Colitis Management Solution - T - Kristen Lambe

Prévia do material em texto

Colitis Management
Solution
 
The Ultimate Colitis Diet &
Treatment Guide For
Overcoming Colitis
Permanently!
 
 
Table Of Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1: All About Colitis
Chapter 2: Diagnosis & Symptoms
Chapter 3: Treatment Options: Medications
Chapter 4: Dietary Adjustment
Chapter 5: Lifestyle Modifications & Herbal Remedies
Conclusion
 
Introduction
 
I would like to take a moment to say thank you and congratulations
for downloading the book, “Colitis Management Solution: The
Ultimate Colitis Diet & Treatment Guide For Overcoming Colitis
Permanently!”
Inside this book you will discover how to treat and overcome colitis.
The proven strategies in this book will also help eliminate other
irritating symptoms that are often associated with colitis such as
diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating.
Disclaimer: this book has been written for informational purposes
only, and is not meant to replace a doctor’s prescriptions and
advice.
Thanks again for downloading this book, I hope you enjoy it!
 
Chapter 1: All About Colitis
 
Colitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the
colon, the lower end of the digestive tract. It affects millions of
people around the world. It can cause ulcerations or injuries to the 
lining of the colon. This condition mainly affects the colon or the 
terminal portion of the large intestines. The inner lining becomes 
inflamed and symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea 
occur. 
The Colon
The digestive tract is composed of a very long tube divided into
several regions. Each region has its own distinct anatomy and
physiology. The tract starts in the mouth, proceeds down the
esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, rectum and
finally the anus, which is the opening on the lower end of the tract.
Colitis involves the large intestines, particularly the colon. This
portion is also called the large bowel.
The main function of the colon is for the collection and temporary
storage of waste products of the digestive process. The leftovers of
the digestive process are in liquid form and technically not
completely composed of waste materials. It contains water and
important electrolytes that the body can still harness for use. The
liquid substance (of digestive leftovers) combines with the mucus
and bacteria (normal flora) in the colon. Water and electrolytes are
reabsorbed by the colon and delivered into the blood for circulation.
The rest becomes more solid because of the removal of some of the
water. This, then, becomes the formed stool ready for excretion.
The colon has several layers that make up its wall. It has a layer of
outer epithelial cells that surround the entire tract. It has a middle
layer of smooth muscles, where nerve and blood supply are located.
This layer is responsible for the regulation of the peristaltic
movement (wave-like and propulsive) of the intestines. The
innermost layer is the mucosal layer. This layer lines the tube or
the large intestines. It is the layer directly in contact with the
undigested food and waste products. Water and electrolytes are
absorbed by this layer. This layer is also the area where the
inflammation related to colitis occurs. Hence, when this layer gets
inflamed, the absorption of water and electrolytes is lessened.
These are instead expelled, at a much faster rate due to the
concurring diarrhea. The body becomes more prone to dehydration
and electrolyte imbalances as a result.
Chronic inflammation can also erode the mucus lining of the large
intestines. The tissues may be damaged and become eroded due to
the immune cells’ attacks, lack of blood supply, exposure to
harmful chemicals or from the presence of infection. Erosion of the
lining becomes ulcerations or areas of injuries that may eventually
bleed. Stools can have bright red, fresh blood with each bowel
movement or there may be occult (hidden) blood in the stool.
Bleeding may become severe, resulting to hemorrhage. The blood
loss will further become complicated and lead to anemia and
possibly a serious case of hemorrhagic shock.
Causes
The cause of colitis determines its type. Recent studies have found
a link to genetics. There are certain genes that when passed on can
cause autoimmune disorders wherein the colon can become
affected. The immune system has also been linked to the
development of colitis. The body’s immune cells are triggered for
release and, for still unknown reasons, targets and destroys the 
