The role of diet and the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) continues to evolve, from shaping disease risk to supporting treatment strategies. In this interview with Richard Hansen and Chen Sarbagili, we discuss key misconceptions, emerging evidence, and what the future may hold for microbiome-based approaches in IBD.

Much of nutrition science has centred on what we put on our plate, yet when we choose to eat may be just as consequential. Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained attention as a strategy that may support metabolic health while also reshaping microbial rhythms, gut hormone secretion, and intestinal function. The growing interest surrounding this approach raises an essential question for clinical practice: does IF truly translate into measurable benefits?

Key advances in gut microbiome research during 2025

12 Jan 2026

by GMFH Editing Team

2025 has been a productive year in gut microbiome research, spanning metabolic health, neurogastroenterology, immune modulation, and precision nutrition. In this ‘Year in Review’ article, the GMFH editing team describes their pick of the top GMFH-covered advances in 2025, outlining their impact in the clinical setting and implications for current and future research.

The 6th biennial meeting of the European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, held at Queen Mary University of London, UK, from 4-6 September 2025, covered basic, translational, and clinical research in neurogastroenterology, including dietary therapies and ‘biotics’ for the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Find out more about the main takeaways from the conference.

Digestive Disease Week 2025 featured recent basic, translational, and clinical research into the microbiome. Find out more about the main takeaways relevant for your clinical practice selected by GMFH editors.

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