[Assessment of dietary habits in adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease]

The incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is increasing worldwide, with dietary factors playing a role in both their development and clinical course. The protective effect of the Mediterranean diet has been confirmed by several clinical studies; however, limited data are available on patients' actual dietary habits - particularly during remission.

The aim of our study was to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the presence of Western-type dietary patterns among adolescent IBD patients in remission.

In this cross-sectional study, 24 IBD patients receiving biologic therapy (mean age: 15.71 ± 2.31 years) were included. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED questionnaire, while the consumption of Western dietary components was evaluated using a specific 23-item food frequency questionnaire.

Based on KIDMED scores, all participants showed low (n = 16) or moderate (n = 8) adherence, with no cases of high adherence (mean: 2.75 ± 1.78). According to the food frequency questionnaire, all patients regularly consumed foods characteristic of a Western dietary pattern, most commonly chocolate, high-fat processed meats, bakery products, and sugar-sweetened breakfast cereals. Participants consumed an average of 7.75 out of 23 listed food groups at least 1-3 times weekly. No significant associations were found between dietary habits and diagnosis (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) or sex; however, approximately one-third of the participants demonstrated an unfavorable dietary pattern. Furthermore, no significant correlation was identified between the results of the two questionnaires.

Our findings regarding Western dietary patterns are consistent with results from studies conducted in the healthy Hungarian population, which indicate low intake of vegetables, fruits, and dietary fiber. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet in our cohort appears less favorable compared to international data. The study highlights that adherence to dietary recommendations may decline during remission.

An unfavorable dietary pattern was observed among IBD patients, supporting the need for regular and targeted dietary interventions. Emphasizing a sustainable, balanced diet - particularly during remission - is essential for effective disease management. Orv Hetil. 2026; 167(35): 1394-1401.