Author information
1
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fellow, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9151, USA. Electronic address: m.pearlman@med.miami.edu.
2
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9151, USA.
Abstract
Food plays an essential role in normal cellular processes; however, certain foods may also trigger or worsen certain disease states. This article focuses particularly on the role of food in common gastrointestinal and liver diseases, and discusses the current evidence that either supports or debunks common dietary recommendations. Nutrition topics discussed include the use of artificial sweetener for weight loss, avoidance of all dairy products in the setting of lactose intolerance, dietary recommendations for diverticular disease, and dietary management in cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy.