Fiber-free diet for treating childhood Crohn's, probiotics and festive season

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Fiber-free diet key to treating childhood Crohn's disease, new study finds (3 minute read)

A recent study in Cell Host & Microbe explores the impact of a fiber-free diet in Exclusive Enteral Nutrition (EEN) on treating Crohn's disease (CD) in children. The study reveals that a fiber-deficient diet protects mice from developing colitis, with findings suggesting a crucial role of dietary fiber in CD progression. The research underscores the intricate interplay between diet, gut microbiota, and CD pathogenesis, emphasizing the significance of dietary strategies targeting specific microbial interactions for CD management. The study provides insights into how fiber influences the microbiome, intestinal disease, and potential novel dietary approaches for CD treatment.

Pass the yogurt: can probiotics help negate the toxicity of plastic in our stomachs? (4 minute read)

Microplastics, pervasive in our bodies, raise concerns. However, research suggests probiotics, found in fermented foods, might offer defense against plastic damage in our digestive systems. Studies indicate that microplastics can trigger inflammation in the gut, potentially contributing to inflammatory bowel diseases. Probiotics may mitigate some of the toxicity and inflammation caused by plastics in the gastrointestinal system. They can bind to and neutralize harmful chemicals leaching from plastics. Additionally, certain probiotics could reduce chemical additives in food packaging. While the science is preliminary, incorporating probiotics from fermented foods may provide a potential, accessible solution, although caution with supplements is advised.

Autoimmunity Has Reached Epidemic Levels. We Need Urgent Action to Address It (4 minute read)

Autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes and lupus, are challenging to diagnose and currently incurable. The impact is devastating, causing chronic fatigue, pain, drug dependency, depression, and social isolation. The lack of a national registry in the U.S. hinders accurate statistics, but estimates suggest a significant and increasing number of cases globally. Factors like changes in environment and lifestyle contribute to the rise. Autoimmune diseases are expensive to treat, with costs exceeding $168 billion in 2001. Urgent actions are needed, including an international effort for standardized definitions, national reporting systems, and a dedicated institute for autoimmune research to address the epidemic effectively. The author emphasizes the importance of immediate, coordinated efforts from various stakeholders to mitigate the profound human suffering and escalating healthcare expenditures associated with autoimmune diseases.

Vitamin D Linked to Clinical, Endoscopic Outcomes of Vedolizumab Treatment for IBD (3 minute read)

A retrospective study led by Dr. Bincy Abraham and colleagues at Houston Methodist suggests that pretreatment vitamin D levels may influence outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients treated with vedolizumab. In patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), higher vitamin D levels were associated with improved endoscopic scores after vedolizumab therapy. For those with Crohn's disease (CD), elevated vitamin D levels correlated with increased iron saturation, vitamin B12 levels, and vedolizumab concentrations. The study emphasizes the potential role of vitamin D in clinical and endoscopic outcomes and advocates for routine assessment and optimization in IBD patients undergoing vedolizumab treatment.

FDA clears IND for Biora Therapeutics’s ulcerative colitis drug (2 minute read)

Biora Therapeutics has received FDA clearance for its ulcerative colitis (UC) therapy, BT-600, marking the approval of its investigational new drug (IND) application. The Phase I trial, set to begin soon, will assess the JAK inhibitor at 5mg and 10mg doses using Pfizer’s Xeljanz in a liquid formulation with Biora’s NaviCap drug delivery device. NaviCap, an ingestible smart capsule, targets the large intestine for UC treatment. Biora is actively involved in clinical development for UC therapy BT-001, combining NaviCap with an adalimumab variant, and is exploring its BioJet platform for oral systemic drug delivery. UC affects five million individuals globally, and the company anticipates initiating the Phase I trial in the United States in the coming weeks.

How to enjoy the festive season if you have Crohn's disease or colitis (3 minute read)

The festive season poses challenges for those with Crohn's disease or colitis, as rich Christmas fare can negatively impact their digestive health. Crohn’s & Colitis UK urges awareness during Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness Week, emphasizing the importance of communicating the realities of living with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). The CEO highlights the lifelong nature of these conditions, marked by inflammation and ulcers in the gut. While symptoms fluctuate, no cure exists, and management involves treatments like medication and surgery. Nutritious eating and hydration are recommended, especially during Christmas. Tips include monitoring food choices, avoiding overexertion due to fatigue, ensuring an adequate supply of medication, and being realistic about limitations during the festive period.