AUTHOR=Vivanco Karlsson N. , Sigall-Boneh R. , Mårild K. , Hård Af Segerstad E. M. 

TITLE=Adapting the Crohn’s disease exclusion diet to a Nordic framework: a theoretical approach to cultural and nutritional customization

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Nutrition

VOLUME=Volume 12 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1590847

DOI=10.3389/fnut.2025.1590847

ISSN=2296-861X

ABSTRACT=Emerging evidence from diverse populations highlights the therapeutic benefits of the Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED) in managing Crohn’s Disease. To improve the efficacy of the CDED, there is a need to focus on cultural adaptation and individualization to support dietary adherence to this advanced nutritional therapy. This paper provides a theoretical framework for modifying the CDED to align with a Nordic diet (Nordic-CDED), while retaining the core principles and nutritional characteristics of the original protocol. Through a comprehensive literature review and expert consensus, we propose a Nordic-CDED that incorporates European regulations on food additives, the 2023 Nordic Nutritional Recommendations, and Nordic food culture. We present a theoretical foundation for an inclusion of whole foods and discuss the selection of enteral formulas. The adaptation also emphasizes the importance of dietitian-led guidance to tailor the Nordic-CDED to the patient’s age, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Further research is required to assess the clinical effectiveness and adherence to the Nordic-CDED.