Ulcerative Colitis Information

Senna is a natural herb commonly used for its laxative properties. It is an ingredient in several commercial laxative products such as Ex Lax and Senokot. Senna leaves and pods contain compounds called anthraquinones, which are powerful laxatives. Anthraquinones are categorized as stimulant laxatives. They work by aggravating the lining of the lower intestinal tract and causing contractions which gives us the "urge to go" and push out waste. Anthraquinones also absorbs more water, producing a softer stool that makes it easier to pass. Senna laxatives may take 6 hours to 12 hours to work.

Senna should not be used for more than seven consecutive days unless under a doctor's care. Over use can cause lazy bowel syndrome, which causes your body to forget how to produce a bowel movement on its own without the use of more laxatives. Do not use senna or other anthraquinones if you have hemorrhoids, blood vessel disease, stomach ulcers, diverticular disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or any inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal disorders.

Dried senna has an extremely bitter and unpleasant taste. It can also cause painful intestinal cramping due to muscle contractions. It is recommended to combine stimulant herbs such as senna with tasty ones like peppermint, ginger, and fennel, and licorice. In addition to giving senna a more pleasant taste, it relaxes the intestines, lessens the effects of cramping and make senna more tolerable to take. Senna can be found as capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, and dried root. There are also food recipes containing senna that can "get you going."

Senna and Prunes

Boil one ounce of senna leaves gently in one quart of water. Strain off leaves and simmer liquid with one pound of prunes until all or most of liquid has been absorbed. Eat one to three prunes every two to three nights.

Senna Bars

In a food processor mix the following ingredients:

12 oz. raisins
12 oz. dates
12 oz. prunes
8 oz. figs
2 oz. senna leaves or ground senna (in health food stores).

Spread in a greased 8"x12" pan and press down the mixture, about an inch deep. Top with graham cracker crumbs. Cut into 1 x 1 inch bars. Try 1 bar a day to start. You may be able to reduce to 1/2 bar later on. The bars can be frozen.

Once diagnosed with colitis, periods of remission from symptoms can last for months if not years yet there is a high chance that a flare up will happen at some point in time. You should not spend time blaming yourself and becoming stressed as to why it happened. You need to concentrate your thoughts on what action is required to ensure the colitis symptoms are managed and brought under control.

The symptoms that are being experienced will vary in their intensity and extent according to whether the flare up is of a mild or severe nature, which is determined by the degree of ulceration and inflammation of the large colon. Once there is actual confirmation from your doctor that a flare up is occurring, you should be advised on the additional medications that are required to be taken in addition to any that are continually prescribed. It is normally the case to increase any current dosage being taken of anti-inflammatory drugs plus the introduction of steroid treatment either in tablet or enema form, perhaps even both depending on the extent and location of the inflammation.

It is important to note that when taking steroids, side affects often materialise which the patient just has to accept as part of the effective treatment administered. The most common include weight gain, an increase in blood pressure, changes in mood and increased hormonal levels. Furthermore, when the colitis symptoms have begun to recede and normal health re-emerges, it is very important to continue on the steroid course until complete through a prolonged phased withdrawal of the medication. It can sometimes be the case that the prevailing symptoms don't respond sufficiently well to the medication that has been prescribed and thus further action will be called for. This can be the case where there are poor levels of absorption of the medication or the level of dosage is too low to fight the amount of inflammation being experienced. If the flare-up is still not brought under control, different treatments or a combination of treatments may be considered plus also the hospital consultant may wish to undertake further investigation of the bowel area to determine its the actual condition and how it is responding to the treatment.

There are on occasions that some sufferers have a flare up that does not respond to the usual treatment and the symptoms become severely debilitating. This is explained by both the ferocity and extent of the inflammation leading to the next stage of treatment that involves admission to hospital and the use of intravenous steroids to enable the control and reduction of the symptoms. As one of the symptoms is frequent and persistent diarrhea, there is the potential added problem of dehydration though this can be alleviated by intravenous fluid replacement.

Don't be too alarmed as most flare ups, even if the symptoms appear severe, can be treated effectively without having to spend time in hospital. It is just important, essential even, that as soon as a colitis flare up starts to appear it requires to be dealt with effectively and not ignored hoping that it will just disappear. By acting fast, you can increase the chances of suffering less severe symptoms and perhaps painful complications.

Ulcerative colitis, also known as UC, shows up in people of any age. The disease shows up as inflammation in the large intestine with open sores, also known as ulcers. These ulcers usually appear and disappear at random if not treated. Most people who get treatment however can go into periods of remission. What actually causes UC is unknown. There appears to be a genetic component. But environmental triggers often accompany flare-ups of the disease. It may also be an autoimmune disorder according to some research experts. No matter the cause, anyone suffering with the disorder wants treatment as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of ulcerative colitis? The most prevalent and noticeable symptom is diarrhea with blood and mucus. Some people have weight loss as well as abdominal pain and cramps. Some people show signs in other parts of the body. These include ulcers in the mouth, lesions in the skin, clubbing in the fingers, and ulcers on the skin. After years of dealing with UC, patients have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Without health insurance, sufferers likely look at a painful future without much hope of getting better. However, treatment options are available.

What treatments are available for ulcerative colitis? The first line of drugs helps to control the disease and bring it into a remission state. After that, patients take maintenance drugs to stay in remission. Some medications used for treatment and remission include aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive drugs. All of these treatments require ongoing medical monitoring of the disease and remission. That means medical costs will go higher with each passing year of dealing with UC. If you have health insurance, consider switching to an individual policy so you can maintain health care coverage even if you lose your job.

Many people live long health lives after a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. But, most of those success stories come with ongoing medical monitoring and fast treatment of flare-ups. That means you will need good health insurance coverage to cover the costs that come with treatment. Your doctor and specialists are your best allies in fighting the battle against UC. You need your allies available when you have a flare up of the disease. Get health insurance in your life and keep it there with affordable rates. Don't let a chronic condition such as UC dictate the rest of your life. Take charge now and make a difference.

If you need assistance in locating particular coverages at a pre-determined price, we can help you find a Free health insurance quote and save up to 50% on your monthly premium.

The colon is a very important organ that performs a very vital function in the human body. The colon is responsible for eliminating a large bulk of wastes formed from the digestive process, and is sort of the sewerage system in a person. It is thus important to maintain the health of the colon because improperly functioning bowels can cause disastrous problems in the body. Knowing about diseases that the colon may acquire can help in keeping one's colon health in check.

Colon disease vary in their gravity, some may just be mild irritation while others can be a threat to life. The four most common kinds of colon disease include non-cancerous polyps, ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease and Crohn's disease.

Polyps

Colon polyps are basically abnormal growths of tissue that appear in the lining of the colon, protruding into intestine's canal. While polyps are normally not serious, they can develop cancer cells later if not detected early. There are three subtypes of polyps and polyp-related diseases: ordinary polyps, familial adenomatous polposis, and Lynch Syndrome.

Ordinary polyps occur sporadically among people aged 40 to 60. These polyps may progress into cancer within ten years, and thus they are often removed with colonoscopy. Familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP is a hereditary disease that is characterized by the occurrence polyps in the colon by the hundreds or even thousands, with great chances of developing cancer and thus treatment entails removal of the colon. Lynch Syndrome is another hereditary condition that is more common than FAP, although less common than ordinary polyps, and unlike FAP, which occurs as early as age ten, Lynch Syndrome usually appears as late as the 40s or as early as the 20s.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by the inflammation in the mucosa, the deepest lining of the colon or rectum. Ulcers or small open sores would form on the lining's surface, producing blood, pus and mucus. Around 500,000 to about two million people in America suffer this disease and most of the patients are below the age 30.

Ulcerative Colitis usually manifests with abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, fevers, or weight loss. Patients who experience excessive bleeding may also develop anemia and malnutrition, especially for children. The symptoms of this disease can disappear and reappear within months or years.

Diverticular Disease

Some people develop pockets in the walls of their colon, these pockets are called dierticula and their presence is what doctors refer to as diverticulosis while their inflammation is called diverticulitis. Complications can happen when infection reaches diverticula. The pockets may rupture causing bowel blockage or leaking of the bowel wall. Another great danger is the introduction of harmful bacteria causing abscesses and even small tears in the colon walls that could lead to life threatening abscesses in the abdomen.

Many people who have diverticular disease may not know about it because diverticulosis usually do not have symptoms. At most, people have mild cramps, constipation and bloating. Diverticulitis on the other hand manifests with abdominal pain, soreness around the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, vomiting, nausea, chills, and cramping. The gravity of these symptoms greatly depends on the extent of complications and infection.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease, which is also known as enteritis or ileitis, is a digestive tract disease characterized by the chronic inflammation of the colon and other parts of the digestive tract. It affects about 500,000 to two million Americans and can recur over a patient's lifetime. Oftentimes, Crohn's Disease is hard to detect because it has similar symptoms to other colon disorders like ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.

