Final answer:
The IWGDF's statement regarding nutritional supplementation not affecting ulcer healing is true. Peptic ulcers are often caused by infection or use of NSAIDs, and not primarily diet. Essential nutrients must come from the diet, and glucose can be absorbed without being broken down. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) suggests that nutritional supplementation has not been shown to affect ulcer healing is true. It is crucial to note the various factors that contribute to ulcer healing beyond just nutrition, including the management of underlying conditions, proper wound care, and in some cases, medical interventions.
Peptic ulcers are commonly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), rather than diet. A disorder of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that can be helped by anti-inflammatory medications is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn's disease, while chronic use of anti-inflammatory medications can cause peptic ulcers.
Furthermore, people with ulcerative colitis, which falls under IBD, should be frequently screened for colorectal cancer due to an increased risk.
Essential nutrients, as the name suggests, cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet. This includes certain amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. The digestive enzyme pepsin, present in the stomach, digests proteins and does not break down cellulose, which requires enzymes that humans lack. Lastly, glucose is a simple sugar that can be absorbed directly by the body without needing to be broken down further.