1. Fish Oil For All
Fish oil is one of the best natural remedies for Crohn's Disease, or inflammatory bowel disease, (IBD). Not only has fish oil shown to help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health, it is also a natural anti-inflammatory that will help to calm the entire digestive tract. Additionally, fish oil is rich in Vitamin D, which helps in the absorption of calcium. Because Crohn's Disease can effect absorption of vitamins and minerals, patients are often lacking in vital micronutrients, such as calcium. Studies show that once calcium is balanced in the body of people with Crohn's Disease, immune system function improves greatly and symptoms are reduces. Take 1 tablespoon of cod liver oil daily or 2 to 3 grams of fish oil supplements.
2. Feeding the Body Good Bacteria
IBD is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the entire immune system is weakened. Often when the immune system is weak due to many factors such as antibiotic or prescription medication use or simply flare ups of IBD symptoms, our bodies cannot properly fight off the growth of yeast in our bowels. Excess yeast growth, or candidiasis, can cause a variety of problems including digestive stress, skin infections, yeast infections and thrush. Probiotics which contain living healthy bacteria can be taken during IBD flare ups to help replace the good bacteria that destroy yeast and aid in digestion. Always follow your doctor's or the manufacturer's recommendations for dosage information.
3. Two Birds With One Stone
Exercise is one of the best remedies for inflammatory bowel disease, as it not only helps to get things moving through the digestive tract, it also helps to relieve stress which is a major trigger for IBD symptoms. As little as 15 minutes a day 5 days a week of gentle exercise can help you to manage your condition naturally.
4. Forget Inflammatory Foods
Certain foods can cause an inflammatory response in the body. While this may only have minor effects for most people, it can mean the end of remission for a person with IBD. It is important to avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as red meat and processed foods. Chemical additives, preservative, fertilizers and pesticides may also cause an inflammatory response, so eat organic as often as possible. Finally, sugars, refined wheat and flours as well as fried foods should be avoided to keep your IBD under control.
5. Let Your Diet Help You
Just as some foods cause an inflammatory response in the body, there are also a number of anti-inflammatory foods which can help ease your symptoms. Proteins from lean meats, fish and nuts can help to reduce inflammation in the bowels as well as healthy carbohydrates coming from fruits and vegetables. Finally, fiber may be the best addition to your Crohn's Disease diet, as it's bulking effect aids in the elimination of foods and toxins which may aggravate your symptoms.
