Alcohol and Crohn's Disease: What You Need to Know

Crohn's disease is an inflammation in the digestive tract, usually the small intestine. It can cause bleeding, diarrhea and trouble with digestion.

Expert Insight

• According to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, as of 2009 there's no official recommendation that alcohol should be avoided.

Effects

• Some people with Crohn's experience discomfort after drinking alcohol, in those cases it should be avoided.

Significance

• Alcohol is fermented and creates gas in the intestines; this can add pressure to an already inflamed small intestine.

Prevention/Solution

• The symptoms of Crohn's disease may come and go over time, but if you have a sensitivity to alcohol you may want to avoid it even when you have no symptoms.

Considerations

• Some people with Crohn's disease have no problem drinking alcohol; monitor your body's response to decide if alcohol will be a problem for you.