Natural Approach to Chron’s Disease – Debilitating Disease
Chron’s Disease is a serious disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. It causes inflammation of the tissue and usually is painfully debilitating. Crohn’s Disease happens when the body basically is fighting against itself, in terms of ‘good,’ and ‘bad,’ bacteria in the gut. Balancing out the flora is necessary in controlling outbreaks of Crohn’s Disease. Although there is no known cure for this disease, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms and any relapses of Crohn’s Disease.Usually one of the first symptoms of this disease is abdominal pain, but most people do not recognize it as Crohn’s Disease until much later. Some suffer for years, and some have been misdiagnosed,before ever finding out they have Crohn’s. There is a few things that you can do to provide relief in times of flare-ups or triggers of Crohn’s Disease.
A change of Lifestyle
Ultimately, a change of lifestyle is in order to help keep Crohn’s Disease under control. Smokers are more likely to develop Crohn’s as opposed to non-smokers. Also, siblings of people with Crohn’s Disease, stand a greater risk of developing Crohn’s themselves. It is best to avoid alcohol when suffering from Crohn’s as well,and if you do drink, keep it to a minimum. Stress, medications, infections, and seasonal changes could also cause flare-ups in those with Crohn’s Disease. High sugary, fried and greasy foods should ultimately be cut out of the diet of anyone with Crohn’s. It is best to avoid all seeds, corn and popcorn and controlling your intake of salt is also helpful. Eating smaller meals as opposed to three big meals a day, helps take the pressure off of your digestive tract. As with most things, try to exercise on a daily basis, but keep the exercise light, as too much can trigger an episode of Crohn’s Disease. Walking is a great exercise people with Crohn’s can do.Drink plenty of water and reduce your stress level. In this new found lifestyle change, it is essential that you learn to prepare meals that are not only nutritious, but easy on your body. Not only will you save money, but your body will be healthier. Salmon, eggs and whole grains are all delicious foods that can be added to your diet.
Herbal Remedies
As with most things, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, is ultimately a good place to start. People who suffer from Crohn’s Disease should try to include more vitamins A,B and D into their diet, as well as Calcium and Zinc. Non-processed whole, raw foods are always going to be the best choice. These will help alleviate inflammation, as well as provide the body with the necessary nutrients to fight this illness. There are a few herbs that one can try, and these include Boswellia. Boswellia is the most highly noted when it comes to Crohn’s Disease. Studies show in a single case study, where participants replaced perscription Mesazaline with Boswellia extract, the same reduced severity of their Crohn’s Disease. Boswellia extract should be taken three times a day for eight weeks. Another good herb is Slippery Elm. Slippery Elm is an anti-inflammatory, and helps both sooth and protect inflammed tissue, which is exceptionally helpful with inflammation outbreaks. It can be taken in capsule, tablets or in powder form. One teaspoon of Slippery Elm powder is combined with water, and drank three to four times a day. Ginger and Licorice are also two well known natural anti-inflammatory herbs. Another one to consider is Tumeric. Tumeric is the bright yellow spice, predominately used in Indian cuisine dishes, and has been known to be very helpful with Crohn’s Disease. Although you can sprinkle Tumeric on any food, capsule form is considered best for Crohn’s Disease, as it is a little more gentle on the stomach. Green Tea is another consideration. Green Tea is a natural anti-cancer agent, and individuals who suffer from Crohn’s Disease are more likely to develop colon cancer, Green Tea is an excellent choice for an added boost and protection to your diet.
Probiotics
Probiotics are essential when dealing with Crohn’s Disease. Probiotics flood your gut flora with ‘good,’ bacteria, and helps balance the body’s bacteria out. You can find probiotics in many things, but the most common are yogurts (that have added probiotics), and also kefir grains. Kefir grains are grains that can be added to any type of milk, usually cow, goat, or soy. Kefir grains then ferment and multiply, adding not only the much needed probiotics, but also lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Kefir grains have been around for thousands of years, and many people take part in its exceptional probiotic benefits. You can also add kefir grains to smoothies for a pleasant treat.
Side Effects
As with any herbal or herbal remedies, always err on the side of caution. While most are safe and have little to no side effects, there have been instances of herbs interacting with medications. Most individuals with Crohn’s Disease are on medications prescribed by their physician. Always be sure to ask if it is safe to take with any medication. If there are any allergies to any of these specific herbs listed here, please refrain from consuming.
Category: HERBAL REMEDIES