normal, healthy cells in the lining of the colon. Food, stress and 
other disease conditions are some of the factors found to trigger 
this autoimmune response. Stress, for example, does not cause 
colitis symptoms. It is found to cause inflammation in the body and 
trigger flare-ups or appearance and worsening of colitis symptoms. 
The inflammation of the lining of the colon can also be caused by
several other factors. It can be due to infection that attacks and
destroys the intestinal lining. Decreased or loss of the normal blood
circulation supplying the lining of the colon can trigger a local
inflammatory response. The presence of other inflammatory bowel
disease can worsen and cause inflammation to the colon.
Types
Inflammation of the lining of the large intestines, particularly the
colon, can come from different causes.
Ulcerative Colitis
This is one of the inflammatory bowel diseases, which is chronic in
nature. Among all types of colitis, ulcerative colitis is the most
common. The leading factor linked to this type is an autoimmune
disorder. The body’s own immune cells target and destroy the lining
of the large intestines.
Normally, there are colonies of bacteria in the large intestines,
which help it perform most of its functions. This normal bacterial
flora helps in the absorption of certain substances like electrolytes,
digest some food materials, and in the synthesis of important
substances like vitamin K and Vitamin D conversion. The immune
system recognizes these bacterial floras as a pathogen, a threat. The
lymphocytes are sent to the lining of the large intestines, where the
bacteria are. The immune cells kill the bacteria and this leads to an
inflammatory response within this area. The damage usually starts
in the rectum and progress into the area of the colon.
If the inflammation affects the rectum and lower portion of the
colon, it is classified as proctosigmoiditis. Beginning at the rectum
and affecting the colon’s left portion, it is classified as left-sided
colitis. Total colitis occurs when the entire length of the large
intestines become inflamed.
Pseudomembranous Colitis
This is an inflammatory condition caused by bacteria, Clostridium
difficile. This bacterium is part of the colon’s normal flora. With
antibiotic use, the normal balance of the bacterial population is
altered, causing an overgrowth of C. difficile. It produces a toxin
that causes damage to the colon’s lining and trigger diarrheal
symptoms. Stool in this case is less likely to become bloody.
Infectious Colitis
From the term, the inflammation is caused by an infection in the
digestive tract. Most common are viruses and bacteria that cause
food poisoning.Bacteria commonly found to cause it are Shigella
sp., E. coli and Salmonella.
Parasites are also linked to colitis. They can cause diarrhea and
inflammation in the colon. Example is Giardia sp., which can be
acquired through the ingestion of contaminated water.
Ischemic Colitis
Ischemia is the decreased or loss of adequate blood supply to the
tissues, resulting to decreased oxygen and nutrient supply. The
tissues respond by initiating an inflammatory cascade. When this
happens in the colon, it is termed as ischemic colitis.
Loss of blood supply may be due to narrowing of the blood vessels
supplying the colon related to atherosclerosis (fatty deposits on the
walls of the blood vessels). It can also be from a volvulus. This is a
condition where in a portion of the intestines twists round itself.
Another way that the colon may lose blood supplyis through an
incarcerated hernia. An out pouching of the abdominal wall
(hernia) forms and a portion of the large intestines becomes
trapped in it. Conditions that can cause a significant drop in the
blood pressure can cause inadequate blood supply to the colon. This
includes shock, dehydration and anemia.
Ischemia causes pain. In the large intestines, it also causes fever
and bloody diarrhea.
Chemical Colitis
Chemicals instilled in the large intestines can cause damage to the
lining. This will set off inflammation and trigger colitis. Harsh
chemicals during enema or diagnostic procedures are examples.
Microscopic Colitis
Microscopic colitis is a rare illness. The few cases of this frequently
involved older women. The exact cause is unknown. Experts believe
that an autoimmune abnormality is likely linked to it.
This type of colitis can be lymphocytic or collagenous, depending on
which is found in abundant amounts in the lining of the colon. The
most common symptom of microscopic colitis is diarrhea that is
non-bloody and watery.
 
