Crohn's disease is a disease that causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It may occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus and most commonly occurs in the large intestine. People with Crohn's disease are frequently burdened with stomach aches, rectal bleeding and chronic diarrhea. Crohn's disease does not have a cure, leaving many sufferers researching alternative treatment options.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammatory bowel diseases include conditions that occur within the gastrointestinal system long-term and cause chronic inflammation. Inflammation from Crohn's disease causes swelling that goes deep into the intestinal tissue, causing permanent damage and scarring. There is no known cause for Crohn's disease, leading to a inability to prevent the disease.
Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus occurs naturally in the intestines. Probiotics are naturally occurring bacteria that help the body fight harmful bacteria. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, when foods are broken down in the intestine harmful bacteria can start to grow. Acidophilus helps control the amount of growth of "bad" bacteria. Acidophilus is contained in some milk, yogurt, capsules and powder.
Treating Crohn's with Acidophilus
Some people use acidophilus for digestive problems, including diarrhea and irritable bowel disease. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates the effectiveness of alternative treatments with scientific evidence. The database states that acidophilus is likely effective against diarrhea and some irritable bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease. The National Institutes of Health reports that some patients undergoing treatment for one year that included lactobacillus as part of the regimen had improvement with ulcerative colitis another irritable bowel disease similar to Crohn's disease.
Considerations
People with weakened immune systems or artificial heart valves should speak with their doctor prior to taking acidophilus. Acidophilus increases the chances for developing bacterial infections. Sulfasalazine, a medication used to treat irritable bowel disease, may not be as effective if taken while using acidophilus. Acidophilus is a popular supplement sold in the United States, but there isn't enough evidence to support its effect on Crohn's disease. As with starting any new treatments, consult your doctor first.
