A recent review by Weisshof and Chermesh (2015) examines evidence-based knowledge and recent advances in the use of micronutrients in patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The review found that micronutrient deficiencies are observed in >50% of IBD patients; common deficiencies include iron, B12, vitamin D, vitamin K, folic acid, selenium, zinc, vitamin B6 and vitamin B1.

These deficiencies are more common during active disease, occur more often with Crohns disease than with Ulcerative colitis and are associated with a more prolonged and complicated course of disease. Vitamin B12 deficiencies cannot be determined from serum levels alone, while vitamin D and K deficiencies are associated with a heightened inflammatory state. The relationship of micronutrient deficiencies with bone disease is controversial.

Professor Richard Gearry(IBD Research Review Issue 30 2015) comments that when one is faced with a severe disease with powerful therapies and surgical interventions, it is sometimes easy to miss the low hanging fruit. Simple measures such as addressing micronutrient deficiencies can lead to improved patient outcomes and is a marker of good IBD care. The frequency of measuring micronutrients should be determined by disease severity, prior surgery and prior micronutrient deficiencies.

Reference: Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2015;18(6):576-81