Inflammatory Bowel Disease

The two most common forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Due to parts of the digestive system being damaged, it is common for the absorption of important nutrients to be affected in IBD. So it is important that the individual nutritional needs of people with IBD are met.

IBD is a term used to describe conditions in which the intestine is inflamed. The cause of IBD is unknown and symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea and weight loss.

Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract from the mouth to the anus. The most common sites of inflammation are the small and large intestine with the entire thickness of the intestinal wall being affected.

Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the surface of the large intestine.

Nutrition and IBD

Due to parts of the digestive system being damaged, it is common for the absorption of important nutrients to be affected IBD. This may lead to anaemia and weight loss. It is important that the individual nutritional needs of people with IBD are met. When the disease is not active, a healthy balanced diet will meet nutritional needs. However, during times of active disease, it may be necessary to include nourishing supplements or to use tube or intravenous feeding to meet nutritional needs.

Anti-inflammatory drugs are also often used in IBD to reduce inflammation and improve the ability to digest food.


An Accredited Practising Dietitian can provide expert dietary advice during remission and active disease to ensure that nutritional needs are met.