Crohn's Nutritionists and Dietitians in Du Page County, IL

Photo of Sofia Mendes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sofia Mendes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
(630) 496-4611 View (630) 496-4611
Photo of Ashley McTaggart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Ashley McTaggart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
(773) 372-0099 View (773) 372-0099

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Anna Velazquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Velazquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
(561) 709-2317 View (561) 709-2317
Photo of Kelly Duncombe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Duncombe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
Meet Kelly, a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a passion for the profound connection between food, health, and the human body. Kelly's journey in the realm of nutrition has been fueled by her unwavering commitment to promoting well-being and her insatiable curiosity for learning. With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health. Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
(872) 259-6187 View (872) 259-6187
Photo of Jacs Scheinman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Jacs Scheinman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
(847) 910-3662 View (847) 910-3662
Photo of Shilpa K Patel - Energycompass, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Energycompass
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Barrington, IL 60010
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
(847) 994-4313 View (847) 994-4313
Photo of Kelly Bay, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Kelly Bay
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CNS, DC
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
My ideal clients are individuals experiencing complex, chronic health concerns such as gut issues, hormone imbalance, autoimmune conditions, thyroid dysfunction, food sensitivities, and low energy or poor sleep. They often feel frustrated by vague symptoms or inconclusive conventional testing and want deeper answers. I use a functional, whole-body approach with in-depth assessment and diagnostic testing to identify root causes. Together, we use personalized nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and education to improve symptoms and restore confidence in their health.
(708) 938-3273 View (708) 938-3273
Photo of Alexa Morello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Alexa Morello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
(708) 991-5413 View (708) 991-5413
Photo of Randi Andres, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
(305) 614-9182 View (305) 614-9182
Photo of Kristin Paver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristin Paver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Issues (IBS, IBD), Crohn's, Celiac, Weight Management for Adults/Adolescents, Diabetes, GERD, Allergy Nutrition, PCOS, Cardiovascular Disease, Kidney Disorders, High Blood Pressure, and other conditions.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
(205) 880-1640 View (205) 880-1640
Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Amelia Provost - All Access Dieitians, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
All Access Dieitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
As a Dietitian Coach with All Access Dietitians, we commit to a 12 session program with all clients. The program is rooted in positive psychology to enable behavior change towards your health and wellness goals, blending the science of nutrition with the art of coaching. If you are someone looking for the accountability and guidance to change your health habits, improve your bloodwork, manage your chronic condition through diet and build your toolbox of resources for sustainable change, this will be a great fit for you.
As a Dietitian Coach with All Access Dietitians, we commit to a 12 session program with all clients. The program is rooted in positive psychology to enable behavior change towards your health and wellness goals, blending the science of nutrition with the art of coaching. If you are someone looking for the accountability and guidance to change your health habits, improve your bloodwork, manage your chronic condition through diet and build your toolbox of resources for sustainable change, this will be a great fit for you.
(872) 244-6171 View (872) 244-6171
Photo of Juhi Shah, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Juhi Shah
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60654
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
(815) 605-2571 View (815) 605-2571
Photo of Cecille Biaggi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Cecille Biaggi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Cecille Biaggi, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian passionate about helping people build a healthier relationship with food while improving overall health. She supports individuals with weight management, metabolic health, and chronic conditions using practical, evidence-based strategies. Cecille believes nutrition should feel realistic and sustainable—not restrictive—and helps clients build habits that fit their lifestyle. Her goal is to boost confidence, improve health markers, and create long-term habits that last.
Cecille Biaggi, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian passionate about helping people build a healthier relationship with food while improving overall health. She supports individuals with weight management, metabolic health, and chronic conditions using practical, evidence-based strategies. Cecille believes nutrition should feel realistic and sustainable—not restrictive—and helps clients build habits that fit their lifestyle. Her goal is to boost confidence, improve health markers, and create long-term habits that last.
(872) 278-3254 View (872) 278-3254
Photo of Ashley Walls, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more.
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more.
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition
(312) 262-7112 View (312) 262-7112
Photo of Holly Zabrin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Holly Zabrin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RDN, LDN, CEDS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Holly (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) who has dedicated her career to helping individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. She also provides support for those with co-occurring conditions with particular interest in diabetes, gastrointestinal issues and mood/anxiety concerns.
Holly (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) who has dedicated her career to helping individuals with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. She also provides support for those with co-occurring conditions with particular interest in diabetes, gastrointestinal issues and mood/anxiety concerns.
(224) 242-3132 View (224) 242-3132
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Ashley Lakin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Ashley Lakin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
I am especially passionate about working with individuals through all phases of life to address hormonal concerns, such as infertility, menopause, PCOS, endometriosis, and postpartum mood disorders. My practice is HAES-aligned and LGBTQIA-friendly. I believe that everyone deserves evidence-based, compassionate care that honors their identity, autonomy, and whole-person wellbeing.
I am especially passionate about working with individuals through all phases of life to address hormonal concerns, such as infertility, menopause, PCOS, endometriosis, and postpartum mood disorders. My practice is HAES-aligned and LGBTQIA-friendly. I believe that everyone deserves evidence-based, compassionate care that honors their identity, autonomy, and whole-person wellbeing.
(847) 665-1958 View (847) 665-1958
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
(332) 249-8428 View (332) 249-8428
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn's Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn's Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
Crohn's Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is Crohn's disease?
Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation in the intestines. It is considered an autoimmune condition, where the immune system becomes overactive in the lining of the digestive tract, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and the presence of blood or mucus in the stool. People with Crohn's disease can experience complications like infections and malnutrition and have an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, there are few definitive treatments for Crohn's disease. However, some patients are prescribed immunosuppressant drugs or steroids, which reduce the immune response and can help reduce symptoms of the disease.

Can Crohn's disease be cured with proper nutrition?
There is little evidence to suggest that Crohn's disease can be cured through nutrition. However, certain foods may worsen symptoms or trigger flare-ups. Common examples include dairy products, high-fat foods, processed meats, high-fiber foods, and beverages containing alcohol or sugar alcohol. People with Crohn's disease are generally advised to avoid foods that exacerbate their symptoms and to focus on consuming regular meals with adequate protein and nutrient density to prevent malnutrition.

What can you eat if you have Crohn's disease?
With the exception of avoiding foods that may exacerbate symptoms, individuals with Crohn's disease are often advised to consume a normal diet. Since Crohn's disease is an autoimmune condition and not caused by specific foods, it is generally recommended that individuals eat a regular and balanced diet as much as they can tolerate.

Should people with Crohn's disease see a dietitian?
People with Crohn's disease are at a greater risk of malnutrition and weight loss, as well as nutrient deficiencies, due to the poor absorption within the digestive track that can occur as a result of the disease. Therefore, dietitians can be highly beneficial to people with Crohn's disease to minimize the potential effects of malnutrition and ensure daily nutrient needs are being met. They may help people with Crohn's disease identify foods that contain sufficient calories and nutrients but minimize symptoms, such as suggesting iron-rich foods for clients with anemia. People with Crohn's disease also often experience flare-ups followed by periods of relief, so dietitians may be helpful in assisting clients in identifying food or nutrition-related factors that may contribute to or worsen their flare-ups.