A recent study reveals that ultra-processed foods may lead to severe flare-ups of bowel diseases.

A poor diet has long been linked to the development of Crohn's disease; however, researchers have recently identified particular high-risk food categories that can trigger intense flare-ups.

The research, which was unveiled during the United European Gastroenterology conference (UEG) in Vienna, Austria this week, revealed that consuming highly processed foods like bread, pastries, starches, oils, and spreads can triple the likelihood of the condition recurring.

Approximately 500,000 people in Britain endure the agony of Crohn’s disease, characterized by excruciating pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and severe discomfort. weight loss .

The illness may lead to narrowing of the intestines, which makes it challenging for food to move through.

Approximately one-third of individuals affected by this condition, characterized by inflammation of the intestinal lining, will necessitate surgical intervention.

However, this recent study suggests that diet may lead to significant symptom recurrence, even when controlled with medication.

The research tracked more than 100 individuals with Crohn's disease throughout one year and documented instances where they experienced a relapse severe enough to necessitate changes in their medication, hospitalization, or surgical intervention.

Over twice as many participants who consumed large amounts of ultra-processed foods experienced a relapse.

The researchers involved in the study pointed out that following a 'Western diet' can lead to recurring symptoms. Additionally, they mentioned that more investigation should be conducted into the connection with emulsifiers, commonly present in ultra-processed foods, as these might actually be responsible for the issue at hand.

A study published last year in the Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology Journal revealed that consuming a lot of ultra-processed foods can raise your risk of developing Crohn’s disease by 70 percent.

The most recent study is the first to demonstrate effects following treatment. Experts are now urging this research to guide therapy for individuals suffering from Crohn's disease.

"In addition to addressing active inflammatory bowel disease, our aim is to sustain remission over the long term," explains Dr. Chen Sarbagili Shabat, a clinical dietitian at Tel Aviv Medical Center in Israel.

It is crucial to understand that environmental factors are linked to the disease, as this allows us to address active cases through dietary means. Similarly, during periods of remission from Crohn’s disease, diet can be effectively used for management.

Read more