Natural Remedies for Colitis

Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the large intestine and rectum. Colitis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain and cramps, bloody or persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding and weight loss. It also can cause inflation of the eyes, skin and joints.

There is no cure for colitis, but there are a number of natural remedies for colitis that can help to ease the symptoms of some sufferers. If you have colitis, talk to your doctor before trying any natural remedy.

Probiotics. Probiotic supplements are one of the most popular natural remedies for colitis. Probiotics are the "beneficial" or "good" bacteria in the digestive system that help to control harmful bacteria, reduce inflammation and strengthen the mucus lining of the intestines. Studies have shown that regular use of probiotic supplements reduces colon inflammation for many colitis patients.

Aloe Vera Juice or Gel. Some colitis sufferers swear by aloe vera juice or gel taken orally as a natural colitis remedy. Studies have shown aloe vera to be beneficial to the immune system and it is considered one of the best natural colon cleansers as well as an effective anti-inflammatory.

Diet. The role that diet plays in colitis is unclear. However, some studies suggest that high consumption of carbohydrates, meat and alcohol may contribute to chronic colitis. Some experts believe that sugars in carbohydrates may drive growth of harmful bacteria and yeast in the intestines and that sulfur in red meat and alcohol may be a trigger for colitis flare-ups. Some colitis sufferers find that taking gelatin (or eating jello) and pectin helps to ease their symptom when colitis strikes.

Track What You Eat. One way to determine what foods trigger your colitis flare-ups is to keep track of what you eat in a daily diary. If you are religious about this process, you may be able to identify foods that are catalysts for your colitis attacks. Learning what foods to avoid may help you to minimize the number of colitis flare-ups and their severity.

Drink Plenty of Liquids. If you have colitis, be sure to drink plenty of liquids, especially if you suffer from diarrhea, which can cause dehydration. Water is best. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks like coffee.

Reduce Stress. There is no evidence that stress causes colitis, but it can be aggravate the symptoms of colitis and might even be a trigger for a colitis flare-up. Therefore, take steps to reduce stress, such as meditating or practicing yoga. Also, regular exercise can help to lower stress levels.

Sources:

altmedicine.about.com, Ulcerative Colitis Remedies

missflorence, www.ehow.com, How to Treat Colitis with Home Remedies/eHow.com

www.mayoclinic.com/alternative medicine, Ulcerative colitis: Alternative medicine - MayoClinic.com

www.mayoclinic.com/home remedies, Ulcerative colitis: Lifestyle and home remedies - MayoClinic.com

www.herbwisdom.com, Aloe Vera Benefits & Information