Mindfulness Intervention Decreases Frequency and Severity of Flares in Inactive Ulcerative Colitis Patients: Results of a Phase II, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic, inflammatory disease, characterized by symptomatic periods (flare) interspersed with asymptomatic periods (remission). Evidence suggests that psychological stress can trigger flare. Studies have shown that mindfulness interventions (MI) reduce stress, foster more adaptive coping, and improve quality of life, but have been minimally used for UC patients. The objective of this study was to determine whether participation in an MI results in improvements in UC disease course and inflammatory cascades, mindfulness, perceived stress, and other psychological outcomes in inactive UC patients with limited or no exposure to past MI. METHODS: Participants were randomized to an 8-week MI or control group. Biological and psychological assessments were performed at baseline, post 8-week course, and at 6- and 12-months. RESULTS: Forty-three participants enrolled. The MI increased the state of mindfulness and mindfulness skills, decreased perceived stress and stress response in patients with inactive UC. The MI intervention significantly decreased the incidence of flare over 12 months (P < .05). None of the UC patients in the MI flared during 12 months, while 5 of 23 (22%) control group participants flared during the same period. CONCLUSIONS: MIs could be considered as adjuvant treatment for a subset of UC patients with high perceived stress and low state of mindfulness.The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01491997.

Inactive ulcerative colitis patients were randomized to a mindfulness intervention or control group. Biological and psychological assessments were performed over 12 months. The intervention significantly decreased the incidence of flares, increased the state of mindfulness and mindfulness skills, and decreased perceived stress and the stress response.

Randomised clinical trial: Efficacy and safety of Qing-Chang-Hua-Shi granules in a multicenter, randomized, and double-blind clinical trial of patients with moderately active ulcerative colitis.

Qing-Chang-Hua-Shi (QCHS) is a Chinese herbal formula, which is composed of 11 herbs. Studies have also shown that QCHS granules can alleviate colitis in animal models by preventing inflammatory responses and suppressing apoptosis through the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. To determine the efficacy and safety of QCHS granules in patients with moderately active UC. We performed a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of patients with moderately active UC who did not respond to 4 weeks of mesalazine therapy at the maximum dose. Patients were randomly assigned to groups and administered QCHS granules (125 g/day, n = 59) or an identical placebo, which was similar to the QCHS granules in color and taste (125 g/day, n = 60), with continued 5-ASA 4 g/d therapy for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the rate of clinical response and clinical remission at week 12. The secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life, endoscopic response rate, and mucosal healing rate. Any changes in mucus/bloody stool and diarrhea were recorded. Out of the 119 enrolled patients at 10 different centers in China, 102 patients completed the trial. Clinical remission and clinical response were seen in 31.48% and 92.59% of QCHS-treated patients, and 12.50% and 72.92% of placebo-treated patients, respectively. There was a significant difference between the two treatment groups. More patients receiving QCHS granules vs. placebo achieved remission of mucus/bloody stool (70.37% vs. 47.92%, P = 0.0361). Adverse event rates were similar (QCHS granules 38.33%; placebo 25.42%). In conclusion, QCHS granules were superior to the placebo in introducing clinical remission and mucosal healing, as well as in relieving mucus/blood stool in patients with moderately active and 5-ASA-refractory UC.

Quality of life in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and the impact of treatment: A narrative review.

As a chronic inflammatory disease, ulcerative colitis has significant negative impact on the quality of life (QoL) of patients. Since the disease affects many aspects of QoL, comprising multiple domains, treatments that induce and maintain remission can provide benefits beyond hard clinical endpoints. Effective treatment of ulcerative colitis can restore QoL and return it to normal or near normal levels. Biological therapies have shown consistent improvement in the QoL of patients with ulcerative colitis during the induction phase, with benefits that are generally maintained in the long-term. Current medical treatment options broadly comprise aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, thiopurines, and calcineurin inhibitors, as well as biologic therapies. Conventional therapies do not always adequately control disease in a sizeable portion of patients, while anti-TNF antibodies are associated with several issues such as contraindications, intolerance, primary non-response, and loss of response in some patients. JAK inhibitors have been associated with clinical improvements in disease manifestations and long-term improvement in QoL outcomes. However, additional studies are needed to better understand the comparative effects of different treatments on QoL and patient preferences for therapy. Herein, the available evidence is reviewed regarding the impact of various treatments on QoL in patients with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis.

