Assessment of nutritional status and eating behaviours in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease: a pilot study

Background and aims: Ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) are inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) with varying clinical presentations. Current literature lacks specific dietary recommendations, though diets may serve as potential tools. Methods: This study, conducted at IRCCS Ca' Granda Foundation Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico of Milan from April 2020 to July 2022, aimed to evaluate the diets of UC and CD patients, focusing on preferred and avoided foods. Results: Results showed 67.4% and 80.9% of participants in remission by Mayo and HBI scores, respectively, with normal nutritional status and higher weight in CD versus UC patients and controls. Lactose-free diets were most common (21.3% UC, 17.4% CD, 11.6% controls), followed by gluten-free diets (23.4% UC, 13.4% CD, 9.3% controls). Low-FODMAPS diet adoption was minimal. Fibre avoidance was notable in CD (52%) and UC (45%) versus controls (5%). Pasta and bread consumption were high across groups. No dietary associations with disease activity or intergroup differences were found. Conclusions: The study population exhibited mild to moderate disease activity, normal nutritional status and prevalent dietary restrictions affecting nutrient intake and quality of life. Lactose-free diets were frequently employed, while gluten-free and low-FODMAPS diets were less common. Encouraging supervised fibre intake is recommended to prevent microbiota alterations negatively impacting intestinal health and homeostasis in IBD patients.