The primary goal of Dr. Holmberg's treatment approach is to minimize oxidative stressors on the gastrointestinal system that are causing tissue damage and ultimately promote and maintain remission. Therapies work to heal the intestinal mucosa and prevent any further damage and can be used in conjunction with conventional therapies to achieve remission. A number of clinical trials support up to a 75% response rate of symptom stability or remission with complementary therapies [1], and certain herbal therapies show similar efficacy to mesalazine but are much better tolerated [2]. A large focus is also placed on minimizing symptoms during flare-ups and preventing nutrient deficiencies that are common to IBD patients.

A complete overview of the diet is done, as certain dietary approaches have been shown to achieve remission rates as successfully as current medications in Crohn's disease. Assessments to identify food sensitivities may be warranted, and the removal of inflammatory foods and inorganic micro-particles is encouraged. Evaluating the beneficial and possible detrimental bacteria via comprehensive stool analysis can often provide insight into how to reset the terrain of the microbiome (which new research suggests can largely influence IBD onset and remission). Dietary adjustments, botanicals, vitamins, and minerals are the most common therapies used, but a personalized approach to specific needs is taken with every patient.