The usual symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, anal pain, bloating, anal drainage, rectal abscesses, joint pain, skin lesions and fissure. Some patients bleed to the extent of developing anemia. Crohn's disease may stunt the growth and development of children due to the malabsorption of protein and other important nutrients.

Crohn's disease may sometimes result into ulcers that could tunnel to surrounding tissues and areas such as the vagina, and bladder. Fistulas, or abnormal tunnels, may also result from Crohn's disease.

Knowing about colon diseases is just a small part of keeping one's digestive health on the right track. Regular checkups for colon disease or other illnesses are necessary to ensure good health and general well being.

For you or someone you care for, ulcerative colitis can be a frustrating disease to deal with. You may be interested in an ulcerative colitis support group. Sometimes it is helpful just to know that you are not alone and that there are other people who care. For ulcerative colitis sufferers, discussing symptoms, tests and treatment options may cause embarrassment. But an ulcerative colitis support group is made up of people who have had the same or similar experiences.

Chronic disease can lead to depression and/or anxiety. Many doctors who care for ulcerative colitis patients advise counseling and/or an ulcerative colitis support group. If your physician or your family member's physician does not have information concerning support, you can find it on the web. Some people resist the idea of counseling or an ulcerative colitis support group, but both can be very helpful. Even just chatting with others who care for ulcerative colitis patients can be helpful. And, if you have had the disease for some time, you may be able to offer insight to those who are newly diagnosed. The following are just a few of the many programs you may find interesting and helpful.

The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is a non-profit organization that provides education about care for ulcerative colitis, funds research studies, holds an ulcerative colitis support group for patients and their families and sponsors activities for members. The CCFA currently has over 50,000 members and 40 chapters nationwide. At their website, you can learn more about the disease and connect with a local ulcerative colitis support group or learn about current research, options for medications and care for ulcerative colitis. The website address is http://www.ccfa.org.

If you live in New Zealand, there is the Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis Support Group (CCSG). The CCSG provides advice, information and educational material about care for ulcerative colitis. It is the largest group in New Zealand. They offer newsletters, a specialist library and a community contact service among other things. There website address is http://www.ccsg.org.nz.

There is the Crohns Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Support Group Australia, which offers members a forum for on-line discussion, games, recipes, information about care for ulcerative colitis and a support site for those who have had surgery or will need surgery. It is a very nice site and has live chat. That website address is http://pub15.ezboard.com.

Most healthcare professionals believe that support groups are important for anyone who suffers from any chronic disease, as well as their family members. Finding an ulcerative colitis support group could decrease the likelihood that you will become depressed and may decrease anxiety. While anxiety is not believed to cause the disease, it is believed to aggravate symptoms. It also may be helpful to learn about different treatment options and methods of care for ulcerative colitis patients.

For more information about ulcerative colitis and other digestive disorders, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com.

Bleeding of the bowels is a sign that something could be wrong and can occur as a result of a number of different conditions. Most of these conditions can be easily treated and cured but of course the greatest concern of rectal bleeding is cancer.

One cause of rectal bleeding is Hemorrhoids, which are otherwise commonly known as piles. They are dilated blood vessels that can rupture and bleed which can occur on the outside of the anus and are felt as little bumps which can be very painful. They can also occur on the inside of the anal canal where they are usually painless. Hemorrhoids can be treated and cured.

A fissure is a tear in the lining tissue of the anus which can be caused by diarrhea or more commonly constipation. The hard stool stretches the lining causing it to tear slightly, which exposes the nerve endings and blood vessels causing pain. Most patients experience pain on passing a stool. A fissure can be treated with medication or sometimes surgical intervention.

A fistula is an abnormal passage between the rectum and the skin around the anus which can bleed and discharge. Again fistulas can be treated with medication or surgical intervention.

Colitis is where the colon, rectum or both become inflamed or ulcerated and bleed. The patient usually experiences abdominal cramps, urgency to defecate and pain on defecation. When only the rectum is inflamed this is known as proctitis.

Colonic polyps are small growths of tissue on the inside lining of the large intestine. They often cause no symptoms but can result in bleeding, pain and passing of mucus with bowel motions. There are two main types of polyps in the bowel one of which is of no long term significance. However, the other more common polyps are benign tumours called adenomas which if left have the potential to grow and develop into a malignant cancer. One in ten adenomas turn into cancer. Polyps can be identified and removed during a colonoscopy. The tissue sample is then sent to pathology.

The symptoms, frequency and severity of food allergies differ from person to person. A mildly allergy can show itself as a skin condition such as eczema, respiratory conditions such as hay fever, a slightly runny nose or sneezing, but there is a very wide range of symptoms that can be caused by allergies.

Common symptoms of food or other allergies or intolerances in children include:

· sniffling and a postnasal drip, inflammation of the nasal passages,

· dark circles under they eyes (what is often called the allergic shiner),

· puffiness under the eyes,

· restlessness,

· fatigue,

· poor sleep,

· headaches,

· behavioral issues, such as:

o irritability,

o hyperactivity,

o poor concentration, and

· pickiness with food.

However the range of symptoms that can accompany a food allergies or intolerances is much broader than the symptoms in the list of common symptoms in children above. They symptoms can affect every system of the body.

Gastrointestinal system

· bloating and flatulence

· coeliac disease

· constipation and or diarrhea

· Crohn' disease and ulcerative colitis

· gall bladder pain

· gastric ulcers

· gastrointestinal bleeding

· heartburn

· indigestion

· infantile colic and colitis

· mouth ulcers

· mucous in stools

· nausea and vomiting

· pains or cramp

· spastic colon

Skin, eyes and ears

· acne

· conjunctivitis

· dark circles under the eyes

· dermatitis

· ear infections

· eczema

· eye pain

· hearing loss

· hives

· itching and skin rashes

· Meniere's disease

· noises in the ears

· periods of blurred vision

· psoriasis

· sensitivity to light

· skin reddening

· tearing

· temporary refractive changes

Respiratory system

· asthma

· chronic rhinitis

· coughing

· frequent colds

· hay fever

· mouth breathing

· nosebleeds

· postnasal drip

· sinusitis

· stuffy nose

· wheezing

Cardiovascular system

· angina

· high blood pressure

· irregular heart beat

· low blood pressure

· rapid pulse

Urinary system

· bed wetting

· frequent night urination

· painful or difficult urination

· some kidney diseases

Musculoskeletal system

· arthritis

· joint pain

· muscle aches and pains

· muscle cramps

· muscle spasms

· muscle weakness

Cerebral conditions

· anger

· confusion

· crying without apparent cause

· decrease in coordination

· decreased attention span

· decreased memory

· difficulty with concentration

· dizzy spells

· drowsiness but insomnia

· feeling 'spacey' or 'unreal'

· feeling 'foggy' headed

· frustration

· headaches

· hyperactivity

· irritability

· learning difficulties

· mood swings

· nervousness

· poor concentration

· poor decision making

· restlessness

· sleeps to little or sleeps to much

· tension-fatigue syndrome

Some health professionals also include the following as having a food allergy or intolerance component associated with them.

· anxiety

· delusions

· depression

· epilepsy

· hallucinations

· schizophrenia and other serious mental conditions

Other

· abnormal body odour

· excessive sweating

· general weakness

· aggravation of diabetes

· hypoglycaemia

· night-sweating

· overweight

· underweight

There is indeed a great range of symptoms - so it is important that you are able to eliminate food and chemical allergies or intolerances as being at the base of your problems. There are a number of different feature which should make you suspect a food allergy or intolerance. These are outlined below.

· Fluctuating symptoms - that come and go and do not seem to be related to any particular environmental factor may be caused by eating a particular food of which you are intolerant. The fact that they symptoms may be there one day and not the next, and yet the offending food has been eaten on both days, is not reason to assume that the condition is not due to eating a particular food. What this indicates is that you are fluctuating back and forth across a 'symptom threshold'.

· Fatigue. If you have a food allergy or intolerance you will be excessively tired and the tiredness is one that is not relieved by rest. You will often feel worst in the beginning of the day and then gradually pick up as they day progresses (or visa versa). But the energy level doesn't pick up to the level that is considered ideal. Sometimes you will feel so tired that you will need to go to rest or go to bed during the day. You may also be able to actually track down a period in your lives when the fatigue started. This may be with the onset of a bout of the flu or glandular fever or after an operation or period of high stress or during pregnancy and so forth.

· Mental and psychological symptoms are also very common with food allergies and intolerances. Many people who have spent years on antidepressants, anti- anxiety drugs and other mind altering medication have symptoms such as irritability, depression, anxiety and tension that are directly related to food allergies or intolerances.

· Weight fluctuations (sometimes many pounds or kilos in 24 hours), often also associated with fluid retention, can be directly caused by food intolerance. Weight problems often indicate food intolerances either directly or perhaps as a result of the metabolic effects of the ingestion of the offending food or because a food addiction can occur, resulting in binging on excessive amounts of carbohydrates.

