Understanding Patient's Barriers and Perceived Benefits Through Adherence to Nutritional Interventions in IBD: a Preliminary Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how different diets affect people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The study aims to understand what makes it easier or harder for individuals to follow eating plans like intermittent fasting, the Mediterranean diet, and the Low FODMAP diet. By learning about the benefits and challenges of these diets, the study hopes to improve the quality of life for those living with IBD. Participants will be randomly assigned to follow one of three dietary plans: a 14:10 intermittent fasting schedule where meals are eaten within a 10-hour window daily, a Mediterranean diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods, or a Low FODMAP diet that restricts certain carbohydrates to manage gut symptoms. Each participant will use a smartphone app to help track their dietary adherence and will receive guidance from a registered dietitian. Throughout the study, participants will complete questionnaires and interviews to identify barriers to sticking with the diets and to assess perceived benefits. Researchers will monitor adherence using the app and surveys over the course of the study. The main outcome is to identify the top three barriers patients face in accessing and following these diets. The study will also explore how sociodemographic factors influence honest reporting and adherence. Participation involves ongoing assessments from enrollment until five weeks later, with safety and quality of life being monitored.

Assessing Interventions of Diet in IBD