 
Risk Factors
Colitis can happen to almost anyone, depending on the type. People
who do not practice good hygiene and proper sanitation are at an
increased risk for infectious colitis. People taking antibiotics are
also at great risk for pseudomembranous colitis. Long-term and
improper antibiotics use can destroy the balance of the normal
bacterial flora of the gut, which can cause colitis, among others.
Chemotherapy and immunosuppressants can also destroy the
normal flora and predispose a person to colitis
(pseudomembranous).
People have a higher chance of developing ischemic colitis if they
are at risk for cardiovascular diseases. Those who have heart failure
and low blood pressure are also likely to develop this type of colitis.
People over 50 years old and those who had abdominal surgery
have higher possibilities of losing adequate blood supply to the
colon.
Ulcerative colitis is linked to an autoimmune disorder. The risks for
ulcerative colitis include a family history of this type of condition,
of Caucasian or Jewish descent, and between 15 and 30 or 60 and
80 years of age.
 
 
Chapter 2: Diagnosis & Symptoms
 
The diagnosis of colitis involves careful consideration and
observation of activities and its relation to the appearance of
symptoms.
Diagnosis
Diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating are the usual symptoms of
colitis. These can be caused by several other health conditions other
than colitis. A careful documentation and history taking is
necessary in order for colitis to be suspected.
History Taking
The examiner will ask about certain factors about the pain and
diarrhea. The pain must be recurrent and are always related to
diarrhea. The pain must be over the lower abdomen or over the area
where the colon lies. It should also be at its peak just before a loose
bowel movement and subsides immediately after. Travel history is
also taken into account. Ingestion of unsafe or non-bottled water is
also considered. These are to rule out the possibility of infectious
diarrhea, rather than colitis. It can also be used as a basis for
diagnosing the type of colitis present.
Health history is taken. Family incidence of colitis is asked, to
determine if the person has an increased risk for this condition. The
risk or presence of cardiovascular diseases is assessed, to determine
if there is a possibility of having ischemic colitis. Smoking history,
as well as alcohol use is also taken into account.
Physical Assessment
The abdomen is the focus of physical assessment. Areas of
tenderness and indications of the presence of masses and enlarged
organs (i.e., kidneys, liver and spleen) are also assessed. This will
indicate if the pain and tenderness follow the area covered by the
colon. Also, this will reveal any indication of complications arising
from the condition. Rectal examination is also necessary. A finger is
inserted into the rectum to feel for any mass, lumps or tumor.
The stool is examined for consistency and color, to rule out any
indication of other diarrheal diseases like cholera and amoebiasis.
It is also necessary to check for indications of bleeding like the
appearance of gross blood or black stool (indicating internal
bleeding).
Vital signs are taken as a guide prior to testing. This parameter
includes pulse, blood pressure, temperature and respiratory rate.
Abnormalities in the vital signs can indicate a developing
complication. Low blood pressure with high pulse rate can indicate
hemorrhage, especially when it occurs with blood in the stools.
Laboratory & Diagnostic Tests
The best way to check for colitis is to visualize the colon. This can
be done through a colonoscopy. A flexible tube is inserted into the
rectum. The tube has a lighted camera at the end and connected to a
screen to show the inside of the colon.
Other ways to visualize the lining of the colon are abdominal MRI,
CT scan and x-ray, and barium enema. MRI and CT scans can help
visualize areas that are inflamed. These look larger than the rest of
the intestines. Some may even appear darker on the viewing plates.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with colitis occur during flares. Diarrhea
and stomach cramps can be from a host of conditions other than
colitis. To differentiate, a true colitis flare is the occurrence of
diarrhea that is bloody, often with (but can also be without) white
mucus. This characteristic signify that the colon is inflamed (hence,
the diarrhea) and irritated (the mucus in the stool). Peristalsis in
the colon becomes erratic. The contents of the colon are propelled
outward at a rate faster than normal. Water is not reabsorbed in the
colon: hence, the stool becomes watery. Blood appears in the stool 
when the lining of the colon becomes eroded due to chronic 
inflammation. The eroded portions bleed and the blood goes out 
with the stool. 
Colitis flare is also characterized as the following:
Abdominal cramps or pain that ranges from moderate to
severe, which is unresponsive to ordinary medications for
pain and spasms.
There may be gross bleeding (i.e., red blood oozing or
smearing) coming from the rectum or blood is observed
in the stool.
Signs of dehydration from diarrhea
Indications of nutritional deficiencies from recurrent and
severe colitis flares
The muscle layers of the colon become spastic in the presence of
inflammation. The result is a colicky type of pain over the lower
abdomen. The pain is intermittent, or it comes and goes. Pain
occurs when the muscle layers of the colon contracts and it goes
away when the muscles relax. It is most often felt over the lower
abdomen, but can occur over other areas traversed by the colon.
Usually, the pain builds up and ends with diarrhea. After defecation,
pain usually subsides.
There are also symptoms seen outside of the digestive functioning.
It is often associated to what triggered the flare up.
Fever
It may be from an infection, which can also be the cause of the
flare of colitis symptoms. Fever may also be the body’s
response to the inflammation present in the large intestines.
Malaise
Fatigue
Chills
This may be due to the fever, muscle spasms or the
consequent health problems resulting from the inflammation,
diarrhea, dehydration or nutritional deficiencies.
Dehydration (as a result of diarrhea)
Dehydration results from diarrhea. Water is not absorbed
properly in the large intestines due to the erratic peristaltic
movement. Signs that dehydration is already occurring
include:
Decreased urine output
Weakness
Tenting of the skin
Rapid heart beat
lightheadedness
Colitis can also affect other organs. Usually, systemic
manifestations are a result of the nutritional deficiencies and other
abnormalities that occur due to the inflamed lining of the colon.
Iritis (inflammation of the eyes)
Pyoderma gangrenosum (type of inflammation of the
skin)
Aphthous ulcer (canker sores found on the mouth)
Swelling of the joints
 
