In a new study, researchers found eating a plant-based diet may be an effective treatment for Crohn’s disease, a common type of inflammatory bowel disease.
The research was conducted by a group of scientist in the U.S.
Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation of the digestive tract and lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition.
In the study, the team followed a man in his late 20s who had been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease.
The patient experienced fatigue, bloating, episodic severe abdominal pain, nausea, and occasional ulcers for several years.
His condition did not reach remission after more than a year of intravenous treatment.
The team found that during his second year of treatment, the patient stopped eating all animal products and processed foods for a 40-day religious observation.
He experienced a total absence of symptoms. Because of this, the patient decided to maintain the new plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
He then experienced a complete remission of Crohn’s disease.
Medical tests showed complete healing, and the patient was able to stop using drugs. In addition, he reports no relapses since.
The team says the finding may offer a new treatment method for people suffering from Crohn’s disease.
A plant-based diet may help patients achieve long-term remission and avoid surgery.
The researchers note that plant-based diets are high in fiber, which promotes overall gut health.
Fiber also feeds the healthy bacteria in the gut and may help protect against Crohn’s disease and other digestive problems.
The team also says that plant-based diets can offer good ‘side effects’, including a reduced risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
One author of the study is Hana Kahleova, MD, Ph.D., director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.
The study is published in the journal Nutrients.
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