Attitudes towards and use of cannabis in New Zealand patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an exploratory study.

AIMS: We aimed to assess the use of and attitudes towards cannabis use (medicinal and recreational) by people with IBD in New Zealand. METHODS: People with IBD were invited to complete an anonymous online questionnaire. Participants were recruited via postal mail using a hospital database of patients with IBD (developed by the Gas-troenterology Department at Dunedin Public Hospital) and via online recruitment (advertised on the Crohn's and Colitis New Zealand website, Facebook page and e-mail list). Inclusion criteria were ages 18+ and self-reported confirmed IBD diagnosis. RESULTS: In total, 378 participants completed the questionnaire, with 334 eligible responses. Partici-pants were predominantly New Zealand European (84%) and female (71%). Sixty-one percent of re-spondents had CD and 34% UC. Overall, 51% of respondents reported having ever used cannabis. Of those, 63% reported use as recreational and 31% for reduction of IBD symptoms. Users were more likely to be younger (on average by 6.4 years), with on-going symptoms, unemployed or self-employed and current or ex-smokers. There were no differences by disease status or severity. Symp-toms most reported as improved by cannabis use were abdominal pain/cramping, nausea/vomiting and loss of appetite. Fifty-four percent of participants reported that if cannabis were legal, they would request it for medicinal use to help manage their symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, our research aligns with previous observational research that reports im-provements in symptoms of IBD with cannabis use. Studies of a higher evidence level (eg, RCTs) would be needed to guide prescribing. In the meantime, this research provides useful background to clini-cians about patients' views and experiences.

Depression in individuals who subsequently develop inflammatory bowel disease: a population-based nested case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: Depression is a potential risk factor for developing IBD. This association may be related to GI symptoms occurring before diagnosis. We aimed to determine whether depression, adjusted for pre-existing GI symptoms, is associated with subsequent IBD. DESIGN: We conducted a nested case-control study using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink identifying incident cases of UC and Crohn's disease (CD) from 1998 to 2016. Controls without IBD were matched for age and sex. We measured exposure to prevalent depression 4.5-5.5 years before IBD diagnosis. We created two sub-groups with prevalent depression based on whether individuals had reported GI symptoms before the onset of depression. We used conditional logistic regression to derive ORs for the risk of IBD depending on depression status. RESULTS: We identified 10 829 UC cases, 4531 CD cases and 15 360 controls. There was an excess of prevalent depression 5 years before IBD diagnosis relative to controls (UC: 3.7% vs 2.7%, CD 3.7% vs 2.9%). Individuals with GI symptoms prior to the diagnosis of depression had increased adjusted risks of developing UC and CD compared with those without depression (UC: OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.79; CD: OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.92). Individuals with depression alone had similar risks of UC and CD to those without depression (UC: OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.29; CD: OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.38). CONCLUSIONS: Depression, in the absence of prior GI symptoms, is not associated with subsequent development of IBD. However, depression with GI symptoms should prompt investigation for IBD.

Gaps Exist in the Comprehensive Care of Children with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.

