Diet & Nutrition for IBD

Malnutrition is common in people living with IBD, even if weight loss is not obvious. Inflammation, decreased appetite, nutrient malabsorption, and surgery can make it difficult to get the calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals your body need.

Learn how to recognize the signs of malnutrition, understand your nutritional risk, and work with your healthcare team to build a nutrition plan that supports your health.

People with IBD may be at increased risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies, including iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, folate, and zinc. These nutrients (known as micronutrients) play an important role in energy, bone health, immune function, and overall wellness.

Discover which nutrients may require monitoring and when supplements may be appropriate as part of your personalized care plan.

Nutrition is an important part of preparing for surgery and supporting recovery afterward. Depending on the type of surgery you have, your nutritional needs may change, and some people may require specialized diets or additional nutritional support during recovery.

Learn how proper nutrition can help promote healing, maintain strength, and support long-term digestive health after IBD surgery.

Nutritional support therapy may be recommended when complications from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, such as severe inflammation, weight loss, surgery, or bowel obstruction, make it difficult to get enough nutrition from food alone.

Depending on your needs, your doctor may recommend enteral nutrition (liquid formula) or parenteral nutrition (intravenous nutrition) to help maintain your health and support recovery.