Center for Applied Nutrition Blog

Hi,

I am very interested in learning more about this diet. My 22-year old son was diagnosed a few months ago with Crohn’s while he was on a training course in another state. It began with an upper respiratory infection, and then he had cramps and started seeing pink mucous and tissue in his stool, but NO watery diarrhea. CT scan showed mesenteric lymph nodes enlarged, he was anemic, and he has a slightly elevated liver enzyme. Colonoscopy 5 weeks in was consistent with Crohn’s colitis. He was put on prednisone, but was allergic to sulfasalazine. He is now home, on Pentasa and awaiting a follow up Colonoscopy with local GI specialist who said if it is Crohn’s, it is extensive, and he will be going on a biologic, that Pentasa is not likely to be effective.  

I am dismayed that the specialists are unable to give any recommendations regarding diet and supplements, beyond the typical low fiber US food recommendations.   

I can see the basics of the diet in your previous study but have questions about whether rice, quinoa, potatoes are allowed, also if alcohol of any kind is permitted. (He is 22 and likes beer but is willing to not drink it, despite the doc saying it is fine.) 

Thank you for any help you might offer. 

Sincerely,

Jane Mom

Barbara's Response: 

Hi Jane,

Thank you so much for your inquiry.  I have a lot of information that may help you, and we ultimately will want to customize the diet to your son's concerns (i.e.; any symptoms, his labs, his anemia).  One diet, no matter how carefully it is researched, cannot fit everyone. 

Please see the food lists and menu options, for some ideas of what to eat in phase 1 or 2 of the diet (he needs softened foods, please see the quick reference handout for how to judge the phases). Yes, some alcohol is ok (but not on an empty stomach).  But not beer I’m afraid. In the beginning, to strengthen the microbiome quicker, please have your son stay away from rice, quinoa, and potatoes (sweet potatoes ok but not often). 

The mucus indicates some intestinal permeability...you might want to think of adding a supplement, Sacchromyces Boulardii, 1 twice daily (find quality good brands).

It’s all about balance.  It takes time to learn, but diet can really help.  Look carefully at all 4 areas of concentration:  prebiotics, probiotics, and avoidance of foods thought to feed pathogenic bacteria, and inclusion of nutrients needed for good health. 

All the best to you!~  

Barbara