 
 
Chapter 3: Treatment Options: MedicationsThere is no definite treatment for colitis. Medical management
mostly focuses on the alleviation of any symptoms that can surface.
The overall goal is to induce remissions (periods of no symptoms)
and maintain the remissions for longer periods. The quality of life
is only aimed to be improved, as well as to minimize the side effects
of drug treatments. Colitis needs to be promptly managed because
having colitis greatly increases the risk for developing colon cancer.
Mild to moderate colitis is promptly treated with aminosalicylates
to quickly relieve inflammation in the intestines. Topical 5-ASA
compounds like sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) and olsalazine
(Dipentum) are the common aminosalicylates used. They need
direct contact on the inflamed tissues.
Steroid medications are also given if the symptoms are severe or
persist despite the aminosalicylates. They provide systemic anti-
inflammatory effect.
Immunomodulators can be given to suppress the autoimmune
factor of colitis. They either suppress the proteins that signal the
inflammatory cascade or reduce the amount of immune cells
produced and released. Commonly used immunomodulators are
azathioprine (Imuran), methotrexate (Rheumatrex or Trexall) and
cyclosporine (Neoral).
Severe flares are best controlled with corticosteroids. While there
may be problems associated with corticosteroid use (like increased
risk for infection), it is the fastest way to stop colitis flares.
Examples are budesonide and prednisone.
Dehydration can be a severe complication during flares. Hydration
is most important to maintain at this point. Replace the amount of
fluid lost during diarrheal bowel movement. Add more to the daily
fluid requirement (2 liters per day) to adequately replace what is
lost during flares. Hydration is primarily through the intake of oral
fluids. It is best to drink fluids that contain electrolytes, which is
also lost in diarrhea. If oral fluids are not tolerated (i.e., cannot
drink), IV fluids may be administered.
 
