Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects approximately 1.4 million Americans.

It causes an abnormal response that triggers inflammation in the digestive tract. Though Crohn’s disease is hard to diagnose, the most common symptoms include watery diarrhea, bloody stools, fever, abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue and low iron levels. Much like a lot of GI conditions, certain foods don’t affect people in the same ways. But, there are a few foods that should be avoided, especially if you’re in the middle of a flare-up. Try to avoid these foods during your holiday dinners if you suffer from Crohn’s Disease:

1. Nuts – Nuts are incredibly nutritious, but people with Crohn’s disease won’t reap the benefits because they can’t digest them, which leads to an irritation of the lining of the gut.

2. Fruit skin – People with Crohn’s disease can still eat fruit, but to avoid irritating the lining of the gut, they should peel the fruit before eating it. Cooked or canned fruits are usually better for people with the inflammatory bowel disease.

3. Popcorn – Popcorn is considered a whole grain, and it’s extremely hard for people with Crohn’s disease to digest.

4. Fried foods – Fried foods are hard for everyone to digest, especially for people with Crohn’s disease.

5. Fatty, cured meats – People with Crohn’s disease should get at least 25 percent of their daily intake from protein. But, it’s important to avoid fatty meats because they can trigger diarrhea and offer little nutritional value.

6. Fruits with seeds – Strawberries, raspberries, and tomatoes don’t get digested completely and can cause watery stools.

7. Coffee – People with minor IBD don’t usually have to cut out caffeine, but people with Crohn’s usually have to cut out caffeine completely. Sodas, coffee and chocolate should be avoided by people with Crohn’s disease.

8. Alcohol – Alcohol doesn’t have to be completely cut out of your diet, but it should be used with caution. If you’re in the middle of a flare-up, avoid beer and red wine and drink only in moderation.

9. Dairy – Lactose intolerance and Crohn’s disease usually go hand in hand. Try soy or almond milk to avoid gas, bloating, and other Crohn’s symptoms.

Treating Crohn’s Disease in Atlanta, GA

Consult your Piedmont Colorectal physician for more information on foods to avoid if you’re suffering from Crohn’s disease and possible ways to treat it.