Professor Ho quoted in Daily Telegraph article on ulcerative colitis
Published: 19 May 2025
The School of Infection & Immunity's Professor Gwo-Tzer Ho has been quoted in a The Daily Telegraph article exploring the impact of ulcerative colitis and the role of diet in managing symptoms.
The School of Infection & Immunity's Professor Gwo-tzer Ho has been quoted in a The Daily Telegraph article exploring the impact of ulcerative colitis and the role of diet in managing symptoms.
Published on Sunday, 4 May 2025, the article, 'The six worst foods for ulcerative colitis – from someone who lives with it', shares the personal experience of journalist Isabel Gallagher.
Through her account of being diagnosed as a teenager, the piece examines common dietary triggers for those living with the condition, drawing on the latest clinical guidance and expert insight.
In the article, Professor Ho highlights the multifactorial nature of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting over 300,000 people in the UK.
“There is definitely a genetic link, but other clues include a weakened gut barrier and loss of healthy bacteria that help nourish the colon. Stress plays a huge role in causing flares.”
Later in the piece, the Sii Professor of Gastroenterology emphasises the importance of personal awareness when it comes to managing diet:
“There’s no catch-all advice when it comes to diet and ulcerative colitis. Everyone has different triggers, and it can take time to work out what’s right for you. But paying attention to what your body is telling you and making informed choices can really help people feel more in control.”
Professor Ho’s contribution underscores the importance of continued research into the causes and management of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as the value of clear, evidence-based advice for patients navigating their own care.
His research within the School of Infection & Immunity focuses on the mechanisms driving inflammation in the gut and how this can be modulated through treatment.
Discussing his contribution to the piece, Professor Ho added: "I have keen interest in public engagement in IBD and science.
"In recent years, I have worked closely with Crohn’s & Colitis UK, our largest patient charity particularly around research areas.
"Glasgow has one of the best nutrition and dietary research as seen in the work by Professor Kostas Gerasimidis, with whom I work closely."
First published: 19 May 2025