Posted 1/27/2021 8:01 PM (GMT 0)
The range of responses here just shows how heterogenous this disease is so no point in arguing diet vs. meds. A few thoughts:
The reason why many of us turn to alternative treatments (diets, supplements etc) is that remission rates for UC meds are pretty low (30% mesalamine; 30-40% biologics; rectals likely improve this). Combination treatment seems to be very helpful and is supported (adding curcumin or probiotics enhanced remission rates in some studies; rectal meds). I feel that we have been neglected as a field overall with few really great options, especially for mild and moderate disease. In the last 30 years, there are no new meds aside from mesalamine formulations for LT remission in mild-moderate UC, and many are sensitive to mesalamine formulations. I think we can do better as a field, and unfortunately COVID has stopped progress on new drugs even more.
2) Diet is unlikely to help once the flare gets worse or in the moderate to severe range. If you try diet, it's best to try when you are not flaring or when flare is mild. For me, it enhances LT remission along with meds.
Like many mentioned, meds, stress reduction, diet, sleep and exercise are key factors for overall LT remission.