloating – when they avoid gluten and wheat-based products, there is no evidence to suggest that this reduces gut ulcers or the narrowing of the bowel which cause the external symptoms.

Gluten can cause bloating in healthy bowels too, as gluten proteins can take longer to be absorbed by the gut for some people.

Hence, some Crohn’s sufferers may experience less bloating by going gluten-free.

The narrowing and inflammation of the bowel are common in Crohn’s disease. Therefore, eating small amounts, rather than large meals, makes it easier for the food to pass through the irritated digestive system, causing less pain and bloating.

While there is no cure for Crohn’s disease, medication that works to suppress the digestive immune system is very effective at treating the symptoms.