Etude du comportement alimentaire des patients atteints de la maladie de CROHN au niveau du service des maladies gastro-intestinales (Hôpital Ahmed Medeghri, Ain Témouchent)

Abstract

CROHN’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract that significantly affects patients’ quality of life, both physically and psychologically. Among the many aspects of its management, nutrition plays a central role. This study aims to explore and analyze the dietary behaviors of hospitalized patients diagnosed with CROHN’s disease, focusing on the relationship between their eating habits and individual characteristics such as age, gender, weight, medical history, and symptomatology. The research was conducted on a sample of 50 hospitalized patients, including 30 men and 20 women, aged between 19 and 73 years. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire addressing various dimensions: general eating habits, adherence to specific diets, food restrictions, preferred or avoided foods, and the influence of symptoms or medical advice on their dietary decisions. Findings reveal a considerable variability in dietary behaviors among patients. This diversity is mainly attributed to the unpredictable and fluctuating nature of the disease, in addition to personal factors such as sex, age, weight, disease history, and the psychological relationship with food. While some patients follow diets recommended by healthcare professionals, others rely on personal experience, adjusting their diet based on perceived tolerance to certain foods. Furthermore, disease activity—whether in flare-up or remission—significantly shapes dietary choices and intake. The study highlights that no universal diet can be applied to all individuals living with CROHN’s disease. Each patient develops a unique dietary strategy, often guided by trial-and- error experiences and personal observations. This underlines the need for personalized and multidisciplinary nutritional management that considers both medical recommendations and individual needs. In conclusion, nutrition should be regarded as a fundamental pillar in the comprehensive care of CROHN’s disease, not merely as a supportive aspect. An individualized, patient-centered approach is essential to improve comfort, reduce complications, and enhance treatment outcomes for those affected by this chronic condition.