NUTRITION IN CROHN'S DISEASE COMPARED TO ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Nutritional problems are often worse in Crohn's disease. There are several reasons:

• Crohn's disease often affects the small intestine, the area where most nutrients are absorbed. Inflammation there means less vitamin, mineral, protein, fat and sugar may be absorbed. The larger the area, the greater chance of poor absorption and the more likely that this will affect more nutrients.
•  When the lower part of the small intestine is involved, the bile that helps to digest fats is lost. So less fat is absorbed plus the bile can act as an irritant in the large intestine.
• When the upper part of the small intestine is inflamed, many have difficulty with sucrose and lactose intolerance. Both intolerances can cause diarrhea with faster intestinal flow, so nutrients have less time for absorption. Also, gases are formed causing bloating
• Intestinal narrowing in Crohn's disease can increase bloating, nausea and decreased appetite
• Crohn's disease can cause infections and inflammation of surrounding tissues. This can increase calories used by the body.