As of now, there is no definitive cure for ulcerative colitis or UC, a chronic disease of the large intestine (colon) in which inflammation brought on by a vulnerable immune response creates sores or ulcers in the lining of the colon.
The chronic condition affects more 800,000 Americans and recent research shows that “westernized” populations and people with diets high in fat are at higher risk for UC. But no one has yet discovered the main source of the disease.
Treatments for ulcerative colitis include medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, and steroids to control inflammation and other symptoms of the condition. Removing the colon and rectum has also been favored by physicians as another form of treatment if medication doesn’t prove effective.
Still, there are other treatments worth exploring. Research shows that there are a number of effective natural treatments for colitis that include exercise, stress reduction techniques (tai chi and yoga), and a vegan or vegetarian diet full of foods with soluble fiber have all been named as beneficial to managing UC symptoms.
Herbal therapy is also an alternative. The list of herbs that work best include:
- Aloe vera gel
- Butyrate
- Tormentil extract
- Wheatgrass juice
- Curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric)
It’s also important to avoid foods that may aggravate symptoms. Because a healthy diet is imperative for overall health, it’s no surprise most homeopathic specialists suggest this common sense practice for a treatment alternative.
According to a review published in October 2014 in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, people who reported a diet high in fats were more likely to have a relapse of UC. Other studies highlighted in the paper suggested avoiding greasy foods, dairy products, caffeine, and raw fruits and vegetables if you have ulcerative colitis.
Stress has also been linked to inflaming UC symptoms. with relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation to help your body relax.
Consider Therapy to Help Manage Stress and Pain
Working with a therapist on certain mind-body techniquescan help you control ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and a technique called biofeedback may be useful, as these processes teach skills to cope with stress and pain. In CBT, you learn to recognize and change behaviors and emotions that affect you physically. According to an article published in September 2012 in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, CBT can ease abdominal pain for some people. Biofeedback will teach you how to identify and control some bodily processes, such as heart rate or tension in your muscles, and can be effective in helping manage chronic pain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Could Ease Symptoms
As part of a healthy diet, additional omega-3 fatty acids, the healthy fats found in foods like fatty fish, may keep inflammation at bay and ease ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Though research results vary, Snider notes that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation holds promise for people with IBD and other inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis. A review article published in the January–March 2016 issue of the Annals of Gastroenterology notes that omega-3s may also reduce proinflammatory cytokines, which cause systemic inflammation. The authors found that more studies are needed to establish a recommended daily intake to prevent or induce remission in UC patients.
Overall, although there is no sole cure for the condition, there are several options for sufferers to greatly alleviate painful symptoms.
Jasmine Browley holds an MA in journalism from Columbia College Chicago, and has contributed to Ebony, Jet and MADE Magazine among others. So, clearly, she knows some stuff. Follow her digital journey @JasmineBrowley.
