Crohn’s Disease is an inflammation of the small intestine but it can affect any part of the digestive tract, including the mouth and stomach.  It has symptoms that are very similar to colitis.

Bouts of abdominal pain and cramping with diarrhea occur and may be emotionally debilitating.  The intestine becomes scarred which leads to a decreased ability to absorb nutrients.

Complications of Crohn’s disease are anemia, which occurs due to intestinal bleeding, the formation of holes, or fistulas, between the intestines and other organs and intestinal blockage.

Diagnosis of Crohn’s disease must rule out other causes of cramping and diarrhea including acute infections, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.

Part of the underlying cause of Crohn’s disease may be an autoimmune reaction.  This is when the body attacks its own cells.  Other causes include low dietary fibre, high dietary sugar, high refined carbohydrate intake, food allergies, stress, unresolved emotional conflicts, parasitic infection and antibiotic use.

Conventional treatment of Crohn’s disease involves the use of anti-inflammatory medications.  Although these medications decrease the symptoms they do not address the root cause of the problem.  They may also contribute to nutrient deficiencies.

Dietary change is often the only way to completely resolve the symptoms.  Eliminate all processed and refined foods from the diet.  Also avoid any food that you are sensitive to.

Give your body a digestive rest and cleansing by going on a liquid diet for a few days.  Consume only alkalinizing juices such as carrot, apple, grape and pineapple.

Gradually add solid foods focusing on complex carbohydrates as a source of water-soluble fibre and vitamins and minerals.  Drink lots of filtered water to flush the intestines.

Consume fermented products like yogurt, kefir, quark, buttermilk and natural cheeses to replenish the friendly bacteria that assist with nutrient digestion.

Food to consume: predominantly vegetarian diet, raw vegetables and fruits, whole grains, brown rice, potatoes, carrots, turnips, soy products and green drinks.  Use water-soluble fibres like chicory root, oat bran or apple pectin.  Broil or bake fish and meats instead of frying.  Steam vegetables lightly.

Tackling the emotional aspects of Crohn’s disease should also be undertaken.  Reducing stress and increasing exercise promotes proper bowel functioning.  Abdominal massage and hydrotherapy can be helpful in the healing stages of Crohn’s disease.

The following list of supplements can be used for preventing and treating Crohn’s disease.  Adult doses are given.  Start supplementation of one product at a time so that if any product is irritating it can be easily identified.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).