SHORT-TERM NUTRITIONAL THERAPY IS SUCCESSFUL IN ADULTS WITH CROHN'S DISEASE

A small study done in New Zealand showed that adults with active Crohn's disease in the small intestine could use nutritional therapy in place of steroids to start treatment (C Wall and others, Inflammatory Intestinal Dis 2018, pages 219-227).

In the study, thirty-two (32) older teens and adults with active Crohn's disease in the small intestine drank a single liquid formula and water for 2 weeks. After the first 2 weeks, the participant's symptoms improved and their tests showed improvement. Most of the participants continued the diet for another 6 weeks.

Of the 21 who continued the formula and water therapy, 14 improved further, although some lost weight. The other 11 participants stayed on the formula, but added a small meal into their diet. Of the 11 mixed dieters, 9 continued to feel well, but laboratory tests did not show a complete response.

Bottom Line:

• Crohn's disease in the small intestine can improve when using a liquid formula in the beginning. The response to this restricted diet seems to be as effective as steroids.
• Those with newer disease seem to do better than those who have had Crohn's for a long time
• Those who only have Crohn's in the large intestine (colon) don't seem to do as well, according to prior studies.
• The diet is difficult, and can result in weight loss, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Adding food to the diet makes it easier to maintain, but slows the disease improvement.