Intense nutritional support in inflammatory bowel disease: a review.

We have reviewed the value of intense nutritional support in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), relying mostly on the limited uncontrolled studies that have been performed. In most circumstances, nutritional restitution and a short-term clinical remission are accomplished when this support is provided. In some patients, particularly those with Crohn's disease who undergo surgery, intense nutritional support probably decreases morbidity and mortality. Children with IBD can undergo linear growth rates with nutritional supplementation. There is a great need for additional controlled studies.