In a recent study published in eBioMedicine, researchers performed a meta-analysis to explore the impact of mood interventions on inflammatory disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The activity and progression of IBD, a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition, are associated with psychological, neurological, and immunological mechanisms regulating the gut-brain connection. Depression and anxiety can worsen the IBD prognosis. Psychosocial interventions may reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, potentially enhancing immune function and reducing inflammation. However, a recent meta-analysis found no improvement in disease activity and minor effects on anxiety, depression, and stress, indicating interventions with limited effects on mood may not improve the IBD prognosis.