It affects how we feel. The food we eat passes directly through our digestive system - the very part of our body that suffers the most! Foods that are higher in fiber are excellent for those without IBD, and for those with IBD when they are not in a flare. However, during a flare they can essentially act like sandpaper on an open wound. Knowing HOW to get these beneficial foods into our diets is key. Other foods that cause gas and bloating can add to the discomfort.

It affects our inflammatory response. While there are foods that may not immediately make us feel awful, they may have a large impact on the diversity of our gut bacteria and affect how the immune system behaves and how our body produces inflammation.

It affects our overall nutrient status. It is more challenging for those with IBD to get the vitamins and minerals we need due to food limiting, poor appetite and poor absorption. Consuming foods that are as nutrient dense as possible is imperative and supplementation is often needed. The nutrients we may not be getting enough of are not only important for normal functioning, but are often needed in greater than average quantities to help aid in the healing process.