The IBD Nutrition Book

Arlene M. Gryfe is a Toronto-based professional nutritionist and home
economist.

The term inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to two chronic
conditions—Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—characterized by
recurring inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Because of
associated pain, nausea, and diarrhea, IBD sufferers experience a high
incidence of poor nutrition. Since correcting and preventing poor
nutrition is a key component in the overall core, it is essential that
good nutrition and the structure of a proper diet be clearly understood
by individuals with this condition.

Because there is much confusion concerning diet and IBD, Jan Greenwood,
a practising dietitian, has written this book for those adults involved
with IBD. She describes essential nutrients and their functions clearly
and simply. Normal digestion and absorption, with special adaptation for
children, adolescents, and women in their child-bearing years, are also
discussed.

The author presents guidelines for maximizing the nutrient content of
food by careful selection, storage, preparation, and cooking. More than
75 recipes are provided, with values listed for the major nutrients and
simple dietary modifications provided for special diets (restricted fat,
high energy, etc.). As well, there are daily menus for specific diets
and a simple general weekly menu.

Although the book is suitable for both Americans and Canadians, it
becomes confusing when the author tries to show how the suggested diets
conform to recommended Canadian and U.S. dietary guidelines, which are
similar but not identical. Moreover, some of the Canadian
recommendations she cites were revised in 1993. This is the only flaw in
an otherwise beneficial book.

A resource guide provides further assistance by listing books,
organizations, and public-health professionals, while an extensive
glossary clarifies pertinent medical terms. The book would be of use to
both professional nutritionists and individuals with IBD. Although no
single food or diet can cure the condition, judicious selection can
significantly improve nutritional status and thereby lead to longer
remissions and a better quality of life.