A recent study published in The Lancet suggests that adopting a healthy plant-based diet may reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and improve outcomes for those already diagnosed. The research analyzed data from the UK Biobank and the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), tracking over 500,000 participants across eight European countries.

Findings showed that individuals in the highest quintile of healthy plant-based diet index (PDI) had a 25-29% lower risk of developing IBD compared to those in the lowest quintile. Conversely, those consuming diets rich in refined grains, sugary foods, and processed plant products (unhealthy PDI) faced a 48-54% higher risk.

Among IBD patients, those with a higher healthy PDI had half the risk of requiring surgery, while those with an unhealthy PDI had more than double the surgical risk.

“Our findings highlight the importance of choosing nutrient-rich plant foods and avoiding processed options to promote gut health,” said lead researcher Dr. Liji Thomas, MD.

The study underscores the need for dietary guidance emphasizing healthy plant-based choices for IBD prevention and management.

For further details, refer to the study: Chen, J., et al. (2025). Composition of Plant-Based Diets and the Incidence and Prognosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. The Lancet. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lanepe.2025.101264