This Color Food Dye Was Just Linked To Gut Inflammation & IBD

After 12 weeks of regular intermittent exposure (which mimics the type of exposure a human might get from food), researchers found that AR harmed gut health and contributed to chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in mice.

Specifically, researchers found that AR directly disrupts gut barrier function, alters gut microbiota composition, and is linked to an increased susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is an umbrella term for diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which are characterized by chronic inflammation and autoimmunity in the gut.  

Study author Waliul Khan, Ph.D., explained in a news release, "What we have found is striking and alarming, as this common synthetic food dye is a possible dietary trigger for IBD. This research is a significant advance in alerting the public on the potential harms of food dyes that we consume daily."

Yes, you read that correctly—daily. Many people consume AR every single day in foods like candy, soda, dairy products, and cereals. Children are also at risk, as it's often added to kids' products to add color and texture.

After what we learned from this study, it would be wise for all of us—digestive issues or not—to avoid foods containing Allura Red in honor of our long-term gut health. That said, avoiding food dye isn't the only way to adjust your diet to help protect yourself from IBD.

These have all been linked to an altered gut microbiome, increased intestinal permeability, decreased mucus barrier thickness, and an increased risk of intestinal inflammation, according to the study. 

A study linked the common food dye Allura Red to inflammatory bowel disease. Avoiding food dyes and other IBD-triggering foods and ingredients is one smart way to safeguard your gut health.