What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are chronic non-specific inflammatory conditions. The two main variations of the disease are the Crohn’s Disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Standard IBD treatment typically employs a combination of anti-inflammatory and immune suppressive medications. Nevertheless, the pharmacological approach is not by itself curative.
IBD treatment with Anti–Inflammatory Diet (AID)
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet for IBD (IBD-AID), which is derived and augmented from the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), is a nutritional regimen that restricts the intake of carbohydrates such as refined sugar, gluten-based grains, and certain starches from the diet. These carbohydrates are thought to provide a substrate for pro-inflammatory bacteria. The second component of the diet involves the ingestion of pre-and probiotics to help restore an anti-inflammatory environment.
The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy and feasibility of the Anti–Inflammatory Diet (IBD-AID) intervention for the treatment of IBD.
We propose to evaluate changes in the microbiome in patients with IBD before and after adherence to the Anti-Inflammatory Diet (AID). We hypothesize that by following the IBD-AID, subjects will: A) demonstrate a change in the pattern of the microbiome as measured at baseline and follow-up by taking labs and stool samples, and having patients fill out a food frequency questionnaire; and B) find improvement in symptomology of IBD. Patients who meet eligibility will be invited to learn the diet.
We are seeking funding to study the interactions between nutrients consumed, health, and the microbiome. The immediate benefit will be a validated and complete set of dietary guidelines for persons with IBD. This will provide patients important tools to safely and productively obtain control over their symptoms.
Enroll at least 20-50 patients for a 16 week study
Facilitate dietary intervention and compliance using our Patient-Centered Counseling Model
Assess IBD-related inflammation from patient blood samples
Define gut microbiome composition and functions from patient stool samples
Our study will examine changes in diet and its effect on changes in the microbiome. This may help explain any corresponding changes in inflammation, symptoms and need for medications. We will identify diet components most strongly associated with improved health in order to optimize dietary strategies to manipulate the gut microbiome, improve therapy and health, and empower patients to control their IBD symptoms.
Read more about our research study here
Find out more about our IBD AID Recipes below:
- Salads and side dishes
- Sauces and condiments
- Snacks and appetizers