Intermittent Fasting for Crohn's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how a diet that mimics fasting can reduce inflammation in people with mild to moderate Crohn's disease, a condition causing inflammation in the digestive tract. Participants will either follow this special diet, the Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD), for five days or maintain their regular eating habits. The researchers aim to determine if the fasting-like diet can improve inflammation markers and overall quality of life. Individuals with Crohn's who experience mild to moderate symptoms and are not on conflicting medications might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative dietary approaches to managing Crohn's disease symptoms.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not clearly state if you need to stop your current medications, but it excludes people taking medications that can't be safely combined with a calorie-restricted diet. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
What prior data suggests that this diet is safe for Crohn's disease patients?
Research has shown that diets similar to fasting, such as the Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD), might aid in managing conditions like Crohn's disease. In animal studies, these diets often improved bowel health without significant weight change. Early human research also suggests that these diets could help manage inflammatory bowel diseases, like Crohn's, by potentially reducing inflammation.
Regarding safety, the FDA generally considers the ingredients in these diets safe, which is reassuring. However, due to limited research on using diets for Crohn's disease, more studies are needed to fully understand their safety and effectiveness for people with Crohn's.
For those considering joining a clinical trial for this diet, current evidence suggests it is generally well-tolerated, but individual experiences can vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before changing your diet or treatment plan.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD) for Crohn's disease because it offers a non-drug approach that could complement or even reduce the need for medications like corticosteroids or biologics. Unlike standard treatments, which often focus on suppressing the immune system, IRCD uses dietary modifications to potentially reduce inflammation naturally. This method might provide a more holistic way to manage symptoms with fewer side effects, making it an appealing option for long-term disease management.
What evidence suggests that this diet is effective for Crohn's disease?
Research suggests that an Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD), which participants in this trial may follow, might help lower inflammation in people with Crohn's Disease. Studies on other inflammatory conditions have shown that fasting or eating fewer calories can be effective. Some findings indicate that diets similar to fasting, like IRCD, can reduce gut inflammation and aid in healing. Early evidence from these diets has shown promise in improving symptoms and quality of life. Although more research is needed, these initial results offer encouragement for those with Crohn's Disease.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sidhartha R Sinha, MD
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults aged 18-70 with mild to moderate Crohn's disease can join this trial. It's not for those allergic to nuts, severely weakened by illness or medical procedures, with severe heart issues, pregnant/nursing women, or anyone on a calorie-restricted diet. People who've had certain gastrointestinal surgeries or have serious conditions like diabetes at risk of hypoglycemia are also excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo three cycles of a 5-day Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD) administered once a month, followed by a regular diet for the rest of the month
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in quality of life, clinical response, and inflammatory markers after the treatment phase
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Intermittent Reduced Calorie Diet (IRCD)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stanford University
Lead Sponsor