Is the Mediterranean Diet in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Ready for Prime Time?
![Role of the Mediterranean diet in the prevention and management of IBD. IBD, inflammatory bowel disease; CD, Crohn’s disease; UC, ulcerative colitis; SCFA, short chain fatty acids](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6682ad647d71ff9a4ed5a566/6682ad647d71ff9a4ed5b14d_Figure%201_MED_20231223.jpg)
Abstract
Background
The rising incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), specifically in the developing world, suggests an important environmental effect. Amongst environmental influences, dietary factors, particularly the adoption of a westernized diet, have been specifically noticed. In contrast, the Mediterranean diet (MED), characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and moderate consumption of animal and ultra processed foods, has shown potential positive effects in IBD.
Methods
Here we conducted a narrative review focusing on the evidence regarding the role of MED in IBD prevention and management.
Results
Epidemiological studies suggest inverse association of MED with CD development. Furthermore, adherence to MED has been associated with clinical improvement in active CD and maintenance of lower levels of inflammatory markers in UC, along with improved quality of life and lower mortality rates in IBD patients. Mechanistically, MED promotes a diverse and beneficial gut microbiota, possesses anti-inflammatory properties through polyphenols and dietary fats, and may modulate oxidative stress. In clinical practice, MED may be adapted to diverse disease phenotypes and cultural preferences, and is a sustainable, easy to maintain dietary approach.
Conclusion
Current evidence may support the integration of MED into clinical practice in IBD care. In future research, the efficacy of MED in specific IBD phenotypes should be assessed.
Lihi Godny, Iris Dotan, Is the Mediterranean Diet in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Ready for Prime Time?, Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology, 2023;, gwad041, https://doi.org/10.1093/jcag/gwad041
![Somebody in the kitch - view from the back while preparing healthy foods.](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6682ad647d71ff9a4ed5a517/6682ad647d71ff9a4ed5a5bb_foodiesfeed.com_vintage-kitchen-at.2e16d0ba.fill-640x425.webp)
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