Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the digestive tract, which often results in abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Because the disease affects the intestines, it’s important for seniors with Crohn’s disease to mind what they eat. Here are five foods Albuquerque, NM, elderly care providers should help seniors avoid.
1. Raw Fruit and Vegetables
Those who live with Crohn’s disease can get quite sick after eating raw fruit and vegetables. Such food is very high in dietary fiber, which normally provides numerous of health benefits. However, fiber requires a lot of water for proper digestion. The gastrointestinal tract can quickly dry out and become vulnerable to irritations that are typical of Crohn’s disease.
2. Fried Food
Individuals who have Crohn’s disease should stay away from fast food establishments. Deep fried food is loaded with saturated and trans fat, which are complex compounds that place a heavy strain on the digestive system. Fried food can also have hard and sharp edges that could potentially puncture through ulcers that are caused by Crohn’s disease.
3. Dairy Products
Crohn’s disease and lactose intolerance often cause similar problems in the gastrointestinal system. In fact, it’s not uncommon for those with Crohn’s disease to develop lactose intolerance. Whether a person has one or both conditions, it’s important to limit the intake of dairy products such as milk, yogurt, ice cream and sour cream.
4. Spicy Food
Spices can severely irritate the intestinal and stomach linings of those who have Crohn’s disease. Such individuals may develop ulcers and have fragile tissue that is very sensitive to potent chemicals found in spicy food. For example, capsaicin is an ingredient that gives chili peppers a distinct spicy taste. Individuals with Crohn’s Disease should also avoid common spice mixtures that contain garlic, onions, rosemary or paprika.
5. Legumes
Beans, lentils, peas and alfalfa are some common legumes that should not be eaten by individuals who have Crohn’s disease. Such food often causes excessive gas production and bloating, even among people who don’t have digestive problems. Legumes can trigger a series of uncomfortable flare-ups because they make the body work harder to digest them.
Diet and nutrition are important aspects of managing not only Crohn’s disease, but also Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Albuquerque, NM, stroke care. When you hire Home Care Assistance to look after your loved one, our highly trained caregivers will see to it that your loved one maintains a healthy diet and regular exercise to boost his or her physical wellbeing. Call 505-798-0800 today to set up a free consultation and learn how Home Care Assistance helps seniors make the most of their golden years.
