Colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that involves irritation and inflammation in the inner layer of the intestine. When inflammation results in open sores, or ulcers, in the intestinal lining, the disorder is called ulcerative colitis. It occurs most often between the ages of 15 and 30 and may become severe and debilitating in some people. Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound with anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve symptoms of colitis. Consult your doctor to discuss curcumin before adding it to your regimen.
Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors
The symptoms of colitis may be different from person to person but usually include abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Some people also experience weight loss, poor appetite, anemia or fatigue. Although not completely understood, the cause of colitis may be an abnormal immune reaction triggered by an intestinal microorganism that may be pathogenic or harmless. You are at increased risk for colitis if you have a family history of the disorder, if you are Caucasian or if you have ever used certain drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.
Curcumin Identified
Curcumin is a natural compound found in the spice turmeric, which is made from the rhizome of a plant called Curcuma longa. Practitioners of traditional Indian medicine, or Ayurveda, recommend turmeric for many illnesses, including infection, kidney disease and gastrointestinal problems. The properties of curcumin also make it potentially useful for inflammatory conditions such as colitis.
Properties
Curcumin is an antioxidant that removes free radicals from the body, protecting your cells from damage caused by these metabolic byproducts. It also has anti-inflammatory activity, reducing production of inflammatory chemicals by certain immune cells. In a clinical study of curcumin, published in "Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology" in 2006, subjects who had previously experienced colitis and were in remission were given either curcumin or a placebo. The group taking curcumin relapsed and suffered colitis attacks at a much lower rate than those who took the placebo. These are promising results, although studies of curcumin in subjects with active colitis are still needed.
Recommendations and Precautions
Curcumin derived from turmeric is available from most health food stores as a standardized supplement in capsules. The recommended dosage is 400 to 600 mg, two or three times daily. Curcumin is considered a safe supplement, although it may cause stomach upset if taken for extended periods. Do not take curcumin if you have gallstones or bile obstruction or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Curcumin may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, drugs prescribed to reduce stomach acid and diabetes drugs. Discuss its use with your doctor to determine if it is appropriate for you.