Chapter 4: Dietary Adjustment
Diet modification is the best and most effective way of controlling
colitis symptoms. Reducing irritants and triggers are important to
reduce the frequency and severity of flares. However, diet and the 
type of foods consumed do not cause colitis. Foods can be triggers 
and can affect the severity and progression of colitis symptoms. It 
should be carefully evaluated. During flares, known and possible 
food triggers are avoided to decrease the severity of the symptoms. 
Normal food intake can be resumed during remissions. 
Diet Plan
Meals should be spaced at 5 to 6 small ones throughout the day.
This puts less pressure and workload on the digestive tract, as
compared to eating 3 large meals a day. Small meals are easier to
digest. During flares, a liquid diet is best. It lets the bowels rest
because no solid parts are left to enter the intestines.
Even with food restrictions during flares, it is important to take
note of the nutritional status. Inflammation of the colon lining
results in poor absorption of water and electrolytes. The increased
peristalsis propels water and food fast through the digestive tract.
These stay in the tract for a shorter period, leaving less time for
adequate absorption of water, electrolytes and vitamins. Hence, diet
should be able to supply adequate nutrition, while keeping triggers
at a minimum.
Meals should provide adequate complex carbohydrates, high in
protein, as well as in good type of fats and whole grains. Meats,
poultry, fish, cereals, breads, good oils fruits and vegetables should
all be present in the daily food intake.
Bland foods are also great during colitis flares because they do not
contain any spices or condiments that can be potential irritants,
which worsen the symptoms.
Low residue diet is sometimes effective in controlling flares and
preventing it from recurring. This includes foods that are low in
fiber, non-dairy products, no caffeine and no alcohol.
Low fat diet is also effective in reducing the severity of flares.
Greasy foods are avoided. Cooking uses the least amount of oils.
Natural healthy oils like omega-3 fats are not excluded in this type
of diet.
Diets high in refined sugars and saturated fats are linked to the
development of colitis and in the triggering of flares in those
already affected.
Foods To Avoid
It is important to know that food triggers differ from person to
person. The following list contains the most common food types
that are known to cause irritation to the digestive tract.
Caffeine
Coffee, chocolates and other foods that contain caffeine are
avoided. Some people report that colitis symptoms are
triggered or observed to worsen when consuming these.
Caffeine is a digestive stimulant. It is known to cause
contractions and spasms in the intestines when consumed.
Consuming it during flares can increase the irritation on the
lining of the gastrointestinal tract, worsening the symptoms.
High fiber
Some people observe that the GI (gastrointestinal) symptoms
worsen when eating high fiber meals. Fiber-rich foods are
bulk-forming foods. The more bulk formed in the large
intestines, the more irritated the lining becomes. Also, fibers
prolongs the period by which food stays in the large intestines.
During flares, this is not a good idea because the linings are
exposed to irritation for a longer time.
They are recommended to follow a low-fiber diet or a low-
residue one. Fiber intake is limited to only 10 to 15 grams a
day. Diarrheal episodes are decreased and peristalsis
stabilizes.
Foods to avoid in this category include:
Raw vegetables
Dried berries and fruits
Fruits that have seeds or pulps
The coatings of the seeds and pulps contain hard fibers
that are difficult to digest. They have longer transit times
in the GI tract. The longer they stay, the more irritation
they cause.
Nuts and butters with nuts
Popcorn
The hull (hard part) is difficult to digest.
Carbonated drinks