OBJECTIVES: To describe patterns of primary and specialty care delivery in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), delineate which members of the healthcare team provided services, and identify gaps in care. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey of parents of children (2-17 years) with IBD and adolescents with IBD (13-17 years) at a free-standing, quaternary children's hospital regarding healthcare receipt. RESULTS: There were 161 parents and 84 adolescents who responded to the survey (75% and 60% response, respectively). The mean patient age was 14 ± 3 years, 51% were male, 80% had Crohn's disease, 16% ulcerative colitis, and 4% IBD-unspecified. Most parents were white (94%), living in a suburban setting (57%). Sixty-nine percent of households had ≥1 parent with a bachelor's degree or higher. Most had private insurance (43%) or private primary with public secondary insurance (34%). Most patients received annual check-ups (70%), vaccinations (78%), and care for minor illnesses (74%) from their primary care provider. Check-ups for gastrointestinal symptoms, IBD monitoring, and changes in type/dosing of IBD treatment were provided by their gastroenterology provider (77%, 93%, and 86% of patients, respectively). Discussions about family/peer relationships, school/extracurricular activities, and mood were not addressed in 30%-40% of participants. Adolescents frequently reported that no one had talked to them about substance use (40%), sexual health (50%), or body image (60%); 75% of adolescents and 76% of their parents reported that no one had discussed transitioning to an adult provider. CONCLUSIONS: There were gaps in the psychosocial care of pediatric patients with IBD. Coordinated, comprehensive care delivery models are needed.

Effect of Lifestyle Factors on Outcomes in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.

Various lifestyle factors including physical activity and obesity, stress, sleep, and smoking may modify the risk of developing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). In patients with established IBD, these lifestyle factors may significantly impact the natural history and clinical outcomes. Recreational exercise decreases the risk of flare and fatigue in patients with IBD. In contrast, obesity increases the risk of relapse and is associated with higher anxiety, depression, fatigue, and pain and higher health care utilization. Obesity also modifies pharmacokinetics of biologic agents unfavorably and is associated with a higher risk of treatment failure. Sleep disturbance is highly prevalent in patients with IBD, independent of disease activity, and increases the risk of relapse and chronic fatigue. Similarly, stress, particularly perceived stress rather than major life events, may trigger symptomatic flare in patients with IBD, although its impact on inflammation is unclear. Cigarette smoking is associated with unfavorable outcomes including the risk of corticosteroid dependence, surgery, and disease progression in patients with Crohn's disease; in contrast, smoking does not significantly impact outcomes in patients with ulcerative colitis, although some studies suggest that it may be associated with a lower risk of flare. The effect of alcohol and cannabis use in patients with IBD is inconsistent, with some studies suggesting that cannabis may decrease chronic pain in patients with IBD, without a significant effect of biological remission. Although these lifestyle factors are potentially modifiable, only a few interventional studies have been conducted. Trials of structured exercise and psychological therapy including mindfulness-based therapies such as meditation and yoga and gut-directed hypnotherapy have not consistently demonstrated benefit in clinical and/or endoscopic disease activity in IBD, although may improve overall quality of life.

Perceived stress mediates the effect of yoga on quality of life and disease activity in ulcerative colitis. Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Yoga positively affects health-related quality of life and disease activity in ulcerative colitis. The underlying modes of action remain unclear. Within the present study we hypothesized that patients´ perceived stress mediates the effects of yoga on health-related quality of life and disease activity. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of yoga to written self-care advice in patients with inactive ulcerative colitis and impaired quality of life. Perceived stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Questionnaire, health-related quality of life using the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire and disease activity using the Clinical Activity Index. Outcomes were assessed at weeks 0, 12 and 24. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients participated. Thirty-nine patients attended the 12 supervised weekly yoga sessions (71.8% women; 45.0 ± 13.3 years) and 38 patients written self-care advice (78.9% women; 46.1 ± 10.4 years). Perceived stress correlated significantly with health-related quality of life and disease activity at week 24. Perceived stress at week 12 fully mediated the effects of yoga on health-related quality of life (B = 16.23; 95% Confidence interval [6.73; 28.40]) and disease activity (B = -0.28; 95% Confidence interval [-0.56; -0.06]) at week 24. CONCLUSION: Our findings confirm the importance of perceived stress in reducing disease activity and increasing health-related quality of life in patients with ulcerative colitis and impaired quality of life. Practitioners should keep psychosocial risk in mind as a risk factor for disease exacerbation, and consider yoga as an adjunct intervention for highly stressed patients with ulcerative colitis. CLINICALTRIALS. GOV REGISTRATION NUMBER: The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov prior to patient recruitment (registration number NCT02043600).

