Mediterranean Diet for IBD

byJennifer Mitchell Wilson B.S. Dietetics, Dietitian, Health Professional

A new study nearing completiontheorizes thatthe Mediterranean Diet might be beneficial for people withInflammatory Bowel Disease.
The Mediterranean Diet, rich in healthy fats and vegetables, has long been touted as beneficial in patients with heart disease.
This new study could indicate whether those anti-inflammatory properties also apply to IBD.

The Mediterranean Diet gets its name from the countries around the Mediterranean Sea who eat foods in this manner.
It is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, nuts, beans, legumes, low fat dairy, herbs and spices.
Meats, sweets and wine are allowed but only in small amounts.

作为一个营养师,我相信这是a lifestyle change that would benefit most people.
The healthy fats in this plan are essential to reduce inflammation.
An emphasis on fruits and vegetables nourishes the body with vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients that protect and heal cells in the body.
Whole grains, nuts and legumes add much needed fiber to the diet and cultured low fat dairy adds the benefit of probiotics.

Whether this study is conclusive or not this lifestyle might be worth looking into for anyone who wants to be healthier.
The Mediterranean Pyramidmakes it simple to understand and is an excellent place to start.

Meet Our Writer
Jennifer Mitchell Wilson

Jennifer Mitchell Wilson is a dietitian and mother of three girls. Two of her children have dealt with acid reflux disease, food allergies, migraines, and asthma. She has a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from Harding University and has done graduate work in public health and nutrition through Eastern Kentucky University. In addition to writing for HealthCentral, she does patient consults and serves on the Board of Directors for the Pediatric Adolescent Gastroesophageal Reflux Association.