Definition:
Inflammatory bowel disease is a general term for a group of chronic inflammatory
disorders of the bowel. The two major conditions are Crohn=s disease
and ulcerative colitis. Crohn=s disease is characterized by an inflammatory
reaction throughout the entire bowel wall. In ulcerative colitis
there is an inflammatory response limited largely to the lining
of the colon. These diseases share many commonalties.
Symptoms:
Crohn's - bouts of diarrhea and low grade fever
Weight loss, flatulence, and depression
Abdominal tenderness
Ulcerative Colitis-bloody diarrhea, with severe cramping at times
Rectal exam may show fissures, hemorrhoids, fistulas, and abscesses
Period of illness with fever and infection
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Dietary and supportive nutritional treatment should be immediately.
Removal of refined carbohydrates, gluten grains, dairy, citrus fruits
are a good beginning. Avoiding raw fruits and vegetables until the
inflammation has improved is necessary. Cook all fruits and vegetables
except bananas. Increase the protein content of the diet and remember
to consume large amounts of water and healing herbal teas. The best
teas are red raspberry, peppermint, and chamomile.
References:
Garrison, R. and Somer, E, The Nutrition Desk Reference, Keats Publishing,
New Canaan, CT 1985
Shehani, K. et al, Natural Antibiotic Activity of Lactobacilli Acidophilus
and Bulgaris, Cultured Dairy Prod. J. 11: 14, 1976
Michie, C., et al, AIntestinal Permeability, Diet and Growth,@ The
Lancet, Nov. 30, 1991; 338; 14033-4
DiMagno, E.P. AComparative Effects of Antacids, Cimetide and Enteric
Coating on the Therapeutic Response to Oral Enzymes in Severe Pancreatic
Insufficiency,@ New England Journal of Medicine, 297: 854-858, October
20, 1977
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