Carbonated drinks like sodas can cause gas formation in the
GI tract. Increased gas can worsen bloating. It can increase the
pressure in the abdominal region, which can put more strain
on the GI tract. Inflammation can also worsen as the
carbonated beverages reacts within the intestines.
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause irritation on the linings of the GI tract and
worsen symptoms.
Dairy products
This becomes a problem with people who are lactose
intolerant. Also, low residue diets limit intake on milk and
dairy products because they are known to cause irritation to
the GI tract at some level. Milk and most dairy products
contain proteins that are harder to digest than most other
proteins. Foods difficult to digest can put strain and cause
irritation to the GI tract.
Peas, legumes and beans
These vegetables are high in fiber. Beans, most especially, are
gas-forming foods. Increasing gas in the GI tract worsens
pain, bloating and irritation.
If removing beans from the diet is not an option, try to make a
few adjustments. Rinse canned beans with ample amounts of
water. The cover of beans can be removed to lessen the fiber
content.
Foods with sulfate or sulfur
These substances are irritating to the mucosal lining of the
intestines.
Peppers and hot sauce
Spicy foods and sauces
Meats
Proteins in some meats can cause inflammation.
Sorbitol-containing products like sugar-free sweets like
gum and candies
Refined sugar
Fats
Good fats like omega-3 are great to include in the diet.
However, the bad ones are best to steer clear from. Greasy
foods can worsen diarrhea. They can also cause gas and
bloating.
How the food is cooked can also be a source of irritation and
inflammation. Avoid raw foods because they are likely to contain
irritants, like chemicals used during its growth. Avoid using too
much oil during the cooking process. Greasy foods are irritants.
Best ways of cooking foods during flares are steaming, boiling and
baking.
Foods & Supplements to Include
Eat fruits that are rich in antioxidants. This includes tomatoes,cherries and other berries like blueberries.
Add more vegetables that are also high in antioxidants. Remember
to cook them. Examples of vegetables to include are bell peppers
and squash.
Add more folate in your diet. Medications like sulfazaline can
decrease the body’s ability to absorb folate. Low folate in the body
can cause anemia and other blood problems.
Eat more foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oils
(especially from coldwater fishes) are the best sources of this
healthy oil. Omega-3 fatty acid is known to reduce inflammation in
the body. It has also been shown to reduce the symptoms and the
frequency of flare-ups. Caution needs to be taken when taking fish
oil supplements and anti-coagulant medication like heparin and
warfarin.
Eat foods that are high in vitamin C. It has been found that high
vitamin C intake reduces the frequency of flares. There are also
longer remissions for people who take vitamin C. Sample foods are
berries and citrus fruits.
Take probiotics daily. These “good bacteria” help to regulate the
digestive bacterial flora. Examples are foods that contain
Lactobaccillus and Bifidobacteria. There are yogurt preparations
that contain live microorganisms that can be eaten as snacks
throughout the day. These good bacteria help keep the intestinal
bacterial flora flourishing and keep the pathogenic ones to a
minimum.
Vitamin D supplements are necessary for strong bones. Though it
does not directly affect colitis and its symptoms, it is necessary to
prevent complications. Inflamed intestines have less capability to
convert and absorb vitamin D. Osteoporosis may result as a
complication of colitis.
Calcium supplements are also added. Eat foods that are high in
calcium, but try to avoid dairy sources. Dark green leafy vegetables
like kale cooked adequately can provide the daily calcium
requirements.
 
