Aside from the hemispheres for which they exist, another difference separates the Western and Eastern worlds -- their medicinal approaches to healing. While the Western world relies on medication, the Eastern world believes in holistic methods, one of which is Ayurveda. Many scholars believe it is the oldest healing science, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. It may work for treating ulcerative colitis, but consult your doctor before using this method or discontinuing medications.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition causing symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue, rectal bleeding, joint pain, anemia, loss of appetite and loss of nutrients due to loss of bodily fluids. The inflammation and ulcers replace the destroyed cells that result from this condition and result in frequent diarrhea. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports no specific cause is known, but emotional stress and food sensitivity may worsen your symptoms.
Ayurveda
John Douillard, Ph.D., practitioner of ayurveda and author of "The Yoga Boda Diet," explains that Ayurveda translates into "the science of life." More than 80 percent of India's population uses this holistic method as a means of preventing disease and healing body and mind. The basic principle of Ayurvedic belief is that eating the wrong food and living the wrong lifestyle leads to digestive problems that makes it difficult for your body to rid itself of impurities. Douillard maintains these elimination difficulties can manifest themselves in the form of sickness, such as ulcerative colitis.
Your Personal Energy
An important aspect of Ayurvedic belief is the energy pattern each person possesses. This energy source, known also as a dosha, controls various functions in your body. The foundation of Ayurveda is achieving and maintaining a healthy balance between your body and mind to live a healthy life. Disturbing the energy balance of your dosha, either through poor eating habits, stress or environmental factors, can result in an imbalance and a buildup of digestive impurities. Each dosha has specific foods to help restore and maintain balance.
The Pitta
Pitta is one of the three doshas that exist in ayurveda. It controls the metabolic system in your body, which includes digestion and absorption of nutrients. The website, Ayurveda For You, explains that Pitta doshas are more prone to developing ulcerative colitis. A Pitta is fiery by nature, therefore, cooling foods are necessary to restore balance. Avoid spicy items, such as cayenne peppers. Opt for apples, which cool your liver, and blueberries to prevent inflammation of the intestines. Tofu may prevent the symptoms of ulcerative colitis because it is easier to digest. Cabbage, grapes and pineapples all reduce inflammation and ulcers, according to Douilard. Make chicken and freshwater fish your prime entree choices, with cooling vegetables such as okra, watercress, fennel or kale.