· Muscle and joint aches and pains are a common sign that you have a food allergy or intolerance and although this can be associated with nutrient deficiencies (magnesium or vitamin B6, for example) they often respond to the removal of the offending food. Inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with food intolerances (particularly to wheat and milk).

· Bouts of a racing pulse or an abnormal heat beat are associated with food intolerances as well as certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies (especially vitamin B1, B6, magnesium and potassium).

· Low blood sugar or reactive hypoglycaemia is often food related. In this situation the blood sugar can drop to the point where fatigue, anxiety, lethargy, palpitations, cold sweats, faintness, dizziness, headaches, hunger, aggression and irritability can all begin to set in (although they don't necessarily all occur).

· Intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation which are found in irritable bowel syndrome are often caused by food intolerance. Sometimes severe and longstanding constipation can be caused by allergies or intolerances to wheat, other grains and dairy products.

· Food addictions and or cravings can be a part of the food intolerance picture. There can be withdrawal symptoms caused by the allergic condition - this makes you feel less well and that feeling is made better by eating the offending food or chemical.

It can be seen from this article that food allergies and intolerances can be at the base of many diseases and common condition. To find out what you can do about food allergies and intolerances and how you can deal with many health problems get your copy of Safe Colon Cleansing from my website. Use the links in my bio to get there.

Previously researchers and doctors used to believe that celiac disease or gluten intolerance was extremely rare but the past estimates were not correct.

We will discuss about the role played by gastrointestinal disorders like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome in masking gluten intolerance. However, researchers and doctors used to believe that gluten intolerance or celiac disease were extremely rare and the recent scientific study showed that one in every 133 person from all over the world suffer from gluten intolerance. However, there are few reasons why the estimates were not so accurate.

Crohn's disease like ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the digestive tract, all the way from the anus up to the mouth. It is believed by many that Crohn's disease is a autoimmune disease just like celiac disease. But, it is different from celiac disease because unlike celiac it triggers gluten. Some of the common symptom of this kind of disease is diarrhea, weight loss and abdominal pain along with gluten sensitivity.

Take for example ulcerative colitis which is an inflammatory bowel disease that has common symptoms like celiac disease and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine and colon area specifically. Colonoscopy makes it evident by revealing ulcers and open sores along the colon walls. Diarrhea with specs of blood is the primary symptom of ulcerative colitis and as the condition worsens, there will be increasing specs of blood. The cause that triggers this condition is still mysterious because researchers haven't figured that out yet. However, they believe that colitis is a genetic phenomenon. It can be really frustrating and difficult for sufferers who try to treat it because it often swings between periods with exacerbated symptoms and periods of remission. It has also been found that in many cases doctors fail to diagnose diarrhea and abdominal pain as they mix it with celiac disease like ulcerative colitis.

Excessive or unusual amount of mucus in our bowel may be a sign of Chron's disease or Ulcerative colitis. Mucus is a jelly like body substance that lies on the intestinal walls. It has a whitish or yellowish color and it is produced by the mucus membrane of the epithelium. Our organs such as lungs and nasal cavity also produced mucus.

In most cases there is equilibrium between the secretions of enzyme and mucus in our body. A slight trouble in this equilibrium will lead to inconsistent behavior of our organs. It is also the same when mucus is present in the stool. There are several reasons interrelated to the abnormal amount of mucus on stool. As I have said earlier it may be a sign of Ulcerative colitis or Chron's disease or it can be a bacterial infection. Mucoid or mucus is very normal to bacterial infection. It can also be an anal fissure. In anal fissure, because of its open skin is prone to infection or it can also be a bowel obstruction. Let's dig further why those diseases accumulate mucus.

First, the Ulcerative Colitis. In UC the mucus membrane of our intestine or the epithelial lining of our intestine become swollen, that eventually leads to ulceration of the epithelial lining of our intestine (large intestine). When this ulcer starts to bleed, production of mucus takes place and pus is developed. This mucus passes on to the rectum through the aid of the bowels.

Second, the Bacterial Infection. It is just natural in our intestine to have bacteria, or let's say good bacteria. This bacterium helps in the digestion process. Bacteria such as E. Coli, Salmonella and the likes causes fever, diarrhea and abdominal pain. When this happen, an increase in muccocal secretion is manifested and is visible in your bowel.

Third, Bowel Obstruction. You may not believe it but bowel obstruction is common reason for excessive mucoid production, and mucus is more visible to stools. Bowel obstruction is accompanied by abdominal pain, constipation nausea and vomiting. There are various reasons for bowel obstruction. It can be hormonal imbalance, too little water intake and increase in yeast formation. When there is an increase in yeast formation, excessive muccocal infection eventually follows.

Fourth, the Irritable Bowel Movement. In IBS, excessive production of mucus is greatly noted. This is because diarrhea is very is ordinary symptom to patient who suffer IBS.

Fifth, the Chron's disease. Though in CD the production of mucus is too little or barely nothing at all, but because anal fissure is a common symptom of CD, then a mucus in your stool is also visible..

A whitish color mucus indicates inflammation of the intestine. A yellowish color mucus indicates a presence of bacteria. Basically the most common reason for the occurrence of white colored mucus is food allergy and diarrhea. If the production of mucus is due to bacteria overgrowth, the symptom is worsened by the eating sugary foods and lactose. Drinking a lot of water will soothe the epithelial lining of the intestine which can result to speedy recovery. Drinking hot water with a teaspoon of flaxseed oil is also a good relief in this kind of situation.

Fat and water are always insoluble unless substance is added. In our body system there is an essential factor to absorb and digest fats. We need bile to breakdown fats. Bile is secreted by the liver and stored in the gall bladder until we need to use them. If the bile contains too much cholesterol, bile salts, or bilirubin it can cause gall stones.

Gall stones is a disorder of the gall bladder and the bile ducts. It occurs frequently associated with eating a high fat diet, refined carbohydrates and low-fiber foods.

Some groups of people who are at risk of having gallstones are those who are obese, people with high blood cholesterol level, women who take contraceptive pills, people with crohn's disease (inflammation of ileum, large intestine or any part of the digestive system), and ulcerative colitis (superficial inflammation of the large intestine).

If a person suffers from a gall bladder, avoid eating highly saturated fats found in pork meat, bacon, salami, sausages, ribs and some dairy products such as milk and cheese. Fried, processed foods, eggs, citrus fruits, chocolates, carbonated soda and coffee should also be avoided. Tofu and soy milk is one of the best alternatives for meat and fatty foods.

Since diet is one of the major causes of developing gall bladder disease, we must learn not to eat inappropriate foods. To avoid eating excess fats, try to cook your foods at home. Always trim off all visible fats from meat or chicken, don't fry rather bake, boil, grill, or steam them. Remove poultry skin before or after cooking. Choose the breast part rather than picking the wings or the skinny part of the chicken.

We can use some alternatives in choosing what kind of foods to prepare and consider the way we cook it. For meat and fatty foods, we can choose tofu ad soy milk. We can also serve jellies, lite custard, boiled sweets, wine gums, jelly babies, marshmallows to replace chocolates, cakes, toffees etc.

Fresh fruits are highly recommended and it's important to eat fibrous foods. Check out your list of low- fiber foods and replace them with barley, popcorn, corn, brown rice, grain breads, buns, muffins, bagels, apricots, dates, prunes and raisin, berries, orange, apple with skin, avocado, kiwi, mango, pear, broccoli, spinach dark green leafy vegetables, peas, beans, nuts and beans.

Eat lots of vegetable and avoid frying in butter, margarine or oil. Drink at least two liters of water a day. Olive oil is a healthy fat because it contains monounsaturated fat, but it is still high in fat. So use it sparingly.

Many guidelines and lists of good foods are easy to follow. Always remember anything we take in excess will end up in bad condition. So it is important to eat smaller meals but taken frequently throughout the day.

Back in January of 2009 I was started on Remicade. This is a drug which you take via an infusion, and it is approved by the FDA for Ulcerative Colitis. For me, I travelled down to the PAMF Infusion center which is actually in Mountain View, California where Google is headquartered. I am guessing you have probably heard of Google. I will go into details on a later post about the Remicade and the infusion process. The long story short is the Remicade was not working as planned, and I was then started on Humira for my ulcerative colitis.

I can remember the first day I started Humira clearly. I made my way up to my GI doctor's office to meet with his nurse, a woman who at this point was one of my closest friends. (for those of us who have had been given the present of severe Ulcerative Colitis, it is truly amazing how close you can become with your nurses/doctors/even receptionists since they are the first person you see when you arrive at the doctors.

