Case Report & Review: Functional Nutrition Support in Pediatric Colitis
Amela Ivković O’Reilly*, and Dip NT
ABSTRACT
Patient: Child Diagnosed with colitis (ulcerative colitis or IBD).
Intervention Period: 3 months (epithelial support supplements), ongoing nutritional & probiotic strategy.
Background: Pediatric colitis involves chronic inflammation of the colon, with symptoms including abdominal pain, malabsorption, and impaired growth. Nutritional status, micronutrient deficiencies (e.g. zinc, vitamin D), and gut microbiome imbalances play key roles in disease activity and mucosal healing [1]. Omega‑3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and antioxidant-rich diets are associated with reduced relapse risk and better outcomes in IBD [2]. Clinical evidence shows aloe vera gel can induce remission in mild ulcerative colitis versus placebo [3]. Zinc and glutamine support intestinal barrier integrity and reduce inflammatory markers in children [4]. Probiotics have demonstrated benefit as adjuncts in mild pediatric UC [5].
