The biggest problem caused by Crohn's disease the impaired function of the digestive system. Because most cases of this condition begin within the intestines, the body is unable, at times, to pull what it needs from the foods you eat each day. There are many times when Crohn's disease and nutrition supplements, along with diets and stress relief go hand in hand.

When the body is not getting what it needs, it begins to rely on the fat stores for what it requires. Crohn's sufferers begin to lose weight, can feel extremely frail, and have problems with staying awake. Though for a lot of sufferers there are long periods of remission, it is a good idea to keep on top of your nutritional intake at all times.

Crohn's patients soon learn that they are going to spend a lot of time in the bathroom, and this is usually one of the reasons sufferers seek treatment in the first place. When diarrhea becomes a common occurrence, the body is not taking what it needs. The foods are simply moving through the system too fast.

After a while, a patient will know what is 'normal' for them in terms of bowel habits, and they will know when things begin to get worse, and they may even notice blood in the stool. When that happens, medical advice is needed as soon as possible.

The inflammation that occurs in the intestines leads to a series of complications. The tract may become blocked, and that means nothing is going to go through. There can be perforations that develop, which can lead to waste matter leaking out of the intestines and into the body.

There are also ulcers, tears, and abscesses that can occur, and they can all lead to a rapid decline in health. When any of these things happen, a doctor will probably recommend a surgical procedure to help a patient regain good health, at least for a little while. Some fear surgery, but in these cases, it should be strongly recommended. If it is refused, the body can start to deteriorate very quickly.

The Specific Carb Diet is sometimes recommended to patients who are not getting proper nutrition. This diet is very restrictive, but often helps reduce symptoms and allows the intestine time to heal. It eliminates many of the foods that might aggravate Crohn's, and can help restore good health for some. Some people can remove just one troublesome item to begin to feel better. There are many Crohn's patients who are also intolerant of lactose, which is found in milk and many milk products. Taking away milk can sometimes be all a patient needs to do, but they must find ways to replace that lost source of calcium and vitamin D.

Many doctors are reluctant to discuss Crohn's disease and nutrition with some patients, because they feel that a patient that limits their diet is aggravating an already tenuous situation. They know that by further restricting your diet you may eliminate many of the vital nutrients your body desperately needs.

You may need to take vitamins to help replace some of the lost nutrients. However, it is essential that you talk to your doctor before you start taking any supplements, or before removing food items from your diet. It's important to find the right balance when treating your Crohn's disease and nutrition intake.