The standard treatment for medical conditions such as colitis and the resulting symptoms is medication. This is the way of the Western world. Although this may work for many, another option is available --- holistic treatment. This is Ayurveda in a nutshell. Its claims may seem unrealistic to some but may work if you give it the opportunity. Do not discontinue any current medication without first consulting your doctor.
Colitis
Colitis, also referred to a ulcerative colitis, causes inflammation in the lining of your colon and rectum, destroying cells. Ulcers then form, which produce pus and bleed. Inflammation may also cause your colon to empty waste frequently, resulting in diarrhea. Additional symptoms include anemia, weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, rectal bleeding and loss of nutrients due to loss of bodily fluids. No specific cause is known; only theories are advanced. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains that people with colitis have an abnormal immune system but this may be a result, not a cause. Although food and stress do not appear to induce the symptoms, they may make them worse.
Understanding Ayurveda
Ayurveda, when broken down, translates into "the science of life," explains John Douillard, DC, Ph.D., author of "The Yoga Body Diet." More than 80 percent of India's population rely on it to heal both body and mind. Used for more than 5,000 years in the Eastern world, its goal is to prevent or heal digestive problems. Douillard maintains that eating the wrong foods prevents your body from processing impurities. This can lead to elimination difficulties and medical conditions such as colitis.
Your Dosha
Ayurvedic beliefs state that everyone has a specific dosha or energy source. There are three: vata, pitta and kapha. Although everyone has a combination of all, one is most prominent. Each dosha plays a role in your emotional, physical and mental makeup, and each has a specific function within your body. It is essential that your dosha remain in balance; when out of balance due to an unhealthy diet or stress, Ayurveda believes it manifests itself as a disease. Each dosha has a specific diet to restore balance within your body.
Pitta Balance
An unbalanced pitta dosha is responsible for ulcerative colitis, according to the website Ayurveda For You. Douillard agrees, stating colitis and high blood pressure are common problems for an out-of-balance pitta. Your diet should consist of cooling foods, not spicy and salty. Foods high in fiber help as well. Your super foods include asparagus, which cleanses your blood and kidneys. Apples cool your liver, while blueberries protect from inflammation. Cabbage reduces inflammation and ulcers, along with grapes and pineapples. Tofu is easier to digest and may not spark colitis symptoms. Replace whole milk with rice or soy alternatives, eat more chicken and freshwater fish and choose cooling vegetables such as cucumbers, kale, lettuce, okra, watercress and fennel. Most fruit is acceptable.
References
- "National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse"; Ulcerative Colitis; February 2006
- Ayurveda For You: Ayurvedic Management of Ulcerative Colitis -- Part 1
- LivingWithUC: Managing Stress With Ulcerative Colitis
- "The Yoga Body Diet"; John Douillard, DC, Ph.D.; et al.; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Ayurveda; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; September 2009
