Chronic bowel diseases
In this research theme, we study the effect of nutrition and physical activity on the course of chronic bowel diseases and on the gut microbiome.
Chronic bowel diseases (CBD) are highly prevalent, and the incidence is rising. This may concern men and women of all ages. CBD have a negative impact on a person’s quality of life. A sedentary, stressful lifestyle with poor nutrition may have a negative effect on the course of CBD. Therefore, even during medical treatment, lifestyle factors may play a role on the course of these diseases. In our research group, we study the effect of nutrition and physical activity on the course of chronic bowel diseases and on the gut microbiome.
Focus
The focus is on inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and on non-inflammatory diseases such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, constipation, and abdominal complaints in neurological disorders such as neurogenic bowel problems in spinal cord injury. We also conduct research into improving the condition before and after surgery to prevent postoperative complications of the gastrointestinal tract. We have strong collaborations with hospital Gelderse Vallei in Ede, Rijnstate hospital in Arnhem, Heliomare rehabilitation centre Wijk aan Zee and several academic medical centres.
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Research themes
Cancer
We study the influence of diet and other lifestyle factors in the development of cancer as well their role during and after cancer treatment.
Nutrition and cardiometabolic diseases
We investigate the role of dietary intake and eating patterns in the prevention and management of cardiometabolic diseases, and their contribution to the underlying biological mechanisms.
Chronic bowel diseases
In our research group, we study the effect of nutrition and physical activity on the course of chronic bowel diseases and on the gut microbiome.
Obesity treatment
We focus on optimising nutritional care for patients with morbid obesity undergoing bariatric surgery, before and after the procedure.