Mediterranean Diet and Time-Restricted Feeding in Ulcerative Colitis Remission

This study will evaluate whether a 12-week dietary intervention can improve gut health, inflammation, and quality of life in adults with ulcerative colitis in remission. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a Mediterranean diet, a Mediterranean diet combined with time-restricted feeding (eating within an 8-hour window each day), or standard dietary advice. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, olive oil, and fish, while limiting processed foods and red meat. The main outcome will be changes in short-chain fatty acids in stool samples, which are markers of gut health. Additional outcomes include changes in inflammation markers, gastrointestinal symptoms, and quality of life. The results of this study may help identify effective dietary strategies to support patients with ulcerative colitis.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 to 60 years * Diagnosis of ulcerative colitis * Clinical remission for at least 6 months * Fecal calprotectin \< 250 µg/g in the last 3 months * Daily eating window ≥ 11 hours Exclusion Criteria: * Active ulcerative colitis * History of gastrointestinal surgery * Liver or kidney disease * Pregnancy * Eating disorders * Use of supplements (protein, antioxidants, probiotics) * Current restrictive diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-FODMAP) * High levels of physical activity