Many patients use CAM therapy in the treatment of their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and frequently they do not disclose this to their physicians unless specifically asked. This chapter reviews specific dietary therapies for IBD, including the specific carbohydrate diet, low-FODMAP diet, gluten-free diet, low-fiber versus high-fiber diet, and exclusive enteral nutrition. Important dietary deficiencies in IBD patients are discussed. The role of prebiotics and probiotics for the treatment of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are summarized, as are the data on well-studied dietary supplements such as curcumin, essential fatty acids, and Boswellia serrata. Emerging CAM therapies, including low-dose naltrexone, cannabis, and fecal microbiota transplant, are briefly covered. Lastly, a synopsis of mind–body therapies in the treatment of IBD is presented.
