A nurse is providing education about Inflammatory Bowel Disease. What should the nurse include as a common symptom of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?

A) Incorrect. While some individuals with IBD may be lactose intolerant, it is not necessary for all to completely avoid all forms of dairy products. A blanket recommendation like this is not appropriate.

B) Correct. A low-fiber diet can help ease gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with IBD. It reduces the mechanical irritation on the intestines, which can be particularly beneficial during periods of active inflammation.

C) Incorrect. While a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is generally considered healthy, it may exacerbate symptoms in individuals with IBD, especially during flare-ups.

D) Incorrect. Spicy foods can be irritating to the gastrointestinal tract and are not typically recommended for individuals with IBD, as they can exacerbate symptoms.

Rationale

A) Incorrect. In IBD, the immune system is actually overactive, leading to chronic inflammation rather than being underactive.

B) Correct. In Inflammatory Bowel Disease, the immune system mistakenly identifies the body's own intestinal tissues as foreign invaders and launches an inflammatory response against them. This is known as an autoimmune response.

C) Incorrect. The immune system plays a central role in the development and progression of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is not uninvolved.

D) Incorrect. While the immune system is active in Inflammatory Bowel Disease, its focus is not solely on fighting infections. It is also targeting the body's own intestinal tissues due to a misdirected immune response.