Crohn's & Colitis Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of conditions that inflame the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, making it difficult for the body to break down food, absorb nutrients, and form waste.
Crohn's and Ulcerative colitis are the most common of the two, and both involve symptoms of severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and abdominal pain. Colitis attacks the farthest end of the colon, creating ulcers and sores in the rectal and colonic lining, whereas Crohn's can attack the entire digestive tract, including the mouth. ![]() Acute flare up symptoms may include:
Risk factors for development include recent antibiotic or oral contraceptive pill use, antibiotic exposure in childhood, smoking, urban living, low vitamin D status, and genetics. Also, we see higher incidence in those who has had their appendix removed, formula fed, or delivered by c-section. Diet plays a large role, with high risk of develop in those who eat low fibre/vegetable based diets, or a westernized diet high in animal meats, dairy, and refined sugar. Goals of Treatment: The primary goal of Dr. Holmberg's therapies are to minimize oxidative stressors on the gastrointestinal system that are causing tissue damage, and to 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 complimentary 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 removal of inflammatory foods and inorganic micro-particles are encouraged. Dietary adjustments, botanicals, vitamins, and minerals are the most common therapies used, but a personalize approach to specific needs are taken with every patient. To learn more, please feel free the contact Dr. Holmberg here: 1. Aghdassi, E., Wendland, B. E., Steinhart, A. H., Wolman, S. L., Jeejeebhoy, K. & Allard, J. P. 2003. Antioxidant Vitamin Supplementation in Crohn's Disease Decreases Oxidative Stress: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Gastroenterol, 98, 348A353 PMID 2. Gerhardt,H., Seifert, F., Buvari, P., Vogelsang, H.&Repges,R.2001. Therapy of active Crohn disease with Boswellia serrata extract H 15 . Z Gastroenterol, 39, 11A7. PMID 11215357 |
DigestionCrohns & Colitis
Constipation Food Sensitivities Gas & Bloating Heartburn Irritable Bowel Syndrome Leaky Gut Syndrome SIBO HormonesAcne
Adrenal Fatigue Anxiety/Depression Fibroids Irregular Periods Infertility Menopause Premenstrual Syndrome Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Weight Gain immuneAllergies Autoimmunity Eczema Frequent Colds & Flu |
|
|
© 2018 Courtney Holmberg ND. All rights reserved. Dr. Courtney Holmberg, ND does not endorse or have professional affiliation with any discussed supplement or lab companies. All material provided is for general education and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to assist in diagnosing to treating a medical condition. Legal & Medical Disclaimer, sitemap