Functional Nutrition Targeting Root-Cause Pathophysiology Facilitates Remission in Ulcerative Colitis: A Case Report

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory bowel disease characterized by mucosal inflammation, dysbiosis, and impaired immune regulation. Conventional management often includes long-term corticosteroid therapy, which can mask autoimmune activity but does not address underlying metabolic and nutritional dysfunctions. We present the case of male patient who enrolled in a functional nutrition program for management of UC. Baseline laboratory investigations revealed abnormalities in hematological, metabolic, renal, and hepatic markers, alongside thyroid dysfunction and elevated inflammatory indices. A Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus (GI-MAP) demonstrated severe gut dysbiosis with overgrowth of pathogenic and autoimmune-associated bacteria, markedly elevated calprotectin, eosinophil activation protein, and positive fecal occult blood, consistent with active UC. The patient was placed on an individualized nutrition protocol that eliminated wheat, dairy, refined sugar, and processed foods, and was supported with a phased supplementation strategy including vitamin D3+K2, magnesium, zinc, omega-3 krill oil, probiotics, lactoferrin, glutathione, and colostrum. Over the course of the intervention, progressive improvements were observed in blood parameters, thyroid profile, and gastrointestinal function, along with normalization of key inflammatory markers. Clinically, the patient reported resolution of rectal bleeding, improved food tolerance, normalization of bowel habits, and enhanced energy levels, enabling resumption of normal professional and personal activities. This case highlights the potential role of individualized nutrition and targeted supplementation in reducing intestinal inflammation, restoring gut microbial balance, and supporting clinical remission in UC. Key words: Ulcerative colitis, Inflammatory bowel disease, Gut dysbiosis