Top 5 Supplements for Crohn's & IBD
Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease that affects thousands of people across America. Many studies were done regarding the rising Crohn's epidemic. These studies found the most incidences of Crohn's disease among the Jewish population. Scientists are puzzled over this mysterious phenomenon.
The rising incidence of Crohn's may be caused by overuse of anti-biotics, vaccines, anti-depressants, and stress. Stress is a major contributing factor. In fact scientists now consider the gut to be a second brain. When people are nervous or put in a stressful situation, their stomach begins to churn. Ever heard of the expression "butterflies in the stomach"? There is a direct correlation between emotions to overall health, especially digestive health. When people lead a stressful lifestyle, it takes a toll.
Another possible cause for digestive disorders is nutrient deficiency. When eating a diet high in processed foods (cereals, junk food, soda) and sugar, not to mention trans fats (fried foods, unhealthy cooking oils, margarine) and little to no vegetables (potatoes don't count), nutrient deficiency will result. The only way to fix this is through diet change and detoxification. Detoxification gets rid of the toxins that have been accumulating.
A great way to improve digestive health is through supplementation. Supplements can offer much needed vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that the human body desperately needs.
Supplements
Probiotics
Probiotics are vital for digestive health. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria present throughout the body, but, mostly in the gut. Probiotics keep the harmful yeast, fungi, and bad bacteria in check. They also work with the immune system. They help identify harmful pathogens and microbes, alert the immune system of their presence, and order an attack.When there is an imbalance of gut flora (good and bad bacteria in the gut) bad bacteria proliferate and the immune system goes haywire.
An imbalance in gut flora, where the bad bacteria and yeast overpower the good bacteria, can cause Digestive illness including Crohn's, Colitis, and IBS. Natural food sources of probiotics are fermented foods such as sauerkraut and homemade organic goat kefir. Probiotic supplements have also shown to be beneficial for people with digestive problems. Supplementing before meals has shown to reduce discomfort and bloating.
Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are vital for gut health. They help break down foods and absorb nutrients. In addition, they help regulate the PH levels of the stomach. They are usually taken before meals.
Mastic gum
Mastic has been used for centuries for treating gastrointestinal ailments and is now known to kill Helicobacter pylori. Helicobacter Pylori is the bacterium responsible for most cases of non-erosive gastritis (a chronic inflammation of the stomach) and most gastric and duodenal ulcers (collectively known as peptic ulcers). H. pylori is also implicated in stomach cancer. Mastic gum has anti-microbial and antibiotic properties. It has been shown to relieve bloating and reduce stomach pains.
Bentonite Clay
Calcium Bentonite clay (taken orally) has the ability to draw out toxins and supply the body with much need minerals. It is strongly recommended by Dr. Jordan Rubin for people suffering from diarrhea. It will help firm up stool. It is also naturally anti-bacterial and kills harmful pathogens and microbes in the gut.
Magnesium
For people with chronic constipation, taking magnesium orally or massaging Magnesium Oil onto the abdomen counter clockwise can relieve constipation and stomach pain. Studies have shown that people with severe diarrhea are deficient in magnesium.
Leah M. is the author of "The Kosher Gut Plan- Reboot Your Digestive System Naturally". The book describes in detail alternative treatments, healing foods and recipes for IBS, Colitis, and Crohns. Her book is available for sale on Amazon.
