National Nutrition Month – Supporting Your Microbiome While Receiving Biologic Therapies

March is National Nutrition Month, an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to highlight the significance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating habits.

For individuals living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, nutrition plays a vital role in managing symptoms and supporting overall gut health.

If you are receiving biologic therapies for IBD, maintaining a balanced diet that nurtures your gut microbiome can help enhance treatment effectiveness and improve your quality of life.

The Connection Between Biologic Therapies and Your Microbiome

Biologic therapies have revolutionized the treatment of IBD by targeting specific immune system components to reduce inflammation.

These medications, including TNF, integrin, and IL-12/23 inhibitors, help control flare-ups and maintain remission. However, because they modulate the immune response, biologics can influence the balance of your gut microbiome, the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that live in your digestive tract.

A healthy microbiome is critical in digestion, immune function, and inflammation control. However, IBD itself can sometimes alter the composition of gut bacteria, leading to dysbiosis (an imbalance in gut microbiota).

This imbalance can contribute to bloating, diarrhea, and reduced nutrient absorption. Studies discovered that biologic therapy could help reduce the chances of dysbiosis.

Supporting your microbiome through nutrition optimizes treatment outcomes and overall gut health.

Nutrition Tips for Supporting Your Microbiome While on Biologic Therapy

A gut-friendly diet can complement biologic therapy by reducing inflammation, promoting beneficial bacteria, and supporting overall digestive health.

Here are some practical dietary and lifestyle changes to consider:

1. Prioritize Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Chronic inflammation is at the core of IBD, so incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help support gut healing and symptom management. The following is but a small list of anti-inflammatory foods to consider adding to your diet:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts) help reduce intestinal inflammation.
• Turmeric (curcumin) has anti-inflammatory properties and may support gut health.

• Ginger can help ease nausea and digestive discomfort.
• Green leafy vegetables (like spinach and kale) provide essential vitamins and antioxidants.

2. Choose Prebiotic and Probiotic Foods

Prebiotics and probiotics support a healthy microbiome by promoting beneficial gut bacteria.

Probiotic-rich foods (such as yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi) introduce healthy bacteria into your gut.

Prebiotic foods (including bananas, onions, garlic, asparagus, and oats) fuel beneficial gut bacteria.

If you are sensitive to certain fermented foods, consider discussing a probiotic supplement with your healthcare provider.

3. Maintain a Well-Balanced Diet

IBD can affect your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Approved biologic therapies have shown they can improve nutrient absorption, making following a balanced diet a crucial component of IBD management. It’s recommended that your diet includes:

• Lean proteins (such as fish, poultry, eggs, and tofu) to support muscle maintenance and repair.
• Complex carbohydrates (such as brown rice, quinoa, peas, beans, sweet potatoes, and whole grains) for sustained energy.
• Healthy fats (like avocados, olive oil, and nuts) to support overall inflammation control.

4. Be Mindful of Trigger Foods

Every IBD patient is different, so identifying and avoiding your personal trigger foods can help reduce symptom flare-ups. Common trigger foods include:

• High-fiber raw vegetables and fruits (May cause obstructive symptoms during active flare-ups)
• Dairy products (if lactose intolerant)
• Processed foods high in refined sugar and unhealthy fats
• Carbonated beverages, coffee, and alcohol
• Spicy foods

5. Stay Hydrated and Manage Stress

• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially if you experience diarrhea.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they can irritate the digestive tract.
• Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing, as stress can impact your microbiome and IBD symptoms.

6. Partner with Your Healthcare Team

Nutrition is a powerful tool for managing IBD, but it’s essential to tailor your diet to your needs.

• Work with your gastroenterologist, dietitian, or nutritionist to create a nutrition plan that complements your biologic therapy.
• Keeping a food journal can help identify patterns and triggers affecting your symptoms.
• If you have questions about adjusting your diet while on biologic therapy, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your healthcare team.
• Discuss the benefits of biologic therapy to improve your IBD management.

Your health journey is unique and small, but mindful changes in your diet can make a big difference in how you feel.

This National Nutrition Month, take the opportunity to focus on your gut health by making informed, nourishing food choices that support your microbiome while receiving biologic therapy.