Dietary Management After Ulcerative Colitis Surgery: A Thematic Analysis of TikTok Content

Background/Objectives: For patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) requiring surgical treatment, post-operative dietary management can pose significant challenges. TikTok is emerging as a popular social media platform for dissemination of health and nutrition information. The aim of this study is to analyse patient-generated content on TikTok regarding dietary management post-UC surgery, in order to identify recurring themes and highlight patient priorities. Methods: Relevant TikTok videos were identified through a systematic search. Search terms were developed by combining ‘diet UC’ or ‘nutrition UC’ with common UC surgical procedures. From each search term, the first 10 videos were screened. If a search produced fewer than 10 results, all identified videos were retrieved. Inclusion criteria were videos in English, and a strong indication that the content creator was diagnosed with UC and had undergone relevant surgery, and was providing nutrition recommendations. Thematic analysis of video transcripts was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s framework to identify common themes. Results: A total of 89 videos, created between 2021 and 2024, were found on the initial search, of which 12 duplicates were removed, and 77 videos were screened. Sixteen English language videos met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Thematic analysis identified three overarching themes: (1) adaptive dietary progression in the post-surgical period, where patients described a phased approach to reintroducing foods post-surgery; (2) personalisation of diet, highlighting individualised strategies for symptom and hydration management; and (3) Emotional and social impact of dietary restrictions and modifications, including fear of food and social isolation. Conclusions: This thematic analysis offers an insight into how patients navigate the complex management of diet following UC surgery. It is important for clinicians to discuss the dietary information and online content patients are exposed to in relation to their condition. Additionally, clinical practice should evolve to embrace patient-centred, multidisciplinary approaches that validate lived experience, ensure consistent dietary guidance, and address the psychological burden of dietary restriction.