Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the intestinal tract. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, UMMC, an estimated two to seven people in every 100,000 has Crohn's disease, which generally develops between ages 20 and 40. In addition to medical treatment and healthy lifestyle habits, many alternative therapies can help treat Crohn's disease. Doctor's guidance is suggested prior to use of alternative therapies.
Dietary Changes
Dietary therapy may help prevent or alleviate Crohn's disease symptoms. People with Crohn's disease may have difficulty digesting or absorbing dietary fat properly. For this reason, MayoClinic.com suggests that people with the disorder adhere to a low-fat diet, one that is particularly low in saturated and trans fats found in processed and deep-fried foods, butter, margarine and shortening. People who find that fiber-rich foods such as raw vegetables trigger gas, bloating or other symptoms, may benefit from cooking vegetables prior to eating them. MayoClinic.com also suggests small, frequent meals rather than one or two large meals daily, proper hydration and avoiding personal trigger foods. Though foods affect people with Crohn's disease differently, common triggers include cruciferous vegetables, nuts, seeds, corn, popcorn, greasy foods and dairy products. Dietary and/or emotional therapy may help ease the process and increase effectiveness of dietary changes.
Dietary Supplements
Many people seek natural supplements as alternative therapy for Crohn's disease. While foods are optimum sources of nutrients, people with Crohn's disease may require dietary supplements in order to prevent nutrient deficiencies. MayoClinic.com suggests a basic multi-vitamin, pending doctor's approval. People with Crohn's disease may depend upon fish oil supplements for omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce bodily inflammation, and probiotics--healthy bacteria known to support digestion. While many herbal remedies are marketed as Crohn's disease treatment, MayoClinic.com warns that most lack scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness. Doctor's approval and guidance is suggested prior to the use of dietary supplements.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a therapeutic treatment that derives from ancient Chinese medicine. It involves the use of thin needles, inserted into strategic spots on the body in order to shift energy and improve health. Many Western medical practitioners believe that acupuncture stimulates nerves, muscles and body tissues and thus improves health. According to MayoClinic.com, acupuncture is commonly used as alternative treatment for Crohn's disease.
Exercise
Exercise may provide therapeutic effects for people with Crohn's disease and serve a helpful alternative or supplementary treatment. According to the UMMC, exercise can improve wellness and relieve stress--a common trigger of Crohn's disease symptoms. Activities that incorporate yoga, breathing exercises or meditation may further enhance the therapeutic effects of exercise. Physical activities should be approved by a doctor for safest, effective results.
