How to prevent or help disease

You should eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. Include enough calories, protein, and nutrients from a variety of food groups.

No specific diet has been shown to make Crohn's symptoms better or worse. Specific food problems may vary from person to person.

However, certain types of foods can make diarrhea and gas worse. To help ease symptoms, try:

Eating small amounts of food throughout the day.
Drinking lots of water (drink small amounts often throughout the day).
Avoiding high-fiber foods (bran, beans, nuts, seeds, and popcorn).
Avoiding fatty, greasy or fried foods and sauces (butter, margarine, and heavy cream).
Limiting dairy products if you have problems digesting dairy fats. Try low-lactose cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar, and an enzyme product, such as Lactaid, to help break down lactose.
Avoiding foods that you know cause gas, such as beans.