People with chronic gastrointestinal disease may develop poor nutritional health. Dietary changes may be required at times of active disease. These recommendations may be used as a guide.
People with chronic gastrointestinal disease may develop poor nutritional health due to:
A healthy, balanced eating pattern is recommended for all people, and is especially important for normal growth and development in children.
Deficiencies of iron, folate and vitamin B12 can result in anaemia (low red blood count), vitamin D deficiency can lead to thinning of the bones, and vitamin K deficiency can lead to bruising. Dehydration and losses of important nutrients such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and zinc can have serious consequences.
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