Can I have Purition if I have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?

In short, yes, Purition will most likely be suitable for you, with some considerations.

Although living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can be difficult, it is vital to follow medical advice to control your symptoms so that you can live a normal life. Certain unreliable sources may claim that a particular 'diet' may ‘cure’ Crohn’s or colitis, but it is important to know that there is no scientific evidence to support this. 

There is also no special diet recommended for adults living with IBD. Following a medical diagnosis, according to the most competent health authorities (NHS, BDA, AfN, NS, Crohn’s & Colitis UK), it is advised that healthy, balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables is followed. This is very important, as without adequate nutrition, the symptoms of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can cause serious complications, including nutrient deficiencies, weight loss and even malnutrition.

Some things to consider before using Purition, if you have IBD:

1. A serving of Purition contains around 7g fibre, so it's best to start slowly and gradually increase your fibre intake over the course of a couple weeks to prevent unwanted side effects. Start with either half a serving (20g) per day or a serving of Purition (40g) every other day for the first week and work your way up.

2. During a flare-up of ulcerative colitis (UC), your healthcare professional may advise you to avoid foods that are rich in insoluble fibre. As Purition is a rich source of fibre, you may need to avoid Purition for a while. Once a flare-up has resolved, efforts should be made to reintroduce fibre gradually; you will then be able to enjoy Purition again.

3. Some people with Crohn’s can be more sensitive to the effects of fibre in the gut. For some people, fibre can help to reduce symptoms. For others, fibre can make their symptoms worse during a flare-up, so your dietitian may suggest that you temporarily reduce your intake of fibre. In such cases, you may be advised to avoid Purition until the flare-up resolves.

If your GP or dietitian made specific recommendations for you to follow to manage IBD, please refer to them for further advice. If you have a medical diagnosis of IBD (Crohn’s and colitis), it is also vital that you consult them before making any changes to your diet or embarking on a weight loss journey.