NUTRITIONAL PROBLEMS IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD)

Inflammation is the main feature of IBD, whether it's Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or one of the rarer IBD conditions. In IBD, inflammation damages cells and tissues of the intestines which prevents proper nutrient absorption. As a result, some of the nutrients are wasted.

IBD inflammation can cause unpleasant symptoms which can result in less eating throughout the day. This means that IBD can cause nutrient deficiencies from inflammation (which reduces absorption) and loss of appetite (which reduces nutrient intake). As a result, as many as 25% of people with Crohn's disease will lose weight or will have lost it before coming to see their doctor. Additionally, as many as 25% of children with Crohn's disease will have growth problems.   

Further nutritional problems can develop such as:

•  Low proteins levels, which can decrease tissue repair and decrease immune function
• Dehydration
• Kidney and gallbladder stones
• Weakened bones
• Lactose and sugar intolerance
• Vitamin Deficiencies, including:
  • Vitamin D (important for bone and immune system health)
  • Folate, (important for the nervous system and red blood cell formation)
  • Vitamin B12,  (which protects against anemia and neurologic problems)
• Mineral Loss, including:
  • Calcium, causing osteoporosis (poor bone density)
  • Iron, a major cause of anemia and tiredness
  • Zinc, which can cause rashes and a loss of taste

As a result, it's important to:

• Keep the symptoms under control
• Provide optimal nutrition
• Help the intestine heal