5 Best Foods for People with Crohn's Disease

If you suffer from Crohn's disease, you understand the difficulties of choosing the right meal option. While you may have to actively manage your diet, it is possible to have a nutritional diet plan providing the calories you need, while making sure your Crohn's symptoms don't flare up. Of course, there are some foods that aggravate Crohn's symptoms, but there are other great food options that are easy on your stomach especially for Crohn's sufferers. Some foods actually promote healthy digestion and should definitely be included in your diet regardless of your requirements. Here are 5 Crohn friendly foods that your stomach will thank you for: 

Oatmeal

Not only is oatmeal a comfort food, but it also contains soluble fiber which absorbs water and passes more slowly through the digestive tract. This is a great meal option for breakfast especially if you have very soft-cooked oatmeal.

Salmon

Lean protein, like seafood, can be extremely beneficial, especially fish that are high in omega-3s, like salmon. Omega-3s are known to have an anti-inflammatory effect and are gentle on the stomach. This superfood also contains potassium, which helps your body maintain fluid balance even when you have a flare. Other fish such as shrimp and white flaky fish like tilapia and flounder are also nutritious and easily digestible. It's recommended preparing seafood by steaming, broiling or grilling, and try to avoid the deep-fat fryer. Also, be mindful when adding sauces or additions that may contain ingredients that are harder to digest, such as sugar or certain spices.

Mashed Potatoes

While the high fiber potato skins increase inflammation, its what's beneath the skin which will keep you smiling! Mashed potatoes can be great to eat during a Crohn's flare-up. They contain potassium and can be either baked or broiled. Skim milk can substitute traditional dairy milk when preparing for added precaution. Try pairing skinless potatoes with salmon to make a great meal that the whole family can enjoy!

Avocado

Soft, smooth, and chock-full of good fats. Avocados are packed with B vitamins, vitamin E, and potassium. They're also one of the only fruits that contain digestion-friendly soluble fiber along with the insoluble type. Consuming avocado is good news for someone with Crohn's, as it's an easily digestible, good-for-you fruit loaded with vitamins. These green fruits don't have to be reserved for guacamole and salads. Try adding them to smoothies or using them as a substitute for oil in muffin and cake recipes. Bottom line, this super fruit should definitely be on the menu if you have Crohn's disease.

Eggs

When you have inflammation or are recovering from a flare, you may need extra protein. Animal proteins such as eggs, contain amino acids, which perform a number of functions, including cell growth and tissue repair. Eggs are generally well tolerated and easy to digest, not to mention the variety of ways you can prepare them! Scrambled, hard-boiled, soft-cooked-any way you prepare them, eggs are an inexpensive source of easily digested protein. Make sure you've always got some in the fridge!