Cases of IBD have risen by almost 50% around the globe, including a 25% rise in children. Why the dramatic growth? Increasingly, research suggests that environmental factors like diet, stress, and exposure to pollutants are increasing both the risk and the severity of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Swipe through our Instagram carousel to learn about the surprising things you could be exposed to every day that impact IBD, and follow HealthCentral’s socials for the latest info to help you live your healthiest life with Crohn’s, UC, and 150-plus other chronic conditions.