Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease causes inflammation in the small intestine. Crohn's
disease usually occurs in the lower part of the small intestine,
called the terminal ileum, but it can affect any part of the
digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. The inflammation extends
deep into the lining of the affected organ (fistulizing disorder).
The inflammation can cause pain and can make the intestines empty
frequently, resulting in diarrhea.
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory
bowel disease (IBD), the general
name for diseases that cause inflammation in the intestines. Crohn's
disease can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar
to other intestinal disorders such as
irritable bowel syndrome and to
another type of IBD called ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis
causes inflammation and ulcers in the top layer of the lining of the
large intestine. Crohn's disease may also be called "ileitis"
or "enteritis".
Its cause is still unknown although it is known that certain history
of food allergies increases the risk of developing it. Eliminating
allergenic foods often relieve symptoms. Studies also have shown that
free radical damage maybe invloved and that a lack of vitamin C and E
may play a role.
The most common symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, often
in the lower right area, and diarrhea. Rectal bleeding, weight loss,
fever and headaches may also occur. Bleeding may be serious and
persistent, leading to anemia.
Nutritional Advise: Crohn's Disease
These supplements are essential in assisting in Crohn's disease:
Omega 3 fatty acids (flaxseed oil, primrose oil, salmon oil are all good
sources) taken 3 times daily. Need for repair of the digestive tract and it
reduces the inflammatory process.
Pancreatin and Bromelain, taken with meals 2-3 times daily. This is to breakdown
protein and assist in digestion.
Vitamin C, 1000 mgs 3 times daily. Prevents inflammation and improves immunity.
Vitamin K, 300 mcg daily. Vital to colon health. Helpful for those with
malabsoprtion or diarrhea. (k2 is recommended form)
Zinc, 50 mgs daily needed for the immune system and healing.
Vitamin E up to 800 IU daily, antioxidant that helps in controlling infection
and repair of the intestinal tract. (Natural D-Alpha, not DL...recommended)
Acidophilus supplement can help the healthy gut bacteria grow, while reducing
the harmful bacteria. Be certain that there are 'live organisms' in the pills.
Another source of healthy bacteria is yogurt (make sure the container says
'contains live cultures'). Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) may be added to
acidophilus pills. FOS are carbohydrates that are not digestible by humans, but
serve to help the beneficial bacteria to grow.
Psyllium should be added to the diet gradually by beginning with a few teaspoons
and slowly increasing the dosage over a week's time. Taken with at least eight
glasses of water a day, psyllium can help with the symptoms of constipation or
diarrhea. Discontinue use if either condition worsens.
Evening Primrose Oil has many women with IBS report that symptoms are worse
during their menstrual period. Evening primrose oil may help to improve
symptoms.
http://www.peacefulmind.com/ibs.htm
Good that you have a positive and optimistic attitude, that will get you far! Sorry to hear you've been diagnosed with Crohn's, here's a bit of info with some natural things that may help...