A problem with the Western diet that most of us eat is that it is low in fiber. A diet low in fiber and large amounts of ultraprocessed foods is suspected to play a role in the increasing incidence of intestinal bowel diseases (IBD) in the US and Canada.
A recent study, which was presented at the United European Gastroenterology Week 2025 found that a diet rich in fermentable fiber (specifically inulin and beta-glucan) may lower the risk of developing Crohn's disease. Each fiber type was associated with a 30% lower risk of developing Crohn's disease.
On the other hand, a lower intake of these fibers was linked to impaired intestinal permeability and inflammation.
Beta-glucan is a fiber found in cereal grains such as oats, barley, rye, sorghum, wheat, and mushrooms, seaweed, and yeast. It is a soluble fiber associated with a number of additional health benefits, such as decreasing inflammation, improve blood sugar management, and lowers cholesterol levels.
Inulin is a prebiotic fiber found in some plant foods, such as garlic, leeks, onions, asparagus, chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, dandelion greens, apples, and bananas.
There are different fibers in different foods - so a variety of fiber foods is optimal for our health. Fiber is found in whole grains, seeds, nuts, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
From Medscape: Fermentable Fiber May Lower Crohn’s Disease Risk
Increased intake of two fermentable fibers, inulin and beta-glucan, was associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing Crohn’s disease (CD) among first-degree relatives of patients with the condition. ...continue reading "Certain Types Of Fiber May Lower the Risk of Developing Crohn’s Disease"