Crohn's Disease Dietary Therapy

Minerals

• Calcium – Most adults need 1200 mg of calcium each day.  Calcium can best be obtained from milk, other dairy products, shellfish, and, if needed, calcium supplements.  If you take steroids such as prednisone, it is even more important that you get enough vitamin D and calcium, as steroids are known to weaken bones.  A prebiotic dietary fiber supplement can also help to increase calcium absorption.
• Iron – Many Crohn’s patients have a low iron level, which can lead to anemia.  Your physician will want to check the iron blood level periodically.
• Selenium – Selenium appears to act like an antioxidant in the body.  Some medical studies show that selenium may be low in Crohn’s Disease patients and that they do better when they take a selenium supplement.  200 mg per day is recommended.  Check with your physician.