Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects millions worldwide. It causes inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Managing Crohn’s often requires a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes.
For many patients, diet plays a crucial role. Among the dietary approaches, the Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED) has gained attention for helping manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This guide explains what the CDED entails, the foods to focus on, those to avoid, and practical tips for implementing it effectively.
What Is the Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet?
The Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet is a structured eating plan designed to reduce inflammation, promote gut healing, and prevent symptom flare-ups. Unlike other diets that merely suggest avoiding certain trigger foods, the CDED emphasizes completely excluding specific ingredients while focusing on safe, nutrient-rich options.
Research has shown that the CDED helps reduce disease activity in those with Crohn’s. It offers a realistic, non-invasive way to manage symptoms while supporting overall health.
By following this Crohn’s disease diet plan, individuals can take a proactive approach towards managing their symptoms and promoting gut health.
Key benefits of the CDED include:
- Reducing inflammation in the gut.
- Minimizing digestive discomfort.
- Supporting nutrient absorption and energy levels.
- Enhancing the effectiveness of medical treatments for Crohn’s.
The Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet: A Three-Phase Approach
The CDED uses three six-week phases to carefully eliminate, reintroduce, and maintain foods that support gut healing.
Phase 1 focuses on strict elimination and healing, Phase 2 introduces variety while monitoring symptoms, and Phase 3 aims for long-term dietary management to support health and reduce flare-ups. Each phase gradually reintroduces foods to support gut health while avoiding triggers.
Phase 1 (Weeks 1-6): Elimination and Healing
During the first six weeks, the focus is on eliminating inflammatory and hard-to-digest foods while providing essential nutrients to promote healing.
Foods to Include:
- Lean Proteins: Skinless chicken, turkey, white fish (like cod), eggs, or plant-based options like tofu.
- Cooked, Low-Fiber Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, spinach, peeled potatoes, or squash, all cooked until very soft.
- Refined Grains: White rice, plain white bread, rice noodles, or pasta for easy digestion.
- Fruits (Peeled and Seedless): Bananas, melons, applesauce, or canned fruits in juice (not syrup).
- Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Low-fat, lactose-free yogurt, hard cheeses, or alternatives like unsweetened almond or rice milk.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil or avocado oil in small amounts.
- Others: Broth-based soups, low-fat homemade stocks, and herbal teas.
Foods to Avoid:
- Raw vegetables, whole grains, high-fat dairy, fried or fatty foods, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Phase 2 (Weeks 7-12): Gradual Reintroduction
As symptoms improve, Phase 2 allows for a gradual reintroduction of certain foods while monitoring tolerance. The goal is to expand dietary variety without triggering a flare-up.
Foods to Include (in addition to Phase 1 foods):
- Proteins: Salmon and other fatty fish (in small portions) and lean cuts of beef or pork.
- Cooked Vegetables: Continue with soft, low-fiber vegetables, but experiment with a few peeled and well-cooked additions, such as green beans or sweet potatoes.
- Fruits: Gradually add soft, peeled fruits like peaches or pears and small amounts of fresh melon.
- Starches: Test tolerance with potatoes, polenta, or small amounts of oats (cooked).
Foods to Avoid:
- Continue avoiding raw vegetables, whole-grain products, high-lactose dairy, fried foods, and known irritants like spicy dishes or carbonated drinks.
Phase 3 (Weeks 13+): Long-Term Maintenance
The final phase focuses on maintaining a diverse, nutrient-rich diet while identifying any personal triggers. The ultimate goal is to support gut health and prevent flare-ups.
Foods to Include:
- Proteins: Broaden protein options, including grass-fed meats, more fish varieties, and lentils (if tolerated).
- Vegetables: Introduce small amounts of raw, low-fiber vegetables like cucumbers or lettuce, keeping portions controlled.
- Whole Grains: Slowly reintroduce small portions of whole-grain bread, quinoa, or brown rice if they don’t cause symptoms.
- Fruits: Expand to include more fresh, peeled fruits, avoiding those with high acidity or seeds.
- Dairy: Test tolerance with low-fat milk or yogurt and harder cheeses like cheddar.
Foods to Avoid (if still triggering):
- Raw vegetables with tough skins, high-fat or sugary dairy products, fried foods, processed snacks, and sugary drinks.
Tips for Successfully Implementing the Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet
Adapting to a new way of eating can feel overwhelming, but with the Crohn’s disease exclusion diet (CDED), it becomes a powerful tool in managing symptoms and supporting Crohn’s disease treatment. Here are practical strategies to make following the CDED easier and more effective:
1. Work With a Healthcare Professional
Every person’s triggers and tolerance levels are unique. Collaborate with your gastroenterologist or dietitian to create a personalized version of the CDED that works best for you.
2. Plan Your Meals Ahead
Prepare compliant meals and snacks in advance to avoid accidentally resorting to non-compliant options. Batch cooking meals like soups, rice, and baked chicken can save time and effort.
3. Keep a Food Journal
Track your meals and symptom patterns in a notebook or app. This helps identify how specific foods impact your condition and allows adjustments when necessary.
4. Start Slowly
Gradually transition to the exclusion diet instead of going all-in on day one. Replace problematic foods with safer alternatives over a week.
5. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is common among Crohn’s patients, especially during flare-ups. Drink plenty of water and include hydrating foods like soups and herbal teas.
6. Join a Support Group
Connect with others managing Crohn’s disease through local meetups or social media communities. Sharing challenges and tips can foster a sense of camaraderie and encouragement.
7. Experiment With Cooking Methods
Baking, steaming, and boiling tend to make foods easier to digest. Experiment with different methods to find meals that suit your tastes and tolerance.
Consistency and preparation are key to successfully adhering to this diet.
Eating for Better Digestive Health
The Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet offers a science-backed approach to managing symptoms and improving gut health. By focusing on nutrient-rich, easy-to-digest foods and avoiding potential triggers, patients can take an active role in their treatment and improve their quality of life.
It’s important to remember that a healthcare professional can guide you toward the best treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you’re considering trying the CDED, consult with a gastroenterologist to ensure it aligns with your medical management.
If you are looking for services in gastroenterology in Chesapeake or Virginia Beach, contact Gastroenterology Associates of Tidewater. Our board-certified GI experts specialize in Crohn’s disease and other gastrointestinal disease treatments. Take the next step toward better digestive health. Call (757) 547-0798 to schedule an appointment today.
