Crohn’s-Friendly Snacks for Better Digestion

Pudding made with almond milk is a creamy, dairy-free option for those with Crohn’s disease. It is soft and easy to digest, providing a sweet treat without heavy dairy or fat content. The almond milk base ensures it’s easier on the stomach, and homemade versions can be sweetened with honey or maple syrup for a gentle, Crohn’s-friendly dessert.

Hard-boiled eggs are a simple, protein-packed snack that is easy to digest. They provide essential amino acids and are gentle on the digestive tract. Hard-boiled eggs are portable, making them an ideal option for a quick, satisfying snack, and they are also rich in vitamins like B12 and choline.

Shredded, skinless boiled chicken is a protein-packed snack that is easy to digest and low in fat. Chicken is a lean source of protein that supports muscle maintenance without adding strain to the digestive system. It's also rich in B vitamins, which support immune health and energy production. This can be eaten alone or mixed with a mild dip like plain yogurt.

A smoothie made with ingredients like ripe banana, unsweetened almond milk, and protein powder is a great Crohn’s-friendly snack. It provides hydration, easy-to-digest carbohydrates, and protein in a smooth, non-irritating form. The natural sugars from the banana can offer a quick energy boost without overwhelming the digestive system.

Plain, low-fat Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, which can help promote gut health. It is easy to digest and provides beneficial bacteria that may support the balance of the gut microbiome. Choosing a low-fat version ensures it's not too heavy or greasy on the stomach, and it can be topped with gentle fruits like bananas for added nutrition.

Cooked, peeled pumpkin is a low-residue vegetable that is mild and easy to digest. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune health, and the soft texture makes it gentle on the stomach. It can be eaten on its own as a simple snack or blended into soups or purees.

Oatmeal made with water is a soothing, low-residue snack that provides soluble fiber, which is gentle on the gut. It’s a good source of slow-releasing carbohydrates, providing steady energy without irritating the digestive system. Oatmeal can be made sweet or savory and is easy to customize based on personal preference.

Plain crackers made from refined grains are low in fiber and are easy to digest. They provide a simple source of carbohydrates that can help curb hunger without irritating the stomach. They can be paired with a mild cheese or non-dairy spread for additional protein and fat without overwhelming the gut.

Peeled cucumber slices are a refreshing, low-residue snack option. They are hydrating and easy to digest, making them perfect for a light snack. Cucumbers are mild and unlikely to cause irritation, and their high water content helps keep the body hydrated. They can be paired with a mild dip for added flavor.

Ripe bananas are gentle on the stomach and provide quick energy in the form of natural sugars. They are rich in potassium, an electrolyte that may be lost during diarrhea, and their soft texture makes them easy to digest. Bananas can be eaten alone or paired with a protein like peanut butter for a balanced snack.

A homemade, low-fiber vegetable soup is an easy-to-digest, soothing snack option. By cooking vegetables until soft and removing any skins, the soup becomes a low-residue option that’s gentle on the intestines. It provides hydration and can be customized with gentle ingredients like peeled carrots, potatoes, and zucchini.

Silken tofu is a smooth, easy-to-digest plant-based protein that’s gentle on the digestive system. It’s soft and light in texture, making it easy to tolerate even during flare-ups. Silken tofu can be eaten on its own or blended into smoothies, puddings, or soups for added protein without excess fat or fiber.

Unsweetened applesauce is a mild, low-residue snack that provides hydration and gentle fiber. It’s easy to digest and is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the gut lining. Applesauce can be eaten alone or mixed with yogurt or a mild protein for a soothing, easy-to-digest snack.

Sugar-free gelatin is a light, low-residue snack that is hydrating and easy on the digestive system. It’s a good source of hydration and offers a refreshing, sweet treat without being too heavy or fiber-rich. The gelatin can help soothe the stomach and intestines and is easy to digest.

Low-fat cottage cheese is a mild, protein-rich snack that is easy on the digestive system. It’s soft in texture and provides calcium and probiotics, which support digestive health. Cottage cheese can be eaten alone or paired with low-residue fruits like applesauce or ripe melon for a balanced snack.

Mild, low-fat cheeses like mozzarella are easy to digest and provide a good source of protein and calcium. Cheese can be a satisfying snack when eaten in moderation. It’s important to choose low-fat versions to prevent digestive discomfort, and it pairs well with low-residue crackers or fruits for a balanced snack.

Homemade baked sweet potato chips can be a crunchy and satisfying Crohn’s-friendly snack when prepared with minimal seasoning. Sweet potatoes are lower in fiber compared to other root vegetables and can be digested more easily. Baked chips made at home ensure no excessive oils or additives, making them a healthier option for a snack.

Plain rice cakes are a low-residue snack that is light and easy to digest. Made from puffed rice, they provide a quick source of carbohydrates without fiber or irritants. They can be eaten as-is or topped with a mild spread such as peanut butter or almond butter for added protein, making them an ideal option during flare-ups.