Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis is typically characterized by chronic inflammation and ulceration of the lining of the colon and rectum. It does not affect the small intestine and has been speculated to be an autoimmune disease.

DIET TIPS FOR DIGESTIVE DISEASES

  • Reduce the amount of red meat in your diet as this tends to slow down bowel transit time and therefore increase the stasis and inflammation in the lower bowel
  • Drink at least 2-3 liters of water/ day to keep the bowel regular
  • Avoid wheat based foods such as breads, cereals and pasta. This is due to wheat being extremely abrasive to the bowels and a highly inflammatory grain. Include as an alternative to wheat other grains such as spelt, rye, oats, barley, millet, quinoa and amaranth
  • Begin each morning with a small warm glass of water with 1/2 a lemon squeezed in it. Lemon has a cleansing action on the bowels and increases liver detoxification processes also

LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR DIGESTIVE DISEASES

  • Test for allergies as food intolerances are a big contributor to inflammation in the digestive system
  • Support the liver, bowel and immunity

NATURAL THERAPIES TO AID COLITIS AND CROHNS DISEASE

  • Antioxidantssuch as Selenium, Lipoic Acid, Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin Aare important nutrients which may help to reduce inflammation also. Antioxidants may help to decrease the amount of inflammation presentin the mucus membranes and reduce long term cellular pro-inflammatorycells which contribute to the cellular dysregulation of the digestivetract
  • Some suggested herbs which contain high amounts of antioxidantsare Japanese Knotweed, Grapeseed, Milk Thistle, Green Tea, Garlic,Ginger, Olive Leaf, Goji Berry, Acai Berry, Pomegranate and Turmeric
  • Slippery elm due to its demulcent effect to soothe the mucus membranesof the digestive tract. You can purchase this from your local healthfood store as a powder, add 1 teaspoon to a small glass of water(100ml) and drink 15 minutes prior to eating
  • Barley grass powder may help to alkalize your digestive system and the lining to be less inflammed
  • Probiotics are important for lower bowel health to ensure proper flora in the area
  • Fish oil contains Eicosapentaenoic Acid EPA an anti-inflammatory for the mucus membranes
  • Many people find that Aloe Vera Juice is soothing to the bowel and the pain experienced with inflammatory conditions

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