Crohn's disease affects 2 to 7 out of 100,000 people and researchers believe that these numbers are growing, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids are becoming increasingly popular among Crohn's sufferers. It is important to educate yourself on the risks and benefits associated with taking any supplement, so consult your physician to discuss any side effects or interactions beforehand.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that causes ongoing inflammation of the intestinal tract. The disease can occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. It can cause ulcers, intestinal bleeding and blockages in the intestines. There is no cure or cause and treatment aims to keep the symptoms under control. The most common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. Treatment usually consists of drug therapy and more severe cases may require surgical removal of the infected part of the intestines. Many turn to herbal supplements for help relieve their symptoms.
Omega-3
Omega-3 is one of the essential fatty acids. These fatty acids must be obtained through food because the body does not produce them naturally. Omega-3 can reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, states UMMC. Omega-3 is most commonly found in fish, such as salmon and tuna. As a supplement, it is often marketed as a fish oil and taken orally.
Connection
The effects of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammation may be beneficial in patients with Crohn's disease when added to standard therapy, according to MayoClinic.com, although studies have produced conflicting results.
Conclusion
Though the results from studies have been mixed, taking omega-3 fatty acids may help to alleviate inflammation and decrease the risk of recurrence of symptoms for some patients, the UMMC notes. Additional studies are needed to determine the benefits of taking omega-3 fatty acids to treat Crohn's disease, so discuss taking them with your physician. Patients taking blood thinners, who bruise easily or have blood disorders, should consult their physicians, since omega-3 fatty acids may cause an increase in bleeding and bruising.
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