How many people on this planet really don't mind having shots? I feel like I am a macho person sometimes. Fell down playing ice hockey when I was 12 or thirteen and slammed my face against the ice, blood was flying out of my mouth since my teeth cut some things up along with the impact blowing a hole in my lower lip. But needles...for some reason never got used to them. All along, my doctor was telling me how it was no big deal. Well, my doctor was right. Needles like the Humira needle are no big deal. It is so small, I had to blow the picture up to the left just so you could see the thing. Once I arrived, I had my actual prescribed Humira in my hands.

So, on my first day to start Humira, I arrived with my 4 Humira pens and the 4 yellow pages of side effect information that is included. When it came time to do the actual shots, this is when I really started to stall with the nurse. You could ask her, but I believe we may have counted down doing the "ten,nine, eight, seven, wait wait wait wait...." anyways, I was there for about 45 minutes before I had all 4 shots of Humira in me. I was hoping that, when I was supposed to take the medications next(in two weeks) that I would get it going much faster. (That never really was the case, but I did start taking them at home which must have made the physicians assistant happy!)

So that is my story of the first encounter with treating my ulcerative colitis via Humira.

Did Humira Treat My Ulcerative Colitis?
Great great question. One that is a topic of debate among the medical world. Going into taking my Humira I was really severe with Ulcerative Colitis. Has anyone ever been prescribed Humira for Chron's or UC when they were just dealing with a "mild" case of their respective disease? I guess I just assume they save the Humira for when people are not responding to any of the "less dangerous" medications. Well, the fact of the matter is that I was very severe. In looking back on the situation, I would probably only take Humira again if I had tried all the other medications available on this planet including crack cocaine, PCP, opium etc... and going to the bathroom 150 times/day. But that is just my personal decision on when to try Humira again.

Within Two or Three Weeks of Starting Humira:
This was probably about the time where things started getting a bit weird. Someday if the Ulcerative Colitis community thinks it would be valuable, I will pull up my medical records and transcribe them on this website, but for now, I think it was about two or three weeks after starting Humira that some side effects start to appear. It all began as some aches and pains in my upper back/shoulder area. It is the type of thing that anyone can easily pawn off as "oh, I must have slept wrong" or "maybe I pulled a muscle yesterday..."

That is exactly what I did for several days if not a week or more. But as all good things must come to an end, I eventually said no way jose, and dragged myself back the gastroenterology department of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. My favorite gastro doctor was on vacation while this was happening, so I began working with another excellent doctor until the return of my main one. At this point, I had been under the influence of Humira for maybe about 3 or 4 weeks and I simply could not move. Again I don't remember how bad the skin problems were at this point, but my joints were all messed up. It felt like they emptied out oil in my elbows, shoulders, sternum, and some other parts and I simply was all locked up. To give an example, when it was time to sleep at night, my wife had to push a pillow under my head since my arms were useless. I basically would sit down on the side of the bed, and lay back. Wherever I landed was where I laid. It was almost like dropping off a scuba diving boat, just Humira style. Yeah that's right, my upper body was all messed up including my elbow area. From the waist down, things were fine, thankfully. At least I could walk.

Decision to Stop Humira
As I mentioned, all good things come to an end, and I stopped Humira. This was a decision that was made by me, my temporary GI doctor, and the rheumatologist doctor I saw at the Palo Alto Med. One great part about going to the doctor this day was they prescribed me some Vicodin to take care of the pain. One thing is for sure, Vicodin works on me. Humira does as well, just not how I would have liked, but Vicodin definitely works as intended. The vicodin gave temporary relief, which was better than any present or gift I have received. At this time, there was also a decision made for me to go and up my dose of prednisone to 60mg/day which for a 160lb guy like me is a high amount. But, these were bad times, and drastic measures had to be taken.

Even stranger side effects from Humira:
Along with the Ulcerative Colitis, I now had some horrible joint pains in many spots. The consensus as to what I had come down with was some type of Arthritis. This is actually interesting because Humira is normally prescribed to Arthritis patients to help that. In all honesty, I have a very good friend who is on Humira for arthritis and is doing reasonable good. He has not had any fingernails fall off yet.

For me, another little bonus to go along with the ulcerative colits and joint problems was some real strange bumps on my head. They were something like really large pimples, and they were on my scalp under my hair. And man were they itchy sometimes. The doctors all thought this combination was rather strange, as did my family. I can only imagine what it is like to watch someone in your family go through such strange ordeals. Also, for many of us who have UC, it is not something that just happened overnight, there is usually a long history that goes along with it. So to be adding some more fun on the fire, well lets just say if it don't kill you it makes you stronger. I must be pretty darn strong then!

Time to go to Vegas
After leaving the doctor's office this time, I was heading home with my dad, and the plan was to start up the steroids and also some Vicodin and to get ready for azathioprine. At this point, I was very familiar with all the names of the medication, and this was just another situation where I was going to try out another medication since the previous ones were not getting me better. WRONG. For some reason I can't explain, I always thought the word Azathioprine was scary. maybe its the "z" in there. I did pick up that prescription, but this was the first time I decided not to take it. Basically this was the first time I was going against the doctors orders for any of my treatments up to this point. I wanted to wait until my main gastro doctor was back in the office before popping some more pills. That night, I got home and told my wife the deal, and went online to buy a plane ticket via Orbitz.com and flew on down to Las Vegas, Nevada. I stayed at the Monte Carlo and tried to take my mind adrift, which surely happened.

How much did I like my Ulcerative Colitis at this Point?
Most of the doctors I have met with in the past few years have at times asked me this question: "On a scale of 1 to 10 how bad is the pain?" I was asked some variation of this when I went to meet with the doctors from the previous paragraph. I think this is when I started responding with this type of line: "If I had to choose from UC or this joint problem for the rest of my life, I would chose the ulcerative colitis!" That is what was starting to go on in my head, simply based off how limited you are if you can't move. It would be better to need to go to the bathroom 10-15 times per day, then to not be mobile at all right?

Lets fast forward about 8 months to January 2010.
So, now, it is time to share some photos my current skin problems that started developing back in May of 2009, and its January 2010. Most definitely, the skin problems have gotten much better, but they are still there for sure. I have been prescribed things like Clobetosol which is a very strong steroid cream. UV Rays, other rx creams, and other stuff I don't remember. I really don't think these skin problems are here to stay forever right? But, again, the consensus from the doctors at Stanford Hospital, Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale Arizona, and the Palo Alto Medical Foundation is that my skin problems are a direct side effect from the Humira.

If anyone has similar side effects as this, please contact me, supposedly it is a very small group of people who have this type of reaction to Humira, and I would be truly honored to speak live with someone in the same shoes. Lastly, this particular post is very negative on Humira, or at least that is what I am expecting some people may think. Please realize that my goal is the same as every doctor that is exists on this planet. That is to see as many people as healthy as possible. If you or someone you know is currently taking Humira, and is having great results(much like my good friend) than please congratulate those people. My hope would be that someone considering Humira as a treatment option for ulcerative colitis may actually find a way to treat their UC with a much much smaller chance of having these side effects. Had I treated myself with my diet, I am convinced none of this stuff would be taking place now or in the past.

With each passing medical and scientific study the benefits of fish oil and fish oil supplements, are finding their way into the spotlight. Many studies have shown a correlation between reducing the possibility of heart failure, heart attack and different vascular diseases, but it has only been recently that a connection between Omega-3 fatty acids and helpful benefits for patients suffering from Irritable Bowl Diseases (IBDs) such as ulcerative colitis and Chrohn's disease.

Many of these studies are double-blind studies that are further validated with cultural studies of Inuit and Eskimo populations that have a diet high in fish that contains Omega-3 fatty acids and a very low occurrence of ulcerative colitis and Chrohn's disease. As the evidence mounts, further studies will be needed to pinpoint with any accuracy how much the dietary intake of Omega-3 fatty acids can help in patients suffering from these gastrointestinal diseases, but on the surface the smaller studies that have been done are very promising.

Ulcerative Colitis and Chrohn's Disease Overview

Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease are two types of inflammatory bowel diseases. These diseases are believed to be caused by several factors. First, genetic and non-genetic causes are believed to be the culprit in many cases. The other possible cause is environmental factors such as infections that cause an immune reaction in the gastrointestinal area. The body then generates a large amount of white blood cells in the intestinal lining. These white blood cells release chemicals in the process of fighting the infection that inflame the intestinal tissue. It should be noted, though, that the exact causes of IBDs, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are currently unknown.

In general, an ulcerative colitis attack or Crohn's disease attack will consist of severe intestinal inflammation, which can cause bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, anemia, bleeding from the ulcers, rupture of the bowel, obstructions and strictures, fistulae, toxic megacolon and malignant cancer. In the last instance, the risk of colon cancer in patients that have had ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease rises significantly. Generally, after an attack, the disease will go into a remission stage that can last weeks or even years. If you are suffering from these symptoms you should see your physician immediately for a proper diagnosis.

