The Importance of Nutrition in Behçet's Disease
Chapter from the book:
Demir,
H.
(ed.)
2024.
Current Research in the Field of Biochemistry.
Synopsis
Behçet's disease presents with various symptoms, including ulcers in the mouth and genital area, eye problems, skin lesions, gastrointestinal and neurological problems, arthritis, vascular complications and pulmonary indications. The etiology of Behçet's disease is not yet clear. It is considered an autoinflammatory and autoimmune trait triggered by genetic or infectious factors in genetically predisposed and susceptible individuals. Although disease flares in Behçet syndrome are unpredictable, a variety of potential triggers have been reported, including foods, stress, mucosal trauma, menstruation, tooth extraction, and infections. Given the rarity of Behçet syndrome, there is no established nutritional protocol specific to this condition. However, given the nutritional status of patients and its classification as a chronic inflammatory disorder, the clinical presentation of the syndrome is influenced by ongoing inflammation and medication use. Successful management of patients' food consumption should induce and maintain remission and improve patients' quality of life. As a result, these factors often cause changes in appetite, gastrointestinal function, and metabolic status. Therefore, regular monitoring of nutritional status is extremely important.