Crohn’s Disease

What you need to know

In spite of the suspected genetic factor in this condition, it can sometimes be effectively treated with natural therapies.

Most naturopaths would advise, as a starting point, a diet, which excludes wheat and Dairy products. Although this approach is generally dismissed by orthodox medicine, recent research by Workman, Jones and Hunter at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge has shown that the dietary approach can be more effective than the normal drug treatment.

The most useful supplements:

Research has shown that there are some nutrients that are deficient in people with Crohn's disease, which makes sense as this disorder causes malabsorption problems and requires certain dietary restrictions. It may be therefore be useful to supplement the diet daily, with a good 'easy to digest' multivitamin and mineral to ensure these deficiencies are addressed.

Acidophilus	To improve digestion take 1 capsule with each meal
Betaine HCI	1 to 2 capsules with meals
Digestive Enzymes	To improve digestion take 1 to 2 capsules with each meal
Fish-oil or Cod Liver Oil	To reduce inflammation take 1gm to 3gm per day
L-Glutamine	5gm in the morning and 5gms in the evening
Vitamin A	To help to maintain healthy mucous membranes of the digestive tract take 30,000iu per day.
Zinc and Copper	To help to maintain healthy mucous membranes of the digestive tract take 30mg of Zinc per day and 2mg of Copper

It may also help to add a pre-digested liquid protein to 20ml of fruit juice twice a day to ensure a supply of absorbable proteins and amino acids.

The most useful Herbs:

chamomile	Will help reduce inflammation and should be taken as directed on the label.
Liquorice	Will help reduce inflammation, speed healing and should be taken as directed on the label.
Marshmallow	Will help to soothe and should be taken as directed on the label.
Slippery Elm	Will help to soothe and should be taken as directed on the label.

Other herbs include:

Agrimony, Green Tea (astringent properties reduce diarrhoea)

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

It is suggested that Crohn's disease is caused by poor dietary habits and modern living, as this disorder is virtually non-existent in primitive cultures. It is therefore sensible to eat a well-balanced diet, which includes lots of fruit and vegetables, and uses moderate amounts of sugar, salt, fat, Meat and Dairy foods.
If you are already unfortunate to suffer with Crohn's, it may be useful to reduce or eliminate:

Dairy products
Gluten-rich foods such as wheat, barley, Oats and rye
Sugar and refined carbohydrates
tomatoes, raw fruit and nuts
Yeast

Eating more oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines and pilchards, will provide the anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, to help reduce severity and frequency of attacks.
It is important to drink at least 2 litres of water per day to maintain a healthy digestive function, this is particularly important if diarrhoea is a major problem.

Other useful advice:

Smoking is not a healthy practice, but research shows that it increases the risk of Crohn's disease and worsens the symptoms.

Gentle exercise and adequate rest is recommended to maintain a healthy digestion.

Crohn's disease, as with most digestive disorders, can be worsened by stress and Anxiety.

For further help contact: The National Association for Colitis and Crohn's disease - +44 (0)1727 844296 or www.nacc.org.uk

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The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.