Until recently, the treatment for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease was, first and foremost, a healthy diet. If symptoms require it, physicians will ask their patients to limit their intake of dairy and fiber. While it is true that diet has relatively little to no influence on the actual inflammation process within ulcerative colitis, it could have influence on the different symptoms associated with it. On the other hand, diet does have an impact on the inflammatory activity in Crohn's disease and one of the main ways of treating these symptoms is a diet that consists of predigested food. It should also be noted that in both diseases, stress has been shown to be a factor in causing flare-ups. Because of this, physicians will also emphasize the importance of stress management.

Secondarily, medical treatment for these two diseases involves suppression of the high level of inflammatory response mechanisms of the immune system within the intestinal tract. By suppressing this response, the intestinal tissue can heal and the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea can be relieved. After the symptoms have been controlled, further medicinal treatment helps to decrease flare-ups and lengthen or maintain remission periods.

Conventional methods of medicating these two diseases involve a stepped approach. Initially, the least harmful of medications are given in as low a dosage as possible and are taken for a short time period. If these medications provide little or no relief, the dosages are either increased or the medications are changed.

The lowest levels of medications, or Step I, are aminosalicylates and antibiotics. Corticosteroids make up the set of Step II drugs. Step III drugs involve the use of immune modifying medications or a drug called Infliximab for patients suffering from Crohn's disease. These medications are not used, however, during acute flare-ups due to the length of time that a flare-up can last. Only after Step III medications fail completely are Step IV drugs introduced because at this time, they are experimental.

A final alternative in treating ulcerative colitis is surgery. Because ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon, surgery can completely cure it. Crohn's disease, unfortunately, is not restricted to the colon and can exist anywhere in the digestive tract. Because of this, surgery will often complicate matters more.

Limitations of Medical Treatment

Nearly one-quarter of all patients diagnosed with some form of IBD, either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, will not respond to medical treatment. In about three-quarters of cases of Crohn's disease, surgery (even though it is not curative) will be required. Regardless of current medical treatment, a person suffering from ulcerative colitis will have a 50% chance of having remission end within a two-year period after the last flare-up. Even if the initial diagnosis of ulcerative colitis is limited to the rectum there is a 50% probability of the disease becoming more extensive over a twenty-five year period. If a patient has ulcerative colitis that involves the entire colon, that patient stands a 60% chance of requiring a colectomy and most patients will require surgical intervention within the first year after diagnosis of the disease.

It's obvious that Intestinal Bowel Disease can be debilitating. Continued treatments with progressively harsher medications and surgeries that may help in some cases but not others become the norm for these patients. Further, the complications like strictures and fistulas associated with IBDs, can ultimately lead to colon cancer. Many times, these complications create a feeling of hopelessness among those who suffer from ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.

There is hope, though. New studies are presenting strong evidence for the use of Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil and fish oil supplements) in the prevention and treatment of IBDs. These studies are shedding new light on the multi-faceted health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids and ultimately may present new methods for the treatment of these painful diseases.

The Case for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Traditionally, the Inuit populations of Alaska have existed on diets high in fatty fish, specifically, types of fish that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Past studies of these cultures have shown that the large majority of these groups do not suffer from heart problems, heart disease or other forms of vascular disease. Less known, however, was the fact that the majority of people within these cultures also do not suffer from any form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. This has led some scientists to postulate that there is a strong connection between the dietary intake of fish oil or fish oil supplements and the prevention of IBDs.

Take, for instance, one example of a symptom of both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: inflammation. Fish oils high in Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce its occurrence in patients suffering from IBDs. The reason for this is that when Omega-3 fatty acids are introduced into the body it suppresses the production of leukotriene B4. Omega-3s have also been shown to inhibit interleukin 1Beta. Both leukotriene B4 and interleukin 1Beta are major players in the inflammation of mucosa lining the gastrointestinal tracts.

With regular dietary intake of fish oil supplements high in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), inflammation can be reduced by up to 50% in the intestinal tissues of patients who suffer from ulcerative colitis. Fish oils that have anti-inflammatory properties are only effective in reducing inflammation, but not preventing it. Results in patients with Crohn's disease haven't been quite as promising, but this area of research is still in its infancy.

Recent studies show tremendous promise in fish oil's effectiveness in preventing and reducing the effects of IBDs. These studies show that there is an increase in the manufacture of less powerful prostaglandins at the sacrifice of the more potent ones. Patients with active ulcerative colitis who were given fish oil supplements have also shown significant improvement versus patients who were given placebos. Further study with larger control groups is needed, though, in order for more accurate data to be gathered.

As further evidence of the link between Omega-3s and relief from the symptoms and inflammation of IBDs, a 12-week study involving patients who knew they were taking fish oil supplements showed a significant decline in the disease. This study was further bolstered by the results from samples of the intestinal mucosa that were found to have increased amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid. These results increase when the supplement given to the patients is encased with an enteric coating, which allows the fish oil to be released lower into the intestinal tract. This further alleviates side effects such as fishy breath, burping and flatulence related to taking fish oil supplements. Because of the fewer side effects associated with these supplements, treatment over the long-term is more tolerable.

A Worldwide Phenomenon

With more notice being taken of the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids on the health of people who take them on a consistent basis, the worldwide scientific community has opened up more to the idea of this supplement being used for effective treatment of IBDs. For instance, in Italy, a study was conducted using enteric-coated fish oil supplements and a notable reduction in the rate of relapse in Crohn's disease remission was noted. The patients involved in this study showed evidence of inflammation at the beginning of the study and were suffering from the symptoms related to Crohn's. In this study, patients suffering from the disease received either three fish oil capsules three times per day or a placebo three times per day. Those patients receiving fish oil supplements showed a significant reduction in the inflammation.

Among 39 patients in the placebo group, almost 70% of the patients who were in remission, relapsed. Out of the 39 patients supplementing their diet with fish oil capsules, only 28% relapsed. Further, after a year, nearly 60% of the 39 patients being given fish oil supplements were still in remission while only 25% of the patients given the placebo were in remission.

Given the small size of the study group it is only possible to speculate on the efficacy of treatment for Crohn's disease patients, however, the results of this study are promising. If scientists are given the opportunity to produce a study with a much larger group of patients, better and more accurate data could be gathered which could lead to even more positive results. More research would also allow scientists and doctors to understand the ways in which the EPA works to help increase time of remission.

There is strong speculation that patients suffering from IBDs lack a particular enzyme found in Omega-3 pathways and that when this enzyme is present, remission and even prevention of IBDs is possible. In a sense, adding an Omega-3 supplement to the diet of a patient suffering from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis appears to be a type of enzyme replacement therapy.

In Japan, medical researchers at Shiga University of Medical Science conducted a study in which the diet of Crohn's disease patients was altered to include a meal of rice, cooked fish and soup. Prior to the establishment of this diet, the occurrence of relapse within one year was 90%. After implementation of the diet the occurrence of relapse dropped to 40% within one year. Results like this are encouraging other countries to do similar studies.

In the United States, research conducted at Boston University Medical Center shows that patients with chronic IBD have unusual fatty acid profiles that were generally lower than control subjects who did not suffer from any type of chronic intestinal disorder. Because of this lack of fatty acids, it is believed that these patients are more prone to these problems. The study also suggests that the addition of Omega-3 fatty acids via a diet that adds fish oil or fish oil supplements can help reduce and correct this shortage.

Another study in San Francisco that involved patients with ulcerative colitis showed that there is an increase in leukotriene B4 in the colonic lining. The hypothesis in this study is that an increase in fish oil supplements in patients suffering from ulcerative colitis could inhibit the synthesis of the leukotrienes. If this is possible, fish oil supplements would be responsible for a reduction or elimination of the symptoms associated with inflammation of the bowels in this disease.

The final results of the study show that the hypothesis was accurate. Patients in the study were randomized and placed into two different groups. The study group received regular daily doses of fish oil containing 2.7 grams of eicosapentaenoic acid and 1.8 grams of docosahexaenoic acid. The second set of patients were placed into a control group and given placebo capsules filled with olive oil. Over a three-month period, patients receiving the fish oil supplements showed marked improvement in the severity of the symptoms of the disease. In fact, 72% of the study group taking the supplements was able to reduce or completely terminate their anti-inflammation and steroid medication schedules. The final outcome of the study was that fish oil supplements were integral to the improvement of patients suffering from ulcerative colitis.

A similar study done at Mount Sinai School of Medicine shows that the regular use of fish oil supplements in patients suffering from ulcerative colitis diminishes the severity of the disease. Fully 70% of the patients involved in the study showed moderate to significant improvement and 80% of the patients in the study were able to reduce their intake of prednisone, an anti-inflammatory used to help alleviate symptoms of the disease, by up to 66%.

Taking the Next Steps

Studies are showing positive results and it's obvious that the Omega-3 fatty acids inherent to fish oil supplements are beneficial to our intestinal health. The obvious thing to do is find out what types of fish oil supplements are the best. Personal research will aid you in finding the correct supplements and additionally, if you suffer from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, you should consult with your physician about the benefits of adding a fish oil supplement to your diet and what dosage you should take. There is, however, some basic information about fish oil supplements that you need to know.

