From the Research
Alcohol can trigger inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) symptoms and exacerbate the condition, as evidenced by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Findings
- The study found that alcohol alters the gut microbiome, disrupts intestinal barrier, and increases intestinal permeability, directly and indirectly promoting immune activation 1.
- Alcohol use has been associated with a higher risk of relapse in IBD patients, and patients with IBD report worse gastrointestinal symptoms following alcohol consumption 2.
- The evidence suggests that alcohol use in patients with IBD trends toward harmful effects, and more research is needed to provide confident recommendations 2.
Recommendations
- To minimize the risk of triggering IBD symptoms, patients with IBD should limit their alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether 1.
- Patients with existing digestive conditions like IBD are particularly susceptible to the negative effects of alcohol on the gut, and should be cautious when consuming alcohol 3.
- If patients with IBD do choose to drink, they should do so in moderation, avoid drinking on an empty stomach, stay hydrated, and choose lower-alcohol beverages 2.
Important Considerations
- The use of alcohol can interfere with the metabolism of several medications used to treat IBD, leading to increased adverse events or loss of efficacy 1.
- Patients with IBD should discuss their alcohol use with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment and management of their condition 2.