How to Reach a Healthy Weight if You Have IBD
Even with the added hurdles, there are things you can do to achieve or get closer to the weight that’s best for you. “The focus should be on maintaining adequate nutrition and muscle while working toward a weight that supports their long-term health,” Gold says.
Here are some more things to keep in mind, depending on what your goal is.
How to Gain Weight
If you’re underweight, start by seeing your gastroenterologist. Together, you can pinpoint the underlying cause, such as IBD-related inflammation or malabsorption, and talk about appropriate treatment options, says Gold. You can also get tested for any vitamin or nutrient deficiencies.
From there, your doctor can refer you to a registered dietitian (RD) who specializes in IBD. The dietitian can recommend a personalized eating plan that provides enough calories to get you to your weight goal while also meeting your nutritional needs and avoiding foods or textures that could irritate your symptoms,