First of all, not all fish oil supplements are created equal. Cod liver oil is, by far, the most inexpensive form of fish oil that contains Omega-3 fatty acids. However, it does not contain the highest amounts and in most cases it cannot be taken in high doses because of impurities such as mercury that are left in it. It also has an extremely powerful taste that most have trouble tolerating.

A much better choice for supplementing your diet with fish oil is a health food grade supplement. These supplements have been purified using a process called molecular distillation. This process eliminates nearly all of the impurities and is very safe when taken in the doses necessary to help alleviate the symptoms associated with IBDs.

The purest form of fish oil supplements is pharmaceutical grade. These supplements have also been processed using molecular distillation, however, at a much higher level. The process used in filtering out the impurities gets rid of all of them down to the particulate level. These supplements, of course, are also the most expensive, but will have the greatest impact on your ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.

The benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids are proving to be phenomenal and it is anyone's guess as to the limits of what these supplements can do for our health. With few side effects that are relatively minor, fish oil supplements are a good choice to help you improve your overall health. The fact that they can be used to inhibit the relapse of the symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis is even more exciting. Omega-3 fatty acids are carving out a healthy niche in the diets of individuals worldwide and everyone is all the better for it.

Spirulina is one of the most familiar of the single-celled plants known as blue-green algae. They are usually found in warm and alkaline waters all over the world, predominantly in South America, Africa, and Mexico. The name "spirulina" is derived from the Latin word for "helix" or "spiral"; reflecting the physical configuration of the organism as it forms swirling, microscopic strands.

Blue-green algaes contain significant nutritional content, including polysaccharides, antioxidants, nucleic acids and peptides. Spirulina contains about 70 percent protein, vitamin E, vitamin C, beta carotene and B complex and chlorophyll. Spirulina also contain essential fatty acids, and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc.

Protein Content. Spirulina is the world's most digestible natural source of high quality protein, far surpassing the protein bioavailability of beef. The protein found in this algae superfood is complete, containing all eight essential amino acids, unlike beans and other plant foods that typically lack some of the essential amino acids.

Spirulina's predigested protein is absorbed almost immediately, without the energy-draining effects of breaking down meat protein, and its simple carbohydrates give you immediate yet sustained energy. Its protein-bonded vitamins and minerals, as in all whole foods, assimilate better than the synthetic variety. Spirulina is a great supplement for those who exercise vigorously, as evidenced by the many world-class athletes who use it.

Spirulina is the ideal food source for people looking to get more protein into their diets:

• people on low-carb, high-protein diets like the Atkins Diet or the South Beach Diet.


• people who workout vigorously or engage in strength training.


• people who are frail, have trouble gaining weight, or who are generally malnourished.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA). Blue-green algaes--especially spirulina--are some of the best sources of gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with many healthful properties that is missing in most people's diet. GLA has been shown to help prevent conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and even cancer.

Health Benefits of Spirulina

Studies reveal some of the most common benefits of spirulina:

• inhibits the infectious power of many viruses--including HIV, flu, mumps, measles, and herpes


• helps diminish allergies such as hay fever


• helps protect the liver from toxins


• helps boost the immune system


• reverses the signs of aging


• helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol


• helps control symptoms of ulcerative colitis


• exerts strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects


• helps with weight loss

Spirulina has been found to have significant positive effects on people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Studies show that spirulina has the ability to reduce fasting blood sugar levels in the body after 6 to 8 weeks of intake.

Spirulina has long been established to have cancer fighting ingredients.

Spirulina helps support the healthy pH balance of the body. Western diets tend to be highly acidic, due to the heavy reliance on foods like animal proteins. These acidic foods can be effectively countered by the alkaline nature of spirulina.

Cleansing & Detoxification. If you engage in intense physical training, you'll find the chlorophyll in spirulina especially valuable. Anytime you put your body under stress, toxins and free radicals are released from your tissues. The chlorophyll in spirulina helps eliminate these waste products, and cleanses your liver, kidneys and blood. When the liver and kidneys are working more smoothly, everything else in the body works better, too.

This cleansing effect is also important if you're on any sort of low-carb diet (Atkins diet, South Beach diet, etc.) since such diets can place a heavy burden on the liver and kidneys. (Eliminating excess ketones puts your body under additional stress.)

The cleansing effect of spirulina is also of great benefit in protecting you against environmental toxins, air and water pollution, and other contaminants that you're being exposed to every day.

Spirulina is a Whole Food. Think of spirulina as a nutrient-dense green food, rather than a nutritional supplement. The more of it you can get into your diet, the better. You can't eat too much, and one tablespoon has the nutritional value of 5 or 6 servings of common vegetables. This is a great way to ensure that you get enough phytonutrients into your diet, especially if you avoid dark green leafy vegetables.

Blood in stool is often discovered with some perplexity, accompanied appropriately by exclamations of 'bloody' (not expletive). Dots of blood, scarlet red, stand out unmistakably on excrement. Maroon red blotches of blood besmirches the toilet tissue. Bright red spots of blood dribble into the toilet bowl or down the legs. Quite naturally, a sudden bout of fear causes our hearts to jump a beat or two.

No undue alarm is warranted yet as the hemorrhaging (technical word for bleeding) could be any one of 7 possible causes arising from the colon. Mindful attention to ensure early diagnosis and correct treatment will reduce any unsettling lifestyle changes as the best part of the 7 causes are treatable. Do not be unconcerned. Commence close monitoring. Without delay, consult your doctor if bleeding and pain lingers for more than a week.

Appropriate treatment following proper diagnosis can often quickly resolve the problem. More critically, blood in stool may be the consequence of some type of cancer.

Melena or Hematochezia

Hematochezia (maroon or bright red colored blood) or melena (black sticky or tarry stools) are two medical categorizations for the less technical term rectal bleeding. Whilst recognised as rectal bleeding as the exit is the rectum, the origins of the blood may be any of 7 causes in the colon (large intestine). Cancer, colon polyps, diverticulosis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, intestinal ischemia and peptic ulcer are the 7 known causes in the colon.

Colorectal Cancer

This is the third most frequent form of cancer on earth and the third most frequent reason for of cancer-related death with a fatality toll of around 640,000 annually. It is the reason why one should see a medical specialist for continual blood in stool.

Tumours in the colon, appendix and rectum are classified as colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy (visual inspection by micro-camera inserted via the anus) is the chief means of ascertaining colorectal cancer. Treatment focuses on surgical excision and chemotherapy. Timely discovery often leads to a total cure. Those over 50 and those with family history of cancers are classified under the higher risk group. Colorectal cancer is gender blind, affecting both women and men, with no conspicuous bias for either sex.

This next point bears taking note. Quite in contrast to what is reported elsewhere, colorectal cancer commonly produces occult (not visible to the naked eye) blood in feces i.e it is NOT a regular reason for visible blood in stool! According to the University of Michigan Health System, colorectal cancer does cause bleeding but special tests are requisite to confirm the presence of occult blood. Crucial accompanying symptoms to watch out for are diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, weight loss, appetite loss and incessant fatigue.

Colon Polyp

Affixing on the walls of the intestines or the rectum, polyps are frequently benign and may be raised or flat. Those above 50 years of age and with a family history of polyps and colorectal cancer are prone to polyps. Contributory factors include lack of exercise, obesity, alcohol and smoking. It would seem that no one knows the real cause.

Whilst benign, polyps are usually excised during colonoscopy as they can become malignant. Polyps do not usually cause noticeable symptoms. But in others, blood in stool is present.

Diverticulosis

Pouches (diverticula) stretching from the colon wall is distinctive of diverticulosis. Diverticula growth is postulated to be a result of abnormal colon pressure, the causes of which are not entirely distinct. Contributory factors include deprivation of dietary fiber. If food gets embedded in diverticula, infection may set in leading to diverticulitis. Complications from diverticulitis can ensue if an infected diverticulum ruptures and disseminates bacteria to the abdominal cavity lining. The possibly deadly peritonitis can materialise.

Diverticulosis do not cause distinct symptoms in most people. Mild cramps, constipation and bloating are some noted symptoms. Yet others suffer more acutely, including nausea, vomiting and rectal bleeding as the most common symptoms. The peril of peritonitis emphasizes the need that blood in stool should first be examined by a doctor. A CT (computed tomography) scan is 98% efficacious in diagnosing diverticulitis.

Ulcerative Colitis

IBD or inflammatory bowel disease, under which colitis is classified, affects the large intestine (colon) and the small intestine. Inflammation by itself is a healthy bodily response to heal damaged tissue. Like a tap that must be turned off, inflammation sets off curing of injured tissue but must terminate thereafter or greater tissue harm may ensue. Ulcerative colitis is caused by ulcers which are erosion of the mucous membrane lining.

