Three Smart Diet Strategies for Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis

If you or someone close to you is living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (UC), you’ll know how unpredictable flare-ups can be. But did you know that the food you choose during these times can make a real difference? Certain dietary patterns have been shown to ease symptoms, reduce inflammation, and even support long-term gut healing.

As a Dubai-based Consultant Gastroenterologist with over 20 years of clinical experience in IBD care, Dr. Pranab Gyawali shares evidence-based strategies that have helped many of his patients manage UC and Crohn’s more effectively.

1. Mediterranean Diet: A Proven Inflammation Fighter

There’s growing evidence that a traditional Mediterranean-style diet offers real benefits for patients with UC and Crohn’s. One study published in Nutrients found that patients following this diet had:

• Lower inflammation markers
• More diverse gut microbiota
• Higher levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii – a key butyrate-producing bacteria associated with gut health

What to include:

• A colorful variety of fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains like oats and quinoa
• Healthy fats such as olive oil
• Lean proteins including grilled fish and poultry

This approach is not only nutritious but also sustainable in the long term — and many ingredients are readily available here in Dubai.

2. Whole-Food Plant-Based Diet: Feeding the Good Bugs

A 2024 study in Gastroenterology highlighted that patients with UC who adopted a whole-food, plant-based diet experienced milder flares and fewer hospital visits.

Why it works:

• High in fiber that nourishes the gut microbiome
• Encourages the production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which support gut lining integrity
• Reduces ultra-processed food intake, which is often linked to flares

Tips for getting started:

• Introduce fiber gradually to prevent bloating. In Crohns, talk to your specialist first.
• Focus on unprocessed, natural ingredients – think lentils, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds

3. Low-FODMAP Diet: Short-Term Relief for Digestive Discomfort

If you're dealing with bloating, cramps, or gas, a short-term low-FODMAP diet may help. A 2019 study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology showed that a 4-week low-FODMAP plan improved GI symptoms — but it didn’t have a long-term effect on inflammation.

Best used for:

• Symptom relief during acute phases
• Identifying food triggers under supervision

Examples of low-FODMAP foods:

• Fruits like bananas and strawberries
• Vegetables such as cucumbers and potatoes
• Quinoa, oats, and eggs

Note: This diet isn’t meant for long-term use, as it can reduce beneficial gut bacteria. Always speak to a healthcare professional before starting.

“Diet is not one-size-fits-all in IBD. Especially during a flare, it's vital to have medical guidance.”
— Dr. Pranab Gyawali

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I eat during an IBD flare-up?
Focus on anti-inflammatory, easily digestible foods. The Mediterranean and plant-based diets are both excellent starting points.

Is the low-FODMAP diet good for UC or Crohn’s?
Yes — but only as a temporary strategy to ease digestive symptoms. It should be guided by a dietitian or gastroenterologist.

Where can I find Crohn’s and UC care in Dubai?
Dr. Pranab Gyawali sees patients at Mubadala Health – Jumeirah. He is UK-trained with a special interest in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Can food really help control my IBD?
Diet alone isn’t a cure, but the right nutritional approach can play a powerful role in reducing flare frequency, managing symptoms, and supporting gut health.