Preventing inflammatory bowel disease

While its exact cause is unknown, most researchers believe that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves a combination of a genetic susceptibility that “loads the gun” and a Western-style diet that “pulls the trigger.”  

IBD is a chronic inflammation of all or parts of the digestive tract. It primarily includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. There is no cure. In the acute phase, loose and bloody stools, severe abdominal pain and weight loss are typical. Putting the disease into remission traditionally involves strong anti-inflammatory, immune-suppressing drugs and even bowel resection. And your diet may hold the key.  

Why does it occur?

Altered intestinal bacteria can cause IBD in genetically susceptible people. What you feed yourself determines the type and diversity of these bugs. A diet that’s rich in animal protein and lacking in dietary fibre promotes an imbalance that results in inappropriate activation of your immune system and inflammation directly inside your intestines.

A high-fibre, plant-based diet can help to treat IBD and possibly even prevent it. A two-year study from Japan found advice to follow a semi-vegetarian diet was highly effective in preventing relapses in people with Crohn’s disease.  

Foods to eat