Apart from other symptoms, blood in stool is frequent. The risk of peritonitis from colitis is the key reason for diagnosing it as the cause of rectal bleeding.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an auto-immune disease whereby the body's immune system provokes harmful inflammation by assailing the gastrointestinal tract. It can develop in any part of of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. But it usually affects the small and large intestine (colon).

Smoking, genetic makeup and industrial environmental exposure are believed to be contributory causal factors even though definitive causes are unknown. The symptoms are blood in stool, abdominal cramps, severe bloody diarrhea, blood on toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl, fever and weight loss.

Often termed as granulomatous colitis, Crohn's disease can go into abeyance and happen again periodically throughout life. Currently, there is no known surgical or pharmaceutical solution for Crohn's disease. Early detection is important for efficacious control of the symptoms and checking recurrences.

Intestinal Ischemia

Ischemia is a suppression in blood supply to any part of the body. Dysfunctional arteries result in tissue damage due to the deprivation of blood nutrients and oxygen. Intestinal ischemia is the depletion blood supply causing inflammation of the large intestine; a result of blood clots, blood vessel constriction and general high blood pressure.

Symptoms include blood in stool, urgent and violent bowel movements, weight loss, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, abdominal bloating and fever. Urgent medical attention is needed to rejuvenate intestinal blood supply if there is serious consistent pain. It may be crucial to surgically circumvent blocked blood vessels and remove blood clots and damaged tissue. To arrest clots and infections, respective medication includes anticoagulants and antibiotics.

Peptic Ulcer

An exceedingly painful ulcer, this is located in the gastrointestinal tract. An erosion of the mucosal membrane that is at least 0.5cm in diameter is an ulcer. Commonly mistaken to occur in the stomach, peptic ulcers are actually prevalent in the duodenum (initial part of the small intestine). Peptic ulcers are largely presumed to be caused by a bacterium that inflicts chronic gastritis.

Symptoms include blood in stool (melena), abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, appetite and weight loss, vomiting of blood and at the extreme, perforation of the intestine. This can lead to possibly deadly peritonitis and requires emergency surgery. Antibiotics and antacids can be used to cure milder cases.

Hemorrhoids

The above 7 causes is the rationale why rectal bleeding demands the skills of a medical doctor who can render a precise diagnosis. Appropriate treatment and medication, possibly including surgery, can accelerate the path to recovery.

Lest you be too distressed by the above narrated causes, blood in stool is most usually due to the relatively innocuous internal or external hemorrhoids.

If you are searching for information about an effective ulcerative colitis diet, you may find yourself very confused. There is no diet for ulcerative colitis that is agreed upon by all healthcare professionals. Most eating plans that are advertised as an ulcerative colitis diet were designed by those who suffer from the disease or those who love them. One man who sells a cookbook for his ulcerative colitis diet plan says that he was told by a doctor of "oriental medicine" (his words, not mine) that he should eat no meat, no fish, no egg yolks, no fruits and no nuts. While another diet for ulcerative colitis control, developed by a doctor and a biochemist recommends meat, fish, eggs, fruits and nuts. It may be wise and most effective to design your own ulcerative colitis diet, taking into account any known food allergies or sensitivities.

A symptoms and food diary may be helpful to use as you are designing your diet for ulcerative colitis control. Try to note not only what you ate, but what you drank. While there is little agreement about what foods should be included in an ulcerative colitis diet, there are certain products (like caffeine, alcohol, high fiber cereals, some fruits and some fruit juices) that are known to have a laxative effect, cause cramping and diarrhea, even in people who do not have an inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis. Diet is important. A healthy diet is important for overall good health and sense of well being. For those who suffer from ulcerative colitis, diet is particularly important.

Chronic diarrhea may lead to malnutrition, weight loss, weakness and dehydration. For these reasons a diet for ulcerative colitis control should be well-balanced, with adequate amounts of protein, carbohydrates and good fats. Including vitamin supplements, particularly D, B12 and iron is recommended.

Simple sugars and artificial sweeteners cause flare ups in some people. No matter what your food preferences, it is important when designing your ulcerative colitis diet to be honest with yourself. It may be hard to give up sodas, coffee, candy and muffins, but your goal should be to control your symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is considered a chronic disease that has a tendency to go into remission and then flare up again over time. Mild to moderate symptoms may be controlled with an ulcerative colitis diet, supplements, herbs and medications, but severe ulcerative colitis can only be cured with surgery. Since cases rarely begin as severe, keeping your symptoms under control decreases the likelihood that surgery will be necessary.

One thing to consider when designing your ulcerative colitis diet is stress and anxiety. While stress and anxiety are not believed to cause ulcerative colitis, it is believed that they can aggravate the condition. Many people who suffer from ulcerative colitis also suffer from anxiety. It may be that the condition causes people to be more anxious, never knowing when they may have to find a bathroom, always worrying about a flare up, etc. Symptoms of anxiety include rapid pulse, trembling, shaking, sweating and nausea or abdominal distress. If you experience symptoms of anxiety, in addition to symptoms of ulcerative colitis, diet considerations are similar, but there are other suggestions. These include eating smaller meals more frequently, chewing thoroughly and eating slowly.

Salt and preservatives are known to put additional stress on the body. These should be excluded or at least restricted from a healthy ulcerative colitis diet, particularly when symptoms of stress and anxiety are present. When designing your diet for ulcerative colitis control, try to include less pre-packaged foods which are full of salt and preservatives.

One more consideration for an ulcerative colitis diet is meat selection. Most companies that raise poultry, cattle and pigs for human consumption include hormones in the animal's diets. While there is no conclusive evidence that these hormones are harmful to humans, many people believe that they can put additional stress on the human body, because they increase stress on the animal's bodies. When you are selecting meat and fish for your ulcerative colitis diet, try to select products that do not contain hormones. For example, wild salmon, free range chicken and other organic products are better choices for a diet for ulcerative colitis control than pork and beef.

The lack of agreement about an effective ulcerative colitis diet probably stems from the fact that people have different food sensitivities and allergies. For example, a person who is lactose intolerant can not follow a diet that contains numerous milk products. One who is allergic to legumes can not follow a diet that relies heavily on legumes for protein. If you do not know if you are allergic to any foods, it may be wise to visit an allergy specialist. Sometimes food allergies develop over time, so foods that you were able to eat at one time with no adverse reactions may, at a later date, cause symptoms to flare up.

All of this may seem overwhelming and even depressing, but you may be encouraged to know that many people have found an ulcerative colitis diet that works well for them. For other suggestions about diet for ulcerative colitis control, from people just like you, you may want to visit a colitis support group. There are several on the web and your doctor may be able to recommend groups in your area. For more information about ulcerative colitis and other digestive problems, visit www.digestive-disorders-guide.com.

I suffered with ulcerative colitis from the age of 23, I had many symptoms that where undetected and mistaken for other things such as piles. My symptoms included loss of weight at a fast rate for no reason, blood in stools or just passing of pure blood. My symptoms went undetected for about six months which left me anemic and very tired all the time.

My worse nightmare was when I found out I had ulcerative colitis was the thought of having a colostomy bag as I hadn't saw one but a user of them had described them to me and carried around a massive holdall bag around with her saying that she had to take it everywhere with her. This really upset me as being only young I thought that I couldn't go out parting with friend's carrying a massive bag around. With this in mind when they told me that I would need a colostomy bag I was devastated and thought that maybe life was not worth living as at the time I was also single. I had lots of issues with having the bag and was upset for a few days until the operation.

The day of the operation came and I went down for the colostomy bag still with terror in mind still not having seen a colostomy bag yet as the operation was an emergency.

Coming round a few days later I was really scared about seeing the bag that was now going tho be part of my life, I remember a nurse coming and changing it for me which was not as strange as I had originally thought. Being inquisitive I asked if I could help so we did it together then after that I started changing it myself with confidence. (Bearing in mind I can now change it even after having a few drinks on a night out it is that easy.)

The surgery took a while to heal but I felt really well and was amazed by the way my life had changed with what felt like just a bag. It is the best thing that I could of had done to make my life become normal again and if people didn't know that I wore a colostomy bag then you would never know as it is really discrete.

If you show any signs of blood in your stools or a fast weight loss than be sure to ask for your doctor for tests as they are sometimes to quick to pass any tummy troubles off with IBS. If your do have to have a colostomy bag then I would advise you to ask your stoma nurse if you could have the number of someone who has had one so you can talk to them about any concerns you have, I have had the pleasure of meeting people who have had to have the surgery or might have to so they can ask questions as who best to ask than someone who as gone through it all and can give you first hand experiences that they have experienced during the surgery and after care.

