Inflammatory Bowel Disease FAQs

No one knows exactly what causes IBD, but several factors can increase the risk of developing it:

• Diet – A diet high in processed food, fat and animal protein can increase the risk of developing IBD
• Family history – Having a family member with the disease increases your risk
• Overactive immune response – IBD may start as a response to a virus or bacteria, but the immune system never shuts off, causing chronic inflammation
• Microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis) – The bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microorganisms (both beneficial and harmful) normally found in the GI tract become imbalanced, leading to digestive issues
• Age – IBD can occur at any age, but many people are diagnosed at age 30 or younger and age 60+
• Geographic area – IBD is more prevalent in developed countries, urban areas and northern climates
• Lifestyle – Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise and use of certain medications can also raise your risk

No single diet works for everyone with IBD. A dietary plan should be customized for you based on the part of your intestine affected, your symptoms and whether you’re experiencing a flare-up. Ask your Mercy gastroenterologist about nutritional counseling.
 

A few general tips include:

• Find your food triggers – Dairy, caffeine and spicy foods may worsen IBD symptoms; use a food diary to help identify your triggers
• Avoid fatty foods – Inflamed intestines don’t absorb fat well, and eating foods high in fat can make diarrhea worse
• Regulate fiber intake – While fiber is part of a healthy diet, it can sometimes worsen IBD symptoms; during flare-ups, reduce your fiber intake
• Eat smaller meals – Even when your appetite is low, you need food to function; try eating five or six small meals versus two or three large ones
• Follow a Mediterranean-style diet – If you’re in remission, a diet rich in fiber and plant-based foods, including olive oil, low-fat dairy, herbs, and spices can help you continue to manage IBD symptoms; avoid red and processed meats as well as sweets

Many people with IBD manage their conditions and maintain a normal lifestyle. These tips may help:

• Take your medications as prescribed – Staying on top of your medication is your first line of defense for managing IBD
• Exercise – Your digestive tract benefits from exercise, and staying active also supports your psychological health
• Stop smoking – Smoking can cause IBD flare-ups, worsen inflammation and lead to complications
• Avoid alcohol – Alcohol may interact with your medications and can also worsen inflammation
• Avoid food triggers – Certain foods may trigger symptoms like bloating and cramping — and they’re different for everyone; keeping a food diary can help identify them
• Stay hydrated – It’s harder for your digestive tract to absorb water when it’s inflamed; drinking plain water versus other beverages is best

People with well-managed IBD have similar fertility rates as those who don’t. But women with IBD are at higher risk of pregnancy complications like preterm and cesarean delivery. And certain types of IBD medications may reduce sperm count. Talk with your Mercy gastroenterologist about any fertility concerns.

Smoking can cause IBD flare-ups, worsen inflammation and lead to serious health complications. The American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking® program is an excellent resource for people who want to quit smoking.

If your digestive system can’t process food or needs complete rest, TPN may be recommended. TPN is liquid nutrition delivered through a catheter that’s inserted into a vein. The nutrients go directly into your blood instead of the digestive tract.