Chapter 5: Lifestyle Modifications & Herbal
Remedies
 
Other than medications and diet, people suffering from colitis can
self-manage their symptoms and prevent future flares. Here are
some of the recommended herbal remedies and lifestyle
modifications that can help manage colitis.
Lifestyle
Reduce stress. It has been found to be strongly associated with
the occurrence of flares. Emotional stress should be avoided or at
least kept to a minimum.
Meditation, yoga and tai chi
These are exercises that people who suffer from colitis can
engage in. they help clear the mind of the daily worries and
stresses. The movements (like in yoga and tai chi), in addition
to the controlled breathing techniques involved can help
release the stress. These also help to improve oxygenation to
the vital organs and different body tissues. Blood circulation is
also improved. Aside from the reduction of stress, meditation,
tai chi and yoga also improve the overall health.
Biofeedback
This is a method of stress reduction wherein the person is
taught how to control the physical responses to stress.
Physical responses include rapid heartbeats and muscle
tension. Awareness of stress is basic in this method. The
person should be aware of the changes that occur when
exposed to stress. For example, when the muscles start to
tense, it is an indication that the body is getting stressed.
Controlled breathing and stretching exercises are performed
to reduce the stress immediately.
Deep breathing exercises
This is the simplest and easiest stress-reduction technique.
Use the diaphragm when breathing in for full lung expansion.
Then slowly exhale. This exercise promotes good oxygenation;
and cells that are better oxygenated are less likely to be
affected by stress. The expansion of the diaphragm can also
help strengthen the abdominal muscles to some extent.
Stronger abdominal muscles are better able to support the
intestines and regulate peristalsis.
Progressive muscle relaxation
This technique is increasingly becoming popular. Specific 
muscle groups are contracted then relaxed in series. It can be 
done anywhere, any time to reduce stress and be relaxed. 
Aerobic exercises
It can help with the overall health and prevent complications.
Walking is the best exercise. Brisk walking daily for at least 15
minutes has been found to greatly improve the colitis
symptoms. Apart from it, it also improves the general health.
Even with flares, exercise is recommended. Perform exercises
that can be well tolerated. Seek the advice of a doctor for the
best type of exercise suited for the overall health condition.
Herbal Remedies
Psyllium seeds
Taking psyllium seeds have been found to prolong remissions,
especially when taking the drug mesalamine. It enhances the
motility in the gut, reducing the severity of diarrhea. It can
ease constipation and improves the overall rate of waste
elimination by the GI tract.
This is an insoluble fiber that must be taken only after seeking
a doctor’s advice. Fibers have been shown to increase the
severity of colitis symptoms.
Bromelain
It contains proteolytic enzymes that reduce the occurrence 
and severity of colitis flares. It is available in supplement 
form. Check with the doctor before using because it may cause 
undesirable drug-herb interaction when taken with other 
drugs. 
Boswellia
Boswellia is a medicinal herb that has been found to have
anti-inflammatory effects in the body. It is a resin obtained
from the bark of a tree, Boswellia serrata. The compound acts 
by inhibiting the chemical cascade involved in the 
inflammatory process. 
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a chemical that has anti-
inflammatory effects. It helps decrease the inflammation in
the colon and relieve discomfort. Turmeric is a spice though,
so it is best to use during remissions. Use during flares may
aggravate the situation because of the other substances that
can irritate the mucosal lining of the intestines.
Chamomile
Chamomile is an herbal remedy, long been used to soothe
digestive problems. Chamomile is most often taken as a warm
tea to relieve problems with the stomach and intestines.
Recommended use is by adding about 3 teaspoons (3 to 4
grams) of chamomile tea leaves to a cup of hot water. Strain
and cool before drinking. In a day, drink 3 cups of chamomile
tea.
Marshmallow root
This is used for its demulcent properties. Demulcent refers to
the ability to reduce the inflammation of the intestinal lining
by promoting more mucus production. The mucus coats the
intestinal lining, providing a barrier against irritants. This is
taken in the form of tea. Recommended use is by adding 2 to 5
grams of dried marshmallow leaf or 5 grams of dried
marshmallow root to a cup of boiling water then steep for a
few minutes. Drink 1 cup 3 times a day. People who suffer
from diabetes should avoid this herbal remedy, as it may
cause more problems with blood sugar regulation.
Slippery elm
This herbal remedy also has demulcent properties. It provides
protection to the irritated tissues of the intestines. The mucus
barrier it stimulates allows the damaged tissues to heal. It is
available in powder supplemental form. Mix about 1 teaspoon
of slippery elm powder with a cup of hot water. Drink this
preparation about 3 to 4 times a day. To get the medical
benefits, about 60 to 320 grams of slippery elm should be
taken each day.
Food triggers differ in every person so the foods listed here may or
may not be beneficial to certain individuals. In order for the self-
management of colitis to be most effective through diet, you should
keep a food diary. Every day, list down all the foods, the ingredients
and how they were prepared. Whenever colitis flares occur, record it
in the food diary. Then bring the diary to the doctor. The occurrence
of each flare episode will be correlated to the type of foods recently
consumed prior to the episode. A pattern will be identified, on
which foods were linked to the flares. It is still best to work with a
doctor and keep a detailed account of the food consumed.
It also important for you to include the type of activities done prior
to experiencingflares. Stress is strongly liked to colitis episodes.
Finding out what stress levels trigger flares can help the sufferer be
aware of which activities to stay away from or at least limit.
 
Conclusion
 
Thank you again for downloading this book! 
I hope this book was able to help you understand exactly what
colitis is and how you can treat the condition.
The next step is to take action and start implementing strategies in
the book.
Finally, if you enjoyed this book, please take the time to share your
thoughts and post a review on Amazon. It’d be greatly appreciated!
Thank you and good luck!
Kristen Lambe
	Introduction
	Chapter 1: All About Colitis
	Chapter 2: Diagnosis & Symptoms
	Chapter 3: Treatment Options: Medications
	Chapter 4: Dietary Adjustment
	Chapter 5: Lifestyle Modifications & Herbal Remedies
	Conclusion