Vitamin D Decreases Beck Depression Inventory Score in Patients with Mild to Moderate Ulcerative Colitis: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.

The prevalence of depression in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is significantly more than in controls. Some studies assessed the link between vitamin D and depression. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of vitamin D on Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, 90 mild to moderate UC patients were assigned to receive a single injection of 300,000 IU vitamin D3 or 1 ml normal saline as placebo. At baseline and 3 months later, measurements of BDI score and serum 25-OH-vitamin D3 were done. Data were compared by independent sample t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Baseline BDI scores were not statistically different between the two groups (p = .4); scores decreased in the vitamin D group after the intervention (p = .023). Further subgroup analysis regarding baseline serum vitamin D levels and adjusted for baseline BDIs revealed lowering effect of vitamin D on BDI scores only in subgroup with baseline serum vitamin D levels equal to or higher than 30 ng/ml (p < .001). In this study, there was a statistically significant reduction in BDI score in mild to moderate UC patients 3 months after 300,000 IU vitamin D3 injection. Subgroup analysis showed that patients with sufficient baseline vitamin D may benefit from supplementation more than vitamin D-deficient patients, which indicates that higher serum vitamin D levels may be needed for its antidepressant effect.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Reduces Psychological Stress in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis have relatively high levels of stress and psychological dysfunction. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a psychological intervention that comprises acceptance and mindfulness procedures, along with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility and reduce stress. We performed a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effect of ACT on stress in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). METHODS: A total of 122 patients with quiescent or stable, mildly active IBD were randomly assigned to an 8-week ACT program or treatment as usual (control group). Clinical, demographic, disease activity, and psychological data and blood and feces were collected at baseline and at 8 weeks and 3 months after the intervention (week 20). Scalp hair was collected at baseline and week 20 for measurement of steroid concentrations. The primary endpoint was change in stress symptoms, assessed with the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Secondary endpoints included changes in perceived stress, anxiety, depression, quality-of-life domains, disease activity, and cortisol concentration in hair. RESULTS: Overall, 79 participants were included in the complete case intention-to-treat analysis. There were 39% and 45% reductions in stress in the treatment group from baseline to 8 and 20 weeks, respectively, compared with 8% and 11% in the control group (group × time interaction, P = .001). ACT was associated with reduced perceived stress (P = .036) and depression (P = .010), but not anxiety (P = .388), compared with control individuals. In the intention-to-treat analysis, changes in all 4 quality-of-life domains over time were similar in the ACT and control groups. In the per-protocol analysis, the overall well-being quality-of-life domain improved in the ACT group compared with the control group (P = .009). Subjective and objective disease activity measurements were similar between groups over the study period (all P values >.05). Hair cortisol concentrations correlated with stress (rs = 0.205, P = .050) and anxiety (rs = 0.208, P = .046) at baseline but did not change significantly in the ACT group over the study period compared with the control group (P = .831). CONCLUSION: In a randomized controlled trial of patients with IBD, an 8-week ACT therapy course improved stress and other indices of psychological health.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02350920.

Timing of surgery in ulcerative colitis in the biologic therapy era-the patient's perspective.

