New findings indicate that the nutrients found in the Mediterranean diet could potentially alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Photo credit: van Solis/Stocksy.
Experts are exploring the potential impact of dietary choices and nutrients on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A recent narrative review has identified key nutrients in the Mediterranean diet that may offer specific advantages for individuals with IBD. The review emphasizes the necessity for further research into the precise mechanisms underlying the relationship between nutrients, IBD, and gut microorganisms.
IBD encompasses a group of persistent conditions affecting the intestines, with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis being the primary types. The Mediterranean diet is recognized as a dietary pattern that could benefit those with IBD. A recent narrative review published in the journal Nutrients delved into the nutrients unique to the Mediterranean diet and their potential effects on IBD. Noteworthy nutrients highlighted in the review include plant-based protein, omega-3 polyunsaturated fats, and resveratrol. A deeper understanding in this area could enhance strategies for supporting individuals with IBD.
The authors of the review point out that the gut microbiome plays a role in IBD development, suggesting that dietary modifications could positively influence the gut microbiome in individuals with IBD. The Mediterranean diet, characterized by high fiber content, abundant fruits and vegetables, and limited intake of processed foods, is likely beneficial for managing and preventing IBD, often recommended in IBD cases. However, the exact mechanisms through which the Mediterranean diet influences the gut microbiome in individuals with IBD remain somewhat unclear.
Using PubMed, the authors identified recent research from 2019 to 2024, focusing on keywords like preclinical, Mediterranean diet, and inflammatory bowel disease to gather relevant data. They examined various nutrients in their investigation, beginning with carbohydrates. For instance, fructo-oligosaccharides were found to potentially enhance intestinal permeability in individuals with Crohn’s disease and increase levels of beneficial gut microorganisms.
Additionally, components such as chitosan, pectic polysaccharides, and fruits like cranberries were noted to provide benefits. However, some dietary fibers may have adverse effects in individuals with active IBD. Plant-based proteins were found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, while nuts, seeds, and certain dairy products like kefir from the Mediterranean diet could help reduce proinflammatory bacteria and enhance bacterial diversity.
Kefir, rich in Lactobacillus, may assist in modulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. The authors also suggest that the amino acid tryptophan could be beneficial, pending further research on its effects. The Mediterranean diet, abundant in unsaturated fats such as olive oil, which contains polyphenols, may aid in managing inflammatory disorders. Nonetheless, additional research on the benefits of olive oil and its variant compositions is warranted.
Moreover, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish and seeds were highlighted for their anti-inflammatory properties. Further research is necessary
Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), although the data is inconclusive. One study found a potential link between the consumption of seafood and nuts and the development of IBD, suggesting the need for further investigation into the relationship between fats and IBD.
Dietitian Natasha Haskey, PhD, RD, not involved in the study, praised a comprehensive review on the benefits of the Mediterranean diet for IBD. She highlighted the diet’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and gut health benefits which could help maintain remission and reduce disease flares. Key nutrients like polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber may complement existing treatments and address common nutritional deficiencies in IBD.
The review also explores the potential benefits of red wine, a component of the Mediterranean diet, in protecting against IBD development. Certain compounds in red wine, such as resveratrol and tannins, could help reduce intestinal inflammation and promote beneficial microorganisms. However, excessive alcohol intake may worsen IBD symptoms. Other Mediterranean diet components like quercetin, astaxanthin, and lycopene are also considered beneficial for IBD management.
The authors emphasize that more research is needed to fully understand the impact of less-known Mediterranean diet nutrients on IBD, including curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, and vitamin D. They stress the importance of individualized dietary strategies for people with IBD due to the complex interactions of various dietary compounds in the Mediterranean diet.
While the review sheds light on the potential benefits of the Mediterranean diet for IBD, it has limitations. It primarily draws on preclinical evidence and may not capture all relevant data due to restrictions on language and database selection. Further research is necessary to validate the findings presented in the review.
A researcher at the UCLA Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease, who was not involved in the reviewed study, highlighted that much of the information presented is derived from preclinical data due to the scarcity of clinical studies available.
“While each of the purportedly beneficial nutrients and food types discussed are integral components of the Mediterranean diet, they are not exclusive to this diet,” he remarked. “This prompts the question of whether alternative dietary patterns that incorporate these individual components could also yield benefits for individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).”
Furthermore, the researcher, Limketkai, emphasized, “As the review serves to synthesize existing data rather than present new research findings, it does not significantly contribute to our current understanding of the relationship between diet and IBD. Nevertheless, the evidence provided underscores the advantages of adhering to the Mediterranean diet and delves into the specific components responsible for conferring its anti-inflammatory properties.”
The authors of the review underscored the necessity for further investigation into the interactions between the microbiomes of the small and large intestines and various nutrients. This future research could encompass studies involving both animals and humans, and may also explore the impact of physical activity on these effects, given its significance in the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Dr. Rudolph Bedford, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in the review, emphasized the importance of future research delving into how the components of the Mediterranean diet interact with the gut microbiome.
“The gut microbiome comprises over 10 trillion bacteria and is arguably one of the largest immunologic organs in the body. Therefore, understanding how these bacteria interact with different dietary components to prevent conditions like low-grade inflammation within the gut is crucial. How does the diversity of these bacteria, in conjunction with various dietary elements, contribute to either the prevention or modification of the disease process itself?” Dr. Bedford questioned.
The insights provided by experts underscore the need for continued research into the relationship between diet, gut microbiome, and inflammatory bowel diseases like IBD. The role of the Mediterranean diet, in particular, appears promising in terms of its potential anti-inflammatory effects, though further investigations are warranted to fully comprehend the underlying mechanisms and potential benefits for individuals with IBD.
