Crohn's Research Breakthrough

We are proud to have contributed funding into pioneering research and development of less restrictive diets for children with Crohn’s disease.

Crohn’s disease is a chronic and debilitating condition. Young patients with Crohn’s are currently treated through liquid only diets using feeding tubes - a difficult treatment to manage which can have significant implications for a child’s mental wellbeing.

The feeding tubes can sometimes lead to children feeling socially isolated, with parents telling us that their children often miss out on activities with their peers as a result of their treatment.

Thanks to our supporters, we have funded groundbreaking research to develop a solid food diet treatment which matches the effects of the liquid diet, giving patients more flexibility and confidence when managing their condition.

“By moving away from the liquid-only diet, young patients can avoid the side effects which come with being treated with medication, and can enjoy their childhood without the restrictions which come with feeding tubes.
The results proved to be overwhelmingly positive, with symptoms improving or disappearing after 8 weeks on the new ‘CD-Treat’ diet.”

Professor Richard Russell, Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist

We would like to thank the Catherine McEwan Foundation and our Young Ambassador Jenny Cook for helping to make this research possible, and for their support in shaping the care given to children and young people with Crohn’s and Colitis.