BACKGROUND: There is no general consensus regarding the ideal timing of surgery in patients with refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). Decision-making and timing of restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) is influenced by treating physicians and patients themselves. The aim of this study was to determine whether or not patients would have preferred the operation to be performed earlier, at the same time, or at a later point of time and to determine the reasons for their preference. METHODS: Clinical data of 193 patients with UC who have undergone IPAA were documented in a prospective database at our institution between 2004 and 2015. From this database, 190 patients were identified and a standardized custom-made questionnaire was mailed for follow-up survey. Patients who did not respond were called by telephone and encouraged to complete the questionnaire. RESULTS: One hundred nine questionnaires were eligible for analysis (57.4%). Average time between diagnosis and surgery was 11.2 ± 10.8 years (mean ± SD). Indications for surgery were refractory disease (70.6%), colitis-associated colorectal cancer (11.0%), high-grade dysplasia or stenosis (11.9%), and septic complications of UC (6.4%); 39 of 77 patients (50.6%) with refractory UC reported to have preferred their operation to be carried out earlier as it was actually performed (16.8 ± 11.9 months). Refractory course of the disease was identified as a predictor for a retrospectively desired earlier surgical approach (p = 0.014). CONCLUSION: A substantial proportion of patients felt that they should have undergone surgery earlier than actually performed. It appears that timing of the decision to undergo surgery is suboptimal. This situation may be improved by earlier surgical consultation in the course of the disease.

Modified Pfannenstiel Open Approach as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Total Proctocolectomy and IPAA: Comparison of Short- and Long-term Outcomes and Quality of Life.

BACKGROUND: A laparoscopic approach to total proctocolectomy with IPAA has been suggested to have better short-term outcomes and cosmesis, whereas open surgery by midline incision may result in shorter operative times. We hypothesized that a modified Pfannenstiel open approach would combine the advantages of both techniques. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of open total proctocolectomy with IPAA using a modified Pfannenstiel incision versus those following the laparoscopic approach. DESIGN: This was a retrospective study comparing patients submitted to open IPAA using modified Pfannenstiel incision versus laparoscopy from 1998 to 2014. SETTINGS: The study was conducted at a high-volume tertiary referral center. PATIENTS: Among 1275 patients, 119 patients underwent the laparoscopic approach and 33 underwent the modified Pfannenstiel approach. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Short- and long-term outcomes were evaluated, and quality-of-life questionnaires were assessed. RESULTS: Patients who underwent the modified Pfannenstiel approach were younger, more often women, and had lower BMI and ASA classification compared with those who underwent laparoscopy. Surgical time was lower in Pfannenstiel, and no difference was observed in length of hospital stay. No difference was observed in postoperative complications, pouch failure rate, or quality of life. Patients were then matched 1:1 by diagnosis, sex, age (±5 y) and BMI (±5 kg/m). The Pfannenstiel approach still had a shorter surgical time. No difference was observed in the length of hospital stay, complications, pouch failure, or quality of life. In long-term follow-up, pouchitis symptoms occurred more frequently in Pfannenstiel (mean follow-up = 7.3 y), and seepage was more frequently observed in the laparoscopy group (mean follow-up = 4.2 y). These differences were not observed in matched patients. LIMITATIONS: The study was limited by its retrospective design and inherent selection bias. CONCLUSIONS: The modified Pfannenstiel approach provides equivalent short- and long-term outcomes and similar quality of life compared with laparoscopy but with a significantly shorter operative time. The modified Pfannenstiel approach to total proctocolectomy with IPAA may be the most efficient method in selected patients. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A562.

Profiles of Patients Who Use Marijuana for Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

BACKGROUND: Marijuana is legal in a number of states for indications that include inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and patients are interested in its potential benefits. AIMS: We aimed to describe the legal use of marijuana in individuals with IBD in the USA who participate within the CCFA Partners internet-based cohort. METHODS: A total of 2357 participants who lived in states where prescription or recreational marijuana was legal, were offered the opportunity to complete a survey on marijuana use and IBD symptoms including perceived benefits of therapy. Bivariate statistics and logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with marijuana use. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by 1666 participants (71%) with only 214 (12.8%) indicating they had asked their medical doctor about its use and 73 actually using prescribed marijuana (4.4%). Within the respondent group (N = 1666), 234 participants lived where both medical and recreational marijuana is legal and 49 (20.9%) reported recreational marijuana use specifically for IBD. Users reported positive benefits (80.7%), but users also reported more depression, anxiety, pain interference, and lower social satisfaction than non-users. Those prescribed marijuana reported more active disease, and more use of steroids, narcotics, and zolpidem. CONCLUSIONS: Few IBD patients consulted their medical doctors about marijuana use or used prescription marijuana. Where recreational marijuana was available, usage rates were higher. Users reported benefits but also more IBD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and pain. Marijuana use may be higher in patients with IBD symptoms not well treated by conventional medical approaches.

