Introduction: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by two subtypes, affecting either the colon (ulcerative colitis) or any part of the gastrointestinal tract (Crohn’s disease). Although the etiology of IBD remains unclear, nutritional factors such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and vitamin D deficiency have been identified as potential risk factors for IBD development. Omega-3 PUFAs have been under investigation as pharmaconutrients in patients diagnosed with IBD due to their anti-inflammatory effects such as oxidative stress reduction, improvements of mucosal barrier function and intestinal morphology, and reduction of adhesion molecule expression. Further investigation is needed to establish precise recommended daily intake to achieve IBD prevention or sustaining remission, as well as understanding a comprehensive dietary program that may relate to their potential efficacy.

Case Report: We report the case of a 22-year old female diagnosed with IBD, who presented with persistent symptoms of lower abdominal pain, bloating, increased bowel frequency, and hematochezia. Further laboratory work up revealed an elevated ratio of arachidonic acid (AA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and a vitamin D deficiency. Once she began co-administering high-dose omega-3 fatty acids (6.6 grams of EPA and DHA per day) and high-dose vitamin D (5,000 IU per day), her IBD-associated symptoms significantly ameliorated. Repeat lab work over the course of time correlated these clinical benefits with a significant reduction in her AA/EPA ratio, which serves as a marker of unresolved inflammation.

Conclusions: This case report and literature review highlight the potential benefits of co-supplementation of high-dose omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D as safe and effective therapeutic supplements to treat core symptoms of IBD, especially when coupled with a calorie-restricted anti-inflammatory diet. To investigate the efficacy of this dietary approach, a larger pool of the population must be followed over an extensive period of time, as well as developing a comprehensive theory of the biochemical mechanisms potentially involved in such clinical improvements.