⭐Criteria for starring system:
- Incorporates appropriate microbiome strategies
- Incorporates appropriate gut healing strategies
- Inflammation reduction is a priority
- Long-term symptom reduction
- Easily implemented
- Reduces disordered eating patterns
⭐Caveat for starring system: This system is our opinion based on the available research at this time. We reserve the right to modify our recommendations as new literature is published and we learn more about the complexities of IBD. Review our recommendations with an appropriate amount of discretion and understand that oftentimes there is not a one size fits all approach for every situation.
Dairy-Free
Overview: Dairy products encompass a wide range of products including butter and yogurts. Lactase deficiency and lactose intolerance is common in IBD.
- We know that it is imperative to reduce and eventually eliminate dairy fat and processed dairy rich in maltodextrins and emulsifiers.
- Dietary Guidance from the International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
- Some evidence suggests fermented dairy can play an important role in microbiome diversity and concomitant immune tone on the host as well as increasing abundance of a beneficial bacteria known to be depleted in UC, Fusicatenibacter saccharivorans (source), although in practice we see that many who reduce or eliminate even fermented dairy see better results.
⭐Meets criteria for:
- Eliminating dairy products
- Easily implemented
⭐Does not meet criteria for:
- Incorporates appropriate microbiome strategies
- Incorporates appropriate gut healing strategies
- Long-term symptom reduction
- Inflammation reduction is a priority
- Reduces disordered eating patterns