|
Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease and colitis are forms of inflammation
of the small and large intestines. Natural treatments can prevent bad episodes, remove the need for surgery, and cure many cases. It is a complex problem, and treatment time, effort and cost
will vary.
Symptoms range from cramps and
diarrhea to passing blood. Even moderate forms are debilitating
and disabling. In the most severe stages it can be life-threatening,
with need for surgery or aggressive medication, such as cortisone.
Natural treatments can prevent bad episodes, remove the need for
surgery, and cure many cases. It is a complex problem, and treatment
time, effort and cost will vary quite a lot.
The
role of nerves and stress is huge. The gut reaction to stress is
to slow digestion and narrow the blood vessels in the belly, forcing
blood out to the limbs and head for the "fight or flight" response.
This means less nutrition and oxygen to the gut for repair and healing.
Counselling can help a person make changes at work and home that
will create more healing conditions.
Food
allergies and intolerances can be a major factor. The most common
reaction is eggs, but wheat and dairy are also often seen as a cause.
An elimination diet with low impact foods may be prescribed. Screening
tests for food sensitivities are very useful, and I will offer them
if I detect a particular pattern from a traditional Chinese pulse
analysis. Traditional nature cure will use a juice diet temporarily.
Foods with carageenan must be avoided - such as cheap ice cream,
and some cottage cheese brands. Smoking is very bad for the gut
circulation, and is especially deadly with Crohn's. Homeopathic
medicines are often of service. These dilute medicines work with
the healing intelligence of the body. They do no harm.
Acupuncture
is extraordinary in colitis. Many doctors consider it only a pain-reliever,
but it readjusts the nervous system's controls on blood flow and
muscle tone. This can be curative in bowel diseases. Very fine needles
are placed in the tummy, legs and feet, hands, ears, etc. People
may fear needles because they have been hurt by big hypodermics,
but these are fine as hairs and are quite tolerable. Most people
will exclaim that they wish they had tried it sooner, as it is actually
quite relaxing and pleasant.
Once
the acute symptoms are relieved, lifestyle changes are key to preventing
another episode. Stress management should emphasize both relaxation
and exercise. A wholesome diet high in natural fiber can be curative,
but there are details only professional advice can provide.
|
Health Info 