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What to Eat During a Crohn’s Flare: 6 Foods That Can Be Easier to Digest

July 24, 2026

Crohn’s disease can make eating feel complicated.

One day, a food seems totally fine. The next, it leaves you bloated, crampy or running to the bathroom. Suddenly, meal planning feels less like “what sounds good?” and more like “what won’t ruin my afternoon?”

That’s because a Crohn’s disease diet is rarely one-size-fits-all.

“Crohn’s disease affects everyone differently, so there isn’t one perfect diet that works for everyone,” says Neil Parikh, MD, a gastroenterologist with Hartford HealthCare’s Digestive Health Institute.

And no, that doesn’t mean living on plain rice and toast forever.

“Food should still be enjoyable,” Dr. Parikh adds. “The goal is to identify foods that are easier on your digestive system while still making sure you’re getting plenty of nutrients.”

So, what should you eat when Crohn’s symptoms flare? Here are six choices that might be easier on your digestive system.

1. Choose cooked vegetables over raw produce

Raw produce can be harder to digest because of its fiber content and texture. Cooking vegetables softens them, making them easier to digest.

Try roasted carrots, steamed zucchini, peeled potatoes or cooked green beans instead of raw broccoli, cabbage or salad greens.

“During symptom flares, we recommend focusing on foods that are easier to break down,” Dr. Parikh notes. “That doesn’t mean avoiding vegetables altogether. It means choosing versions your body can handle.”

> Related: The 8 Best Vegetables for Your Health

2. Try lower-fiber grains when symptoms flare

Whole grains usually get all the love from doctors and nutritionists. But when Crohn’s symptoms are active, high-fiber foods can make cramping, bloating or diarrhea worse.

That’s where lower-fiber grains may be the better choice.

The foods that work best in a Crohn’s disease diet may also change depending on whether you’re having a flare or your symptoms are under control.

“Fiber recommendations can change depending on whether you’re in remission or having a flare,” says Dr. Parikh. “During flares, lower-fiber foods are often easier to tolerate and can help reduce irritation.”

Try white rice, sourdough toast, refined pasta or oatmeal.

“That doesn’t mean white rice is healthier than brown rice,” Dr. Parikh adds. “It’s about choosing the foods that your digestive system needs at that moment.”

> Related; The 10 Best Foods for Your Gut Health

3. Eat smaller meals throughout the day

A big plate of food can be tough on an already sensitive digestive system.

“Try to eat smaller portions more often throughout the day, instead,” says Dr. Parikh. “It can help reduce bloating and discomfort.”

Instead of three large meals, try three smaller meals plus one or two snacks.

“The goal is still to get enough nutrition,” Dr. Parikh adds. “We don’t want you to undereat because you’re afraid of symptoms.”

4. Choose baked or grilled foods instead of fried

Sure, fried foods taste great. But they aren’t great for your digestion.

“Fat can be harder to digest, especially during active inflammation,” says Dr. Parikh. “You might notice that fried foods are more likely to trigger symptoms than baked or grilled versions of the same meal.”

Try baked chicken instead of fried chicken. Roast potatoes instead of fries. Air-fry fish instead of breading and frying it.

> Related: 9 Foods That Can Leave You Feeling Bloated

5. Try lactose-free dairy if milk bothers you

Crohn’s disease and lactose intolerance are not the same thing. But if you have Crohn’s, dairy might make symptoms worse, especially during flares.

If milk, ice cream or creamy sauces trigger bloating, gas or diarrhea, lactose-free options may help.

“Some people with Crohn’s disease tolerate dairy without any issue, while others find it worsens symptoms,” says Dr. Parikh. “It’s different for everyone, so tracking your response can be helpful.”

Try lactose-free milk, lactose-free yogurt or fortified non-dairy alternatives.

“If you avoid dairy, it’s important to think about calcium and vitamin D,” Dr. Parikh adds. “A healthcare provider or dietitian can help make sure you’re not missing key nutrients.”

> Related: 9 Things to Know About Lactose Intolerance

6. Use mild herbs and seasonings for flavor

If hot sauce is your whole personality, this one may hurt a little.

“Spicy foods can irritate your digestive tract,” says Dr. Parikh. “That doesn’t mean you have to avoid spicy food completely, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.”

Try flavoring meals with basil, oregano, ginger, turmeric, lemon, garlic-infused oil or mild spice blends.

“Food doesn’t have to be bland to be gut-friendly,” Dr. Parikh adds. “Many herbs and seasonings add flavor without the irritation.”