Surgery may not be appropriate for everyone. Patient advocacy organizations can suggest support groups and other information resources. People with Crohn's disease may feel well and be free of symptoms for substantial spans of time when their disease is not active. Despite the need to take medication for long periods of time and occasional hospitalizations, most people with Crohn's disease are able to hold jobs, raise families, and function successfully at home and in society. No special diet has been proven effective for preventing or treating this disease.
Some people find their symptoms are made worse by milk, alcohol, hot spices, or fiber.
People are encouraged to follow a nutritious diet and avoid any foods that seem to worsen symptoms. But there are no consistent rules. People should take vitamin supplements only on their doctor's advice. Research has shown that the course of pregnancy and delivery is usually not impaired in women with Crohn's disease. Even so, women with Crohn's disease should discuss the matter with their doctors before pregnancy.