At Brigham and Women's Hospital we believe that diet is a crucial component of comprehensive management of IBD and ensure that all new patients are reviewed in our integrated nutrition program.
Recent research has demonstrated that diet plays an important role in the development and management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. For example, the Western diet has been associated with the development of IBD, while the Mediterranean diet appears to reduce inflammation. In addition to its pro- and anti-inflammatory properties, diet also alters the gut bacteria (microbiome) that likewise play an important role in influencing the course of IBD.
Although there are several generally recommended IBD diets, each of us has a unique genetic and microbiome makeup that influence our response to diet. At BWH we therefore strive to tailor dietary recommendations beyond standard diets, based on aspects of an individual’s IBD type and status, existing management plan, expectations, and nutritional health. This process involves working closely with your care team to optimally integrate your gastrointestinal and nutritional care and develop a customized diet that works in synergy with medical and/or surgical therapy. The goal of each personalized diet is to reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and correct and further prevent nutritional deficiencies.
We strive to exceed expectations in the following ways:
- All new patients are seen as part of a comprehensive experience at our center
- Holistic integration of medical and nutritional care
- Personalized dietary guidance using evidence-based recommendations
- Incorporation of state-of-the art behavior modification techniques to ensure that the principles of nutritional therapy are adapted into patients’ lifestyles
- Opportunities to participate in nutrition-based clinical trials
Important information regarding Nutrition Services and insurance coverage can be found here
