Dietary Interventions for Short Bowel Syndrome in Adults

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a rare but complex medical condition that requires expertise in management. The etiology in adults is commonly surgical resection for Crohn's disease or mesenteric ischemia and is classified based on the anatomy of the remaining bowel. An accurate assessment of the anatomy and nutritional and hydration status is necessary. Dietary therapy is essential to induce adaptation in SBS, provide adequate nutritional needs, and manage symptoms including stool burden. As general SBS guidelines on nutritional support and dietary interventions exist, SBS is unique to the individual and nutrition must also be personalized to the individual to improve quality of life. This review will highlight the principles of adaptation, dietary interventions in SBS, as well as future directions for this field.