Inflammatory diets, ultra-processed foods linked to Crohn’s disease risk
A major new study has found that eating inflammatory and ultra-processed foods may significantly increase the risk of developing Crohn’s disease, a chronic form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In contrast, following a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fiber and minimally processed foods could help lower the risk.
The research, published in eClinicalMedicine, reviewed 72 prospective studies covering more than 2 million participants with an average follow-up of nearly 13 years. Researchers found 4,617 cases of ulcerative colitis and 1,902 cases of Crohn’s disease across the data.
Mediterranean diet shows protective effect
The study found no consistent link between food patterns and ulcerative colitis risk. However, for Crohn’s disease, the evidence was clearer:
- Mediterranean and plant-based diets reduced the risk.
- High fiber intake appeared to lower Crohn’s disease risk.
- Minimally processed foods were associated with better intestinal health.
- Ultra-processed foods increase Crohn’s disease risk
On the other hand, inflammatory diets and ultra-processed foods — including processed meats, sugary drinks, and low-vegetable diets — were linked to a higher risk of Crohn’s disease. Researchers noted that the effect was dose-dependent, meaning greater consumption carried higher risk.
Early life, pregnancy factors matter
Some studies suggested that childhood diet diversity and fish consumption may help reduce IBD risk. Similarly, maternal diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids and diverse foods during pregnancy were linked to a lower risk of Crohn’s disease in offspring.
Expert insights highlight clinical relevance
Professor Jean-Frederic Colombel, Director of the Susan and Leonard Feinstein IBD Clinical Center at Mount Sinai, explained:
“Inflammatory and ultra-processed diets were associated with a higher risk of Crohn’s disease, while Mediterranean, healthy diets, and high fiber intakes were associated with a lower risk.”
Experts stress that these findings highlight the need to integrate dietary counseling into IBD prevention and management strategies, making nutrition a central component of patient care.
Why it matters
While the exact cause of Crohn’s disease remains complex, this study underscores the role of diet in gut health. For people at risk or with early IBD symptoms, reducing ultra-processed food intake and adopting a Mediterranean-style diet may support prevention and long-term management.
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