There Isn’t One Perfect IBD Diet
Finding Foods That Work
The best way to expand your palate is to try new foods and monitor how your gut reacts. For me, I try to identify the foods that upset my stomach by noting my reactions. Over time, you’ll understand what type of ingredients and foods your body likes and doesn’t like, just by looking at a wide array of foods you try. You should not be afraid to try something new!
Eating Out With IBD
Going to restaurants with IBD is far less complicated than many may believe. Instead of completely restricting myself, I try to find healthier alternatives to the foods I love. For example, swapping regular pasta for gluten-free pasta/brown rice pasta or picking a sauce that’s less heavy on the stomach: alfredo → tomato. Asking restaurant staff in advance whether they can make customizations (e.g., removing chili flakes or substituting one ingredient for another) is also helpful.
Restaurants with IBD-Friendly Options
Restaurants with "build-your-own" food are the best bet for IBD because you can choose which ingredients go into your food and the quantity of each, based on your tolerance.
Chipotle (Build-your-own bowls)
Cava (Bowls are healthy, nutritious, and customizable)
Sweetgreen (salads and warm bowls)
California Pizza Kitchen (Gluten-free options for pasta and pizzas)
P.F. Chang’s (Rice, Noodles, Protein)