Adolescent transition clinic in inflammatory bowel disease: quantitative assessment of self-efficacy skills.

OBJECTIVES: There is no model for the process of transition of adolescents with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) to the adult care protocol. We recently established a transition clinic where 17-year-old to 18-year-old IBD patients are seen by a multidisciplinary team including pediatric and adult gastroenterologists with expertise in IBD treatments, an IBD nurse, and a psychologist. We quantitatively describe this model and its benefits, and correlate demographic and transition parameters to self-efficacy in IBD adolescent patients before and after transition. PATIENTS AND METHODS: All adolescent IBD patients enrolled in our transition clinic between January 2013 and December 2015 were included. They completed a self-efficacy questionnaire ('IBD-yourself') before and after the transition. The scores were correlated to demographic, disease, and transition parameters. RESULTS: Thirty of the 36 enrolled patients (mean age: 19±1.8 years, range: 17-27) had Crohn's disease. Twenty-seven patients completed the transition protocol, which included an average of 3-4 meetings (range: 2-8) over 6.9±3.5 months. Self-efficacy scores in all domains of the questionnaire were significantly higher after completion of the transition. The weighted average score of the questionnaire's domains was 1.85±0.3 before and 1.41±0.21 after transition (P<0.0001). Age, sex, disease duration, duration of transition, and the number of meetings in the clinic correlated with the questionnaire's scores in the domains of coping with IBD, knowledge of the transition process, and medication use. CONCLUSION: A well-planned adolescent IBD transition clinic contributes significantly toward improved self-efficacy in IBD. We recommend its implementation in IBD centers to enable a personalized transition program tailored to the needs of adolescents with IBD in specific domains.

Older Age- and Health-related Quality of Life in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.

BACKGROUND: The burden of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the older population is increasing. Older-onset disease is associated with reduced use of immunosuppressive medications. In addition, older patients may be more vulnerable to the effect of disease-related symptoms and consequently may experience worse health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared with younger patients. METHODS: This prospective study included a cohort of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis recruited from a single center. All patients completed the Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ) and the short form-12 (SF-12) questionnaire yielding general physical health (PCS) and mental health component scale subscores (MCS). Patients older than 60 years were compared with those younger than 60 years using multivariable regression analysis. RESULTS: Our study included 1607 patients, among whom 186 were older than 60 at the time of assessment. Older patients were more likely to have isolated colonic disease and less likely to use immunosuppressive therapy. On multivariable analysis, older patients with IBD had higher SIBDQ (2.34, 95% confidence interval, 0.82-3.87) and SF-12 mental subscores (3.78, 95% confidence interval, 2.26-5.30), but lower physical HRQoL (-1.80, 95% confidence interval, -3.21 to -0.38). There was no difference in the SIBDQ and PCS scores between older patients and newly diagnosed IBD or with established disease. CONCLUSIONS: Older age was associated with modestly higher SIBDQ and mental HRQoL scores, but lower physical HRQoL. Comprehensive care of the older patient with IBD should include assessment of factors impairing physical quality of life to ensure appropriate interventions.

Cannabis and Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Change Blossoms a Mile High.

