Fibre IBD Study
Purpose of Fibre IBD study
Arm 1 (Diet Intervention):
We are exploring how different types of dietary fibre affect gut health in people with ulcerative colitis (UC).
We are also looking for non-UC participants to take part as controls.
Because some fibres may be harder to digest for individuals with UC, our goal is to understand whether personalized fibre and nutrition recommendations can:
- Improve the microbes in the gut
- Support better nutrition
- Help reduce inflammation
This research will help us design more effective, individualized dietary strategies for people living with UC.
Arm 2 (Artificial Intelligence Tool Development):
Many patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) describe worsening symptoms after they eat foods high in fibre. Researchers believe this may occur when the gut microbes are not breaking down some types of fibre properly, which can lead to discomfort.
The goal of this study is to learn more about what types of fibre a person can eat based on the profile of their gut microbes. To do this, an artificial intelligence (AI) tool is being developed using patient stool samples to determine which types of fibre may be helpful or harmful to include in their diet.
We are looking for individuals with Crohn’s disease (CD) or UC.
What is Involved
Arm 1 (Diet Intervention):
If you choose to participate, you will follow a personalized fibre-rich diet for 4 weeks, with guidance and support from a registered dietitian throughout the process.
As part of the diet, you will also be asked to avoid certain foods, including red meat, processed meats, processed dairy, and alcohol.
Throughout the 4-week study period, we will monitor how the diet affects your physical and mental well-being. This includes:
- Completing online questionnaires and 3-day food diary
- Providing stool samples at the beginning and end of the study
- A blood draw at the end of the study
Additionally, during your previously scheduled colonoscopy, we will collect a small number of additional samples, such as biopsies, blood, and a mucosal wash.
Arm 2 (Artificial Intelligence Tool Development):
If you choose to participate, you will be asked to do the following:
- Attend a short medical history call about any active symptoms, routine therapies, and family history
- Complete online questionnaires about your health, diet, and general well-being
- Collect one stool sample at home
Who can participate
Arm 1 (Diet Intervetion):
You may be able to participate in this study if you are:
- Between the ages of 7-69
- Undergoing a colonoscopy
- On stable treatment for at least one month [only for UC patients]
- Clinically in remission or with mild to moderate disease [only for UC patients]
You will not be eligible to participate in this study if you:
- Used antibiotics, pro-/pre-biotics supplements, or had an enteric infection in the last 30 days
- Currently taking systemic steroids
- History of extensive intestinal resection
- Presence of any non-IBD bowel conditions such as IBS, celiac, or microscopic colitis
- Recent history of cancer with treatment in the last 12 months
- Pregnant
Arm 2 (Artificial Intelligence Tool Development):
You may be able to participate in this study if you are:
- Between the ages of 7-69
- On stable treatment for at least one month
- Clinically in remission or with mild disease
You will not be eligible to participate in this study if you:
- Used antibiotics, pro-/pre-biotics supplements, or had an enteric infection in the last 30 days
- Currently taking systemic steroids
- History of abdominal surgery (excluding c-section)
- Presence of any non-IBD bowel conditions such as IBS, celiac, or microscopic colitis
- Presence of a systemtic disease requiring treatment such as cancer, heart disease, or kidney failure
- Documented enteric infection in the last 30 days
- Pregnant
Contact us
If you are interested in participating in our study or would like to learn more, please contact us using the following email:
- Email: fibre.coordinator@ubc.ca