Trace minerals, including zinc, selenium, iron, copper, and manganese, are commonly considered in the management of Crohn's Disease because patients with inflammatory bowel diseases are at increased risk for deficiencies due to malabsorption, chronic diarrhea, and inflammation. Scientific studies indicate that specific trace mineral deficiencies—especially zinc—are more prevalent in Crohn’s Disease and can contribute to impaired immune function, delayed wound healing, and increased oxidative stress. Correction of deficiencies is therefore a validated aspect of supportive care. For example, zinc supplementation has been shown to improve gut barrier function and reduce the frequency of infections in Crohn’s patients with low zinc levels. Similarly, selenium and iron supplementation are recommended when blood tests confirm deficiencies, as these minerals are important for antioxidant defenses and preventing anemia, respectively.

However, there is limited evidence that trace mineral supplementation beyond correcting a documented deficiency provides disease-modifying benefits such as reducing flare frequency or inducing remission. Most clinical guidelines recommend targeted supplementation based on laboratory confirmation rather than routine high-dose supplementation. In summary, while trace minerals play a supportive role in managing Crohn's Disease due to the risk of deficiency, there is only modest scientific evidence (evidence rating: 2/5) for their use outside of individualized deficiency correction.