Inflammatory bowel disease affects millions of people, and new research suggests modern diets may play a role. Studies found that diets high in ultraprocessed foods were linked to a higher risk of Crohn’s disease, a chronic condition that causes ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract. The link was much stronger for Crohn’s than for ulcerative colitis, pointing to different dietary triggers.
Researchers believe common ingredients in ultraprocessed foods may weaken the gut’s natural protective barrier. Additives used to improve texture and shelf life can disrupt gut bacteria, increase intestinal “leakiness” and activate the immune system. Together, these changes may make chronic inflammation more likely to develop.
The findings suggest that how food is processed matters as much as what type of food it is. Diets heavy in packaged and industrial products may raise gut inflammation, even if they are labeled as plant-based. Eating more whole, minimally processed foods may better protect long-term gut health and lower inflammatory risk.
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