A Western dietary pattern — characterized by a high intake of refined grains, animal protein (particularly red or processed meat), and animal fat (from meat or dairy), along with a low intake of fruit and vegetables — may increase the risk of developing IBD.[1] Higher fruit, vegetable, and fiber consumption are associated with a reduced risk of developing IBD.[2]
Despite these findings, exclusion diets — like those that remove milk, carrageenan, or animal products — have little to no effect on IBD disease activity or remission rates.[3] A Low-FODMAP diet improves some GI symptoms without changing markers of disease activity.[4]
People with IBD tend to consume less fiber than healthy people, and often fail to eat enough calories (which is why they may need enteral nutrition support).[5][6] They also have lower levels of vitamins A and K in their blood, and over time, low vitamin A status is associated with greater disease activity.[7]