The trend toward decriminalization of cannabis (marijuana) continues sweeping across the United States. Colorado has been a leader of legalization of medical and recreational cannabis use. The growing public interest in the medicinal properties of cannabis and its use by patients with a variety of illnesses including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) makes it important for pediatric gastroenterologists to understand this movement and its potential effect on patients. This article describes the path to legalization and "medicalization" of cannabis in Colorado and the public perception of safety despite the known adverse health effects of use. We delineate the mammalian endocannabinoid system and our experience of caring for children and adolescents with IBD in an environment of increasing awareness and acceptance of its use. We then summarize the rationale for considering that cannabis may have beneficial and harmful effects for patients with IBD. Finally, we highlight the challenges federal laws impose on conducting research on cannabis in IBD. The intent of this article is to inform health care providers about the issues around cannabis use and research in adolescents and young adults with IBD.

Resveratrol Supplementation and Oxidative/Anti-Oxidative Status in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-controlled Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Oxidative stress is involved in both pathogenesis and exacerbation of ulcerative colitis (UC). This study was designed to evaluate whether resveratrol, an excellent anti-oxidant agent, can help in treatment of UC and its related oxidative stress. METHODS AND RESULTS: Fifty six patients with active mild to moderate disease were randomized to receive either 500 mg/day resveratrol capsules or the same amount of placebo for 6 weeks. Before and after the intervention, disease activity, quality of life, and oxidative stress were assessed using the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index Questionnaire (SCCAIQ), Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire-9 (IBDQ-9), and serum level of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), respectively. Serum SOD (122.28 ± 11.55 to 125.77 ± 10.97) and TAC (9.87 ± 1.51-11.97 ± 1.61) increased, whereas serum MDA (5.62 ± 1.18-3.42 ± 1.01) decreased significantly in resveratrol group (p <0.001). Moreover, resveratrol supplementation significantly decreased disease activity and increased the quality of life (p <0.001). CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that 500 mg/day resveratrol supplementation can improve the disease activity and quality of life in patients with UC at least partially through reduction of oxidative stress. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage of supplementation for these patients.

Food Intake Adequacy in Children and Adolescents With Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

OBJECTIVES: Diet assessment is essential in the care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to study food intake in children with IBD and evaluated the relation of dietary intake with disease activity and nutritional status in these children. METHODS: This cross-sectional study investigated 68 children and adolescents with IBD (57 Crohn disease, 11 ulcerative colitis). Evaluation included clinical, laboratory, and nutritional assessment including 3 days diet record. RESULTS: Compared with recommended daily allowance, the intake of patients with IBD was significantly poor for carbohydrates (75%, P = 0.016), calcium (49%, P < 0.05), magnesium (76%, P < 0.05), vitamin A (72%, P < 0.05), vitamin E (57%, P < 0.05), and fiber (44%, P < 0.05) and higher for protein (175%, P < 0.05), iron (112%, P < 0.05), and water-soluble vitamins (118%-189% P < 0.05). Compared with the intakes of healthy children from National Nutritional Survey, the intake of IBD group was lower for calories (78%, P = 0.012), carbohydrates (61% P < 0.05), magnesium (67% P < 0.05), vitamin C (34%, P < 0.05), and fiber (54%, P < 0.05) and high for B12 (141%, P < 0.05). Fifty subjects ate ordinary diets, 7 of 68 children were on exclusive enteral nutrition and 11 of 68 consumed regular food with different polymeric formulas supplements. Compared with children without supplements, children on exclusive enteral nutrition and nutritional supplements (18/68) had significantly better intakes of energy (1870 ±â€Š755 vs 2267 ±â€Š432, P < 0.05), carbohydrates (223 ±â€Š97 vs 292 ±â€Š99, P < 0.05), and all minerals (P < 0.05) and micronutrients (P < 0.05). Dietary intake was not different by disease status (remission or relapse). CONCLUSIONS: In the absence of nutritional supplements, food intake is inadequate for many nutrients in many children with IBD.

Managing Ulcerative Colitis in the Adolescent: Highlighting the Developmental and Self-management Needs.

