A small clinical trial has been conducted which found a semi-vegetarian diet could be a safe and effective treatment to prevent relapse in those with Crohn’s disease. You can read about this research in full here.
The diet utilised was completely different to the commonly prescribed low residue diet, instead encouraging the consumption of quality unrefined fibre. The diet included:
Daily consumption of:
- Brown rice
- Eggs
- Milk
- Miso (fermented bean paste) soup
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Legumes
- Potatoes
- Pickled vegetables
- Plain yoghurt
Meat consumption was restricted to fish once per week, and other meat once every 2nd week.
The diet provided all the vitamins and minerals needed, including iron. Green tea consumption was encouraged.
This diet was designed to promote the consumption of prebiotic foods, therefore improving the balance of gut flora in the IBD patient.
Foods that were discouraged included:
- Sweets
- Bread
- Cheese
- Margarine
- Fast foods
- Carbonated beverages
- Juices
Healthy habits were also encouraged including:
- Not smoking
- Regular physical activity
- Moderate consumption or avoidance of alcohol
- Regular meals
- Not eating between meals
Although this study was conducted on those with diagnosed crohns disease, and more specifically those who have just undergone medical treatment, it could also be applicable to those with other forms of irritable bowel syndrome.
WARNING: Increasing fibre too quickly could exacerbate symptoms, in this study participants had their fibre gradually increased. This was done by beginning with white rice, then changing to a mixture of white and brown rice, and finally full consumption of brown rice. It is recommended to reader’s considering implementing dietary changes to increase their fibre content gradually.
Reference:
Chiba M, Abe T, Tsuda H, et al. Lifestyle related disease in Crohn’s disease: Relapse prevention by a semi-vegetarian diet. World J Gastroenterology. 2010 May 28; 16 (20): 2484-95.
