The foundation of a nutritional program is a high-potency professional quality multi-vitamin/mineral. Studies demonstrate that many individuals with Crohn’s disease experience decreased absorption of zinc, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E and iron. They may often demonstrate suboptimal nutritional status of these nutrients. In some patients, folic acid deficiency is responsible for the development of pain, numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes. Zinc deficiency may cause the development of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Zinc is vital component of the immune system response. Supplementing with zinc is helpful for the skin and for vision problems. Zinc, folic acid and B12 are all needed for repair of cells damaged by Crohn’s disease. Vitamin A is needed for vision and for the growth and repair of cells that line both the small and large intestine. Professional formula multi’s like I sell have a regular and an iron-free for men.
Next supplement of major importance is a “green” product. Whether in powder or capsule form a “green” product has green grasses and green vegetables and chlorella etc. It is primarily vital as an alkalizing agent. It also provides a rich source of a balance of many minerals.
As the name implies- “essential” fatty acids are really very helpful. Borage seeds and oil, flax seeds and oil, fish oil, chia seeds and other sources of omega-3 should be ingested daily, about 2-3000 mg. Old-fashioned cod-liver-oil is a favorite. I sell a unique omega-3 which is highly absorbable, manufactured for the French government. Studies show that patients with Crohn’s are low in omega-3. In clinical studies, supplementing with omega-3 fats decreased the recurrence rate of Crohn’s disease. EFA’s are converted into hormones that suppress the inflammatory processes.’
Natural anti-inflammatory agents include white-willow bark extract, boswelia, ginger, bromelain, quercitin and curcumin. These supplements block the synthesis of inflammatory protoglandins and leukotrienes that play a role in all inflammatory conditions. Both ginger and curcumin have been shown to block the secretion of nuclear factor kappa beta, which promotes the release of inflammatory cytokines in auto-immune diseases. Curcumin alone, which is an extract of the spice turmeric, is an incredibly powerful healing agent. It has been shown to suppress the over secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha by macrophages and other immune cells. This culprit is in virtually all inflammatory and auto-immune conditions. There are no drugs available today that can make these claims and be non-toxic as well!
Digestive enzymes, pre-biotics and probiotics provide necessary digestion, breakdown and absorption. These prevent the buildup of partially digested food matter in the GI tract. Undigested food matter acts as an irritant, and further exacerbates the “leaky gut” condition. Some 80% of the immune system manufacturing process occurs in the colon. Improving the health of the micro-flora is vital. Improving elimination, cleansing the bowels often and thoroughly is also vital. Ultimately this leads to reversal of auto-immune and inflammatory conditions.
The gastrointestinal tract is the largest user of the amino acid L-glutamine in the body. The cells of the small intestine absorb more L-glutamine than any other organ, which they use as a primary energy source. Thus, L-glutamine supplementation can help build healthier intestinal cells, which is a key in Crohn’s disease cases. L-glutamine repairs the “leaky gut” situation in the walls of the intestinal tract.
Glucosamine sulfate, which is commonly prescribed for arthritic conditions and worn out cartilage, is required to make substances in the body that help seal blood vessels, preventing abnormal leakage of blood into surrounding tissues. Leakage of blood into the intestinal tract is a common feature of inflammatory bowel disease.
I prescribe a phenomenal product that combines L-glutamine, N-Acetyl glucosamine, citrus pectin, DGL licorice, aloe vera, slippery elm, mucin, marshmallow, chamomile, okra, cats claw, MSM, quercitin, and zinc carnosine. The combination of all these agents help relieve and heal Crohn’ patient’s suffering.
As a “physical” healer I treat patients with spinal adjustments, acu-pressure, laser therapy, and reflexology; all for the purpose of releasing blocked energies and promoting healing.
On an individual basis I test my patients for those foods and drinks and substances that promote inflammation in their bodies. While everybody is different, people do share many of the same weaknesses and sensitivities. I hope the above mentioned information in both articles has been helpful to you and others you may share this information with.
Learn more about the natural approaches to treating Crohn’s Disease in my video.