For those dealing with the discomfort and complications that accompany inflammatory bowel diseases such as colitis or Crohn’s disease, it may sometimes seem like relief is out of reach and practical solutions are only presented in the form of invasive surgeries or prescription medications. And while these acute treatment methods certainly have their advantages and a place in the complex scheme of gastrointestinal epidemiology, many patients may also benefit from healthy, natural management solutions. Like many chronic inflammatory, and autoimmune disorders, Crohn’s may present itself in varying degrees of severity. Typically, those affected will experience symptoms differently, and many patients may not have the degree of affliction to warrant the use of say corticosteroids, which may alter endocrine and hormonal signaling, or strictureplasty, which in itself is still no cure for Crohn’s.
Thankfully, there are a few natural and effective symptom management techniques that many sufferers of both colitis and Crohn’s, and even those with less severe gastro conflicts such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation, may find particularly beneficial. Here, we’ll look at a few ways in which symptoms can be managed and discomfort can be alleviated before the intervention of more clinical measures may be required.
Bidets Provide a Gentle and Soothing Solution
With chronic gastro-inflammatory afflictions, many are forced to use the restroom way more than the average person and some may find themselves at the toilet exponentially more often during flare-ups. This means, not only are they experiencing bowel and intestinal discomfort but may also be damaging tissue and skin with harsh, abrasive toilet paper or wipes.
Modern electronic bidet seats and bidet attachments offer a gentle, soothing alternative to wiping and can spell instant relief for those suffering the complications and residual effects of digestive diseases. By washing users with warm or cool water, bidets effectively clean much better than their paper counterparts too, reducing the risks of infection from fissures or bleeding – which are common problems for those who may be wiping too frequently.
With an array of modern bidet options ranging from luxurious spa-like electronic bidet seats, complete with adjustable water temps, heated seats, and multi-temp air dryers for a totally touch-free experience, to affordable and effective bidet attachments, many Crohn’s and colitis patients have found the perfect solution to fit their particular needs and condition.
Aside from being an excellent aid for the management of digestive diseases, the benefits of bidets also extend to feminine hygiene during pregnancy, those with mobility issues, and are a godsend for hemorrhoid sufferers.
Benefits of Anti-inflammatory Supplements
From turmeric to resveratrol, there are an array of over-the-counter supplements being studied for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to help ease the symptoms of Crohn’s flare ups. Since most of the discomfort that patients experience in a flare up is their bodies’ own autoimmune inflammatory responses to stress or the perception of stress – much like asthma or eczema – it may be worth looking into certain natural remedies traditionally proven to help calm the body’s inflammatory responses without the digestive upset common in NSAID medications.
Fish oil is one such solution. This supplement is high in omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which are precursor molecules commonly found in our brains, skin, and retinas and are known to reduce inflammation in the blood. Conclusive scientific evidence is still premature for the exact benefit analysis of marine oils in the remission of Crohn’s disease but there is anecdotal evidence to support its advantages.
Turmeric is another great anti-inflammatory supplement and may also help calm Crohn’s flare ups. This flowering plant from the ginger family has been used in traditional Indian and Southeast Asian cooking for decades, mainly in the form of curry. Turmeric roots contain the chemical Curcumin which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties when consumed as a dietary supplement. While this solution may not work for everyone, it’s generally safe and side effect free for long periods of time.
Support Your Digestive System with Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, which are beneficial to the body in a number of ways. For the digestive system, these microbiomes are beneficial not only in helping to send food through our bodies but also in helping take the stress off our digestive systems by breaking down sugars which can cause inflammation.
For those suffering from Crohn’s disease, these microscopic organisms may help balance and restore a healthy gut biome. Many of those affected by colits and Crohn’s are believed to have an altered microbiome, which likely contributes to the irregular immune responses and inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease. Fermented foods like raw sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and kefir are especially high in helpful probiotic cultures and can be a great asset in easing the symptoms and discomfort associated with inflammatory bowel diseases.
Get to Know Your Doctor
Now that you have a few ideas for naturally managing your Crohn’s or colitis, it’s important you speak with your doctor and come up with a solid treatment protocol to learn how theses methods might be factored into your general well being and existing regiments or medications. Only you and your doctor can determine the correct remission path for your particular and unique needs, but we hope we’ve shed some light on a few easy ways in which you might be able to ease the burden and quiet your digestive dilemmas!