Content informed and developed with input from people living with IBD and an expert steering committee

When seeking to better understand and support a patient’s nutrition and dietary needs, some factors to consider are provided in the checklist below.

Checklist for Providers:

• Provide Culturally Conscious Education Materials:
  • Whenever possible, offer materials that are culturally tailored and available in the patient's primary language.
• Collaborate with Dietitians:
  • Work with dietitians familiar with different cultural dietary habits for a comprehensive approach to nutritional therapy.
• Understand Dietary Basics of Different Cultures:
  • Familiarize yourself with common foods and dietary practices of the patient's cultural background.
• Ask Open-ended Questions:
  • Instead of making assumptions, ask patients about their typical meals, food preferences, and any dietary restrictions (reminder: these things may be related to their cultural or religious beliefs).
• Recommend Alternatives:
  • When suggesting dietary changes, provide culturally appropriate alternatives. For example, if advising a reduction in red meat for a patient who consumes halal meat, recommend halal poultry or fish. Additionally, ask the patient for a suitable alternative.
• Recognize the Significance of Traditional Remedies:
  • Some cultures rely on traditional remedies that involve dietary components. If applicable, ask patients to describe the treatment so you can understand these remedies and their potential interactions with IBD medications.
• Awareness of Lactose Intolerance:
  • Certain ethnic groups, such as East Asians, Africans, and Native Americans, may have higher rates of lactose intolerance. Consider this when recommending dairy or providing dietary advice.
• Be Open-minded:
  • Understand that dietary habits are deeply rooted and can be tied to cultural identity. Changes may be difficult for some patients, so it’s essential to be understanding and offer support.

Related Patient Resources

What Should I Eat

Created by the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, this webpage offers general dietary recommendations and information for people living with IBD.

Visit site

Find a Nutrition Expert

Made available by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, this database was created for patients to search and find credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners by location, specialty, language, or insurance and payment options.

Visit site

View all resources