Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis—often means rethinking what you eat. Snacks can fill nutritional gaps and keep you energized between meals. Yet choosing the right bite can feel overwhelming, especially during a flare. In this guide, we’ll share easy IBD-friendly snack ideas for flare days, low-residue snacks for IBD patients, and gut-friendly snacks for Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. We’ll also highlight the best snacks for people with inflammatory bowel disease and sprinkle in expert tips from Dr. Bharat Pothuri.
Dr. Pothuri says, “Smart snacking can support nutrient intake and help you stay hydrated during a flare.” Let’s dive in.
When your gut is inflamed, it absorbs fewer nutrients and becomes sensitive to fiber. Snacks that sit gently in your digestive tract—known as low-residue snacks for IBD patients—can ease discomfort.
A low-residue diet limits foods that leave a lot of undigested material in the colon. It can:
According to the Mayo Clinic’s guide to a low-residue diet, limiting whole grains, nuts, seeds, and raw fruits or vegetables can help calm your gut.
When a flare hits, you want snacks that are soft, bland, and easy to digest. Here are some of the best snacks for people with inflammatory bowel disease:
Dr. Bharat Pothuri notes, “On severe flare days, focus on hydration and simple carbs. A small cup of broth followed by applesauce can settle the gut.”
When you feel a bit better, you can expand your snack list. Try these gut-friendly snacks for Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis:
Lifestyle tip: Keep snacks in your purse or desk at work. In Houston’s heat, store them in a cooler pack—this prevents spoilage and helps you stay on track.
Below is a quick guide to compare snacks based on ease of digestion, nutrient profile, and portability.
| Snack Type | Ease of Digestion | Key Nutrients | Portability |
| Applesauce | High | Vitamin C, simple carbs | High |
| Plain Greek Yogurt | Medium-High | Protein, calcium | Medium |
| Saltine Crackers | High | Simple carbs, sodium | High |
| Mashed Banana | High | Potassium, simple sugars | High |
| Bone Broth | Very High | Collagen, electrolytes | Low (liquid) |
| Pureed Carrot Soup | Very High | Vitamin A, antioxidants | Low (liquid) |
| Protein Shake (low-lactose) | Medium | Protein, vitamins | Medium |
| Rice Cakes with Nut Butter | Medium | Healthy fats, carbs | High |
| Pudding Cups (lactose-free) | High | Calcium, calories | Medium |
| Mashed Avocado on White Toast | Medium | Healthy fats, fiber | Medium |
If you live in Houston, you have access to many local markets. Look for:
Dr. Pothuri adds, “Reading labels is key. Avoid added seeds, dried fruit pieces, or sugars that can feed gut bacteria too quickly.”
…seek medical advice. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and the NIH Digestive Diseases program offer reliable information.
Finding the best snacks for people with inflammatory bowel disease takes planning, label reading, and trial and error. With low-residue snacks for IBD patients and easy IBD-friendly snack ideas for flare days, you can stay nourished and comfortable—even during a tough spell. Remember Dr. Bharat Pothuri’s advice: “Snack smart, snack small, and keep track of what works for you.”
Now stocking your pantry and fridge with these gut-friendly snacks should feel less daunting. From Houston’s local marts to online shops, you’ve got options that balance taste, nutrition, and ease.
By choosing the right snacks—whether homemade or from Houston markets—you’ll find relief, nutrition, and a little snack-time joy on both good days and flare days.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
A low-residue snack contains minimal fiber and undigested material. It reduces stool volume and eases digestion.
Generally no. Nuts and seeds are high-fiber and can irritate the gut. Try smooth nut butter instead.
Aim for small portions every 2–3 hours. This keeps your energy up and avoids overloading your system.
Yes, if they’re made from peeled fruits, lactose-free yogurt, and no seeds. Blend thoroughly.
Slowly reintroduce soluble fibers like oats and peeled fruits. Watch for symptoms.
Read labels. Avoid added seeds, whole grains, and sugar alcohols. Look for “low-residue” or “easy to digest.”
Not always. Try lactose-free or low-lactose dairy. Plain Greek yogurt often works well.
Keep a small jar of applesauce cups or rice cakes with nut butter in your bag for when you’re stuck in traffic.
Yes. They replace minerals lost during diarrhea. Choose low-sugar options.
If snacking causes pain, persistent diarrhea, or bleeding, contact your gastroenterologist right away.
