A stricture is a narrowed section in the intestines. The intestines are normally an open tube (much like a hose) that allows food to pass through and become digested. For people with Crohn’s disease, the small intestine can become narrowed over time as inflammation causes scarring. The scars in the small intestine can become so prevalent that they actually start to block the open space inside, causing a stricture.
Strictures are of great concern to people with Crohn’s disease because if a stricture causes the small intestine to become too tight on the inside, it could lead to a blockage (bowel obstruction). Blockages can be caused by one or more of several different factors, including adhesions, scar tissue, inflammation, or undigested food.
If you have a stricture, some of the foods that you may want to avoid, limit, or chop and cook very well before eating are listed below.
In a best-case scenario, a dietitian or nutritionist with experience in managing patients with strictures should provide assistance with a diet plan. In some cases, a low fiber, or restricted-fiber diet may be recommended for a short period of time.
Cutting nutritional foods out of the diet whole-scale is typically not recommended. However, in the case of strictures, certain foods might need to be avoided for a period of time until the stricture is resolved. Patients who have any questions regarding their diet should always consult their gastroenterologist.