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a lifelong disease that peaks in diagnosis between the ages of 15 to 25 years, making UC a significant chronic disease among adolescents that could affect the adolescents throughout their life. This article provides an overview of the role of nurse practitioners as health care providers in managing adolescent patients with UC with a holistic approach that encompasses the physical aspects of the disease, as well as developmental and psychosocial needs. By describing the influence that developmental stage and psychological stress have on patients with UC, the nurse practitioners can facilitate evidence-based and holistic care for adolescents and promote self-management.

LOWER LEVELS OF VITAMIN D CORRELATE WITH CLINICAL DISEASE ACTIVITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Background - Inflammatory bowel disease, comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a group of debilitating conditions associated with deregulated mucosal immune response. Vitamin D has been implicated in immune response and gastrointestinal function. Objectives - To investigate the correlation between serum vitamin D levels and disease activity and quality of life in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Methods - This cross-sectional study enrolled ambulatory patients with inflammatory bowel disease and assessed clinical disease activity and quality of life (Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire [SIBDQ]). Vitamin D levels were determined via serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurement; deficiency was defined as values <20 ng/mL. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS vs 20.0. Results - A total of 76 patients were enrolled, 19 with ulcerative colitis (25%) and 57 with Crohn's disease (75%). Overall, mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were low (26.0±10.0 ng/mL), while those in patients with Crohn's disease were significantly lower than ulcerative colitis (24.6±8.0 vs 30.0±12.5 ng/mL; P=0.032). Vitamin D deficiency was found in 30% of patients. Patients who were in clinical remission were found to have higher levels of vitamin D than those who were not in remission (28.0±10.3 vs 21.6±6.0 ng/mL, P=0.001). Inflammatory bowel disease patients with SIBDQ scores <50 were found to have significantly lower mean vitamin D levels compared with patients who had SIBDQ scores ≥50 (23.4±6.9 vs 27.9±10.8 ng/mL, P=0.041). Conclusions - A high proportion of patients with inflammatory bowel disease were vitamin D deficient, particularly patients with Crohn's disease. Both clinical disease activity and quality of life correlated significantly with lower levels of vitamin D, illustrating a clear need for supplementation in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Contexto - A doença inflamatória intestinal, que compreende a doença de Crohn e a colite ulcerosa, é um grupo de entidades incapacitantes associada a uma resposta imunitária desregulada. A vitamina D tem sido associada à resposta imune e funções gastrointestinais. Objetivo - Investigar a correlação entre os níveis séricos de vitamina D, a atividade clínica da doença e a qualidade de vida em doentes com doença inflamatória intestinal. Método - Estudo transversal que incluiu doentes em ambulatório com doença inflamatória intestinal avaliando a atividade clínica da doença e a qualidade de vida (Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire [SIBDQ]). Os níveis séricos de vitamina D foram determinados através dos níveis de 25-hidroxivitamina D; a deficiência de vitamina D foi definida para valores <20 ng/mL. Resultados - Foram incluídos 76 doentes, 19 com colite ulcerosa (25%) e 57 com doença de Crohn (75%). No global, os valores séricos médios de 25-hidroxivitamina D foram baixos (26,0±10,0 ng/mL), os doentes com doença de Crohn apresentaram níveis mais baixos do que os doentes com colite ulcerosa (24,6±8,0 vs 30,0±12,5 ng/mL; P=0,032). O défice de vitamina D foi identificado em 30% dos doentes. Os doentes em remissão clínica apresentaram níveis mais elevados de vitamina D (28,0±10,3 vs 21,6±6,0 ng/mL, P=0,001). Doentes com SIBDQ <50 apresentaram níveis significativamente inferiores de vitamina D em comparação com doentes com SIBDQ ≥50 (23,4±6,9 vs 27,9±10,8 ng/mL, P=0,041). Conclusão - Uma percentagem elevada de doentes apresentou deficiência de vitamina D, em particular doentes com doença de Crohn. A atividade clínica e a qualidade de vida dos doentes com doença inflamatória intestinal correlacionou-se com níveis mais baixos de vitamina D, ilustrando uma clara necessidade de suplementação desta vitamina em doentes com doença inflamatória intestinal.