Broccoli Sprouts for Mild Ulcerative Colitis

A Pilot Feasibility Study to Develop a Broccoli Sprouts-enriched Diet in the Management of Ulcerative Colitis

The goal of this study is to determine the number of servings of broccoli sprouts sufficient to (1) increase sulforaphane levels in the stool and blood and (2) reduce inflammatory markers in patients with mild ulcerative colitis. This is a pilot feasibility study to prepare for a larger randomized controlled trial.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Documented endoscopic diagnosis of ulcerative colitis

• Currently being treated with a stable dose of 5-ASAs, steroids, or any other medication approved for ulcerative colitis

  • If on 5-ASA, no dose changes within 2 weeks before the Day 0 visit
  • If on steroids, prednisone dose not more than 20 mg daily and entocort not more than 9 mg daily, with no dose changes within 2 weeks before the Day 0 visit
  • All other medications require a stable dose for at least 8 weeks prior to enrollment.
  • No dose changes to any IBD medication anticipated for the duration of the study

• Body Mass Index (BMI) values 18.5-40 kg/m2

• Not on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or receiving tube feeds.

• Ability to understand the study procedures, benefits and risks, and sign a written informed consent document.

• Able to fill out questionnaires regarding dietary intakes, bowel symptoms, and study experience

Exclusion Criteria:

• Taking Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Following a medically-prescribed diet, on Total parenteral nutrition (TPN), or tube feeds
• Newly diagnosed (within past month), or uncontrolled diabetes or cardiovascular disease
• Antibiotics in the previous 2 weeks
• Consumption of more than 5 ½ cups of servings/day of fruits and vegetables as assessed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Diet History Questionaire III online Food Questionnaire.
• A known allergy or sensitivity to cruciferous vegetables like arugula, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, or collard greens