Mastocytic enterocolitis is a new clinical entity characterized by increase mast cells of 20 or more per high-powered field in the duodenum or colon. Jakate et al. described 47 patients with intractable diarrhea and abdominal pain without other cause who had elevated mast cell numbers in intestinal biopsies and responded to therapy directed at mast cells. The patients generally met criteria for diarrhea predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Normal subjects had much lower levels of mast cells of an average of 12 per HPF. My experience indicates that this condition may be another hidden epidemic that should be added to the that of celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). My colleague Dr. Rodney Ford has suggested the term 'gluten syndrome" for the broader problem of non-celiac gluten sensitivity and I agree that this may be a more appropriate term. Now, I am suggesting that mastocytic inflammatory bowel disease (MIBD) be considered as a better term for the newly recognized mastocytic enterocolitis. I review my reasons below.

Until recently the presence of increased mast cells was either missed due to lack of ability to see mast cells on biopsies in the background of normal cells or was only noted in association with inflammatory bowel diseases and celiac disease. A few pediatric studies have noted increase mast cells in the esophagus in association with eosinophilic esophagitis or "allergic esophagus". Systemic mastocytosis has been known for years and has been associated with bowel symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Now two new studies are shedding more light on this covert cell and its role in postoperative ileus and association with stress. Mast cells have been linked to diarrhea predominant IBS in a few studies but it wasn't until the Jakate article that a distinct entity defined.

The problem with linking mast cells with IBS and other digestive symptoms has been hampered by the difficulty seeing these cells in intestinal biopsies. However, now commercially available special stains utilizing immunohistochemistry for the enzyme tryptase allows the mucosal mast cells to be seen and counted in intestinal tissue obtained from routine random intestinal biopsies. Over the past year I have been asking the pathologists to perform mast cell stains on intestinal biopsies in my GI patients with diarrhea and abdominal pain. Recently, I began expanding this to include as many patients as possible as well as requesting these stains be done on biopsies performed previously in patients who I suspected might have this condition.

I have now accumulated fifty patients meeting criteria for mastocytic enterocolitis or mastocytic enteritis. These patients are in various stages of evaluation and treatment. I am collecting and analyzing the clinical information with the intent to submit the data for publication. What I have observed on initial review is that appears to be a higher than expected prevalence of the celiac disease risk genes DQ2 and DQ8. In particular, DQ8 appears to be overrepresented compared with the incidence in the general population. There also appears to be an association with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity and multiple food intolerance.

The latter finding of multiple food intolerance determined by mediator release testing abnormalities (MRT, Signet Diagnostic Corporation and Alcat) makes sense. The principle of these tests is the detection of changes in cell volumes that occur due to chemical mediator release from cells present in the blood. The tests are not specific for the mediator or mediators released but is assumed that the greater the reaction the greater the number of mediators released and more likely a particular food, chemical or food additive can cause an adverse reaction.

The laboratories that provide mediator release testing report great success in treating a variety of symptoms commonly attributed to food intolerance or chemical/additive sensitivity. It is my belief that mast cells are heavily involved in this process. This would make sense since success with conditions now being associated with mast cells are reported to respond favorably to dietary elimination of foods or substances with abnormal MRT reactions. Classic examples include IBS, headaches, and interstitial cystitis that have been linked to mast cells as well as stress that is now linked to increase mast cells and mast cell degranulation releasing mediators.

Mediator release tests are criticized by some U.S. doctors, in particular quackwatch.com as being unproven or not validated for "food allergy" evaluation. However, they are not food allergy tests. Food allergy is an IgE mediated type I immediate immune response known as allergy. MRT tests for non-immune delayed type reactions resulting from mediator release from immune cells. The point is that mediator release testing is not a form of food allergy testing. MRT is a form of non-immune food intolerance or sensitivity reaction.

New articles published in the January 2008 issue of the journal Gut reveal exciting new associations of mast cell degranulation with postoperative ileus and a link to a stress hormone. The first study may be the first to show that mast cells in human bowel release mediators when the bowel is handled during surgery resulting in temporary bowel paralysis known as postoperative ileus. The minimally invasive surgery technique of laparoscopy results in less mechanical stimuli to the bowel and has a lower incidence of postoperative ileus.

Stress association with IBS and inflammatory bowel diseases (Ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease) has been long known but a mechanism had not been determined definitely. In the same issue of Gut investigators showed that the stress hormone corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) regulates intestinal permeability (leaky gut) through mast cells. The investigators even identified specific receptors on mast cells. This new information sheds new light on the possible link of leaky gut and mast cells with IBS, IBD and celiac disease.

So, how do I believe this new information may help us? Since stress can increase mast cells in the bowel and these cells can release mediators that cause gut injury and symptoms, stress reduction important. These cells can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation as well as other symptoms outside the gut so they are important. Yet, the significance of these cells is generally not recognized because most doctors, including gastroenterologists and pathologists are unaware of their presence and importance.

These cells cannot be seen in the intestine without special stains done on intestinal tissue obtained during upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. Those stains are not routinely done but generally require the doctor performing the biopsy to request them. If no biopsy is performed then obviously these cells cannot be found. There may be a genetic predisposition for what I think may be better termed mastocytic inflammatory bowel disease (MIBD) rather than mastocytic enterocolitis. There also may be the same genetically determined white blood cell protein patterns that are associated with Celiac disease playing an important role in MIBD.

As note above, stress reduction and probiotic therapy may be helpful to reduce mast cells and leaky gut but what about once the mast cells are increased in the gut. Once elevated mast cells are present, treatment may include medications and dietary interventions. Antihistamines, both type I (e.g. Claritin, Allegra, Zirtec) and type II (e.g. Zantac, Tagamet, Pepcid) to block histamine effects have been used successful in reducing abdominal pain and diarrhea in people with mastocytic enterocolitis. A very specific mast cell stabilizer, sodium Cromalyn (Gastrocrom), also has reduced symptoms. It is an accepted therapy for the more severe condition of generalized mastocytosis.

Searching for food allergies and food intolerance (by mediator release testing) followed by dietary elimination of problem foods until leaky gut resolves and mast cell numbers in the bowel reduce is also helpful in my experience. Food allergy testing consists of skin testing and IgE RAST antibody tests. These tests do not exclude non-allergic food intolerance and sensitivity. Antibody tests for IgG in blood or IgA in stool or saliva have been used for food sensitivity. In my experience MRT tests are much more helpful as they look for any abnormal mediator release to a variety foods, chemicals, or additives, regardless of the nature.

Stay tuned for new developments about the role of mast cells and look for more interest in mastocytic enterocolitis in the future. I propose that the GI community should adopt the broader term mastocytic inflammatory bowel disease since there is information indicating mast cells have an important role in allergic esophagus and stomach problems.

Selected References:

The, FO et al. "Intestinal handling-induced mast cell activation and inflammation in human postoperative ileus." Gut 2008; 57:33-40

Wallon, C et al. "Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) regulates macromolecular permeability via mast cells in normal human colonic biopsies in vitro." Gut 2008; 57:50-58.

Jakate, S. "Mastocytic Enterocolitis: Increased mucosal mast cells in chronic intractable diarrhea." Arch Pathol Lab Med 2006; 130:362-367.

Copyright 2008 Dr. Scot M. Lewey http://www.thefooddoc.com

Medications for ulcerarive colitis do not cure ulcerative colitis itself. But they can help provide some relief for the pain and discomfort caused by symptoms. One of the other things medications can do for you is help you attain remission - and hold it.

The following medications for ulcerative colitis are used most often by doctors.

Sulfasalazine - Sulfasalazine combines two other drugs, sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicyclic acid, which is often simply called 5-ASA. The role of sulfapyridine is to transport 5-aminosalicyclic acid to the intestines. But sulfapyridine has a variety of possible effects like headaches, nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea.

Aminosalicylates - There's also 5-ASA in this medication but no sulfapyridine. Therefore, it has no side effects and can be taken by those who can't take aminosalyicylates.. Aminosalicylates are made from salicylic acid, and there's evidence they have antioxidant properties. Your doctor can suggest several different methods for administering aminosalicylates: by mouth, by suppository, of with an enema. This group of medications is usually first treatment for individuals with colitis. They can also provide some relief when the patient suffers a relapse.

Corticosteroids - These medications include prednisone, methylprednisone, and hydrocortisone. Their primary benefit is that they reduce inflammation. Cortisteroids generally work best with patients who have moderate to severe cases. Delivery methods include enema, suppository, or a pill taken orally. They can also be administered intravenously.. Your doctor will recommend a delivery method based on where the inflammation is located in your colon. Certicosteroids are better when used in the short term. But they have been known to cause side effects in the long term, including weight gain, risk of infection. mood swings, hypertension, facial hair, diabetes, bone mass loss, and acne.

Immunomodulators - These have an effect on the immune system that reduces swelling and inflammation. Corticosteroids are usually recommended when corticosteroids and 5-ASA's haven't worked, or when the patient has become dependent of corticosteroids. They're popular with many patients because they are taken by mouth. However, they take a long time to work compared to other drugs, possibly as long as six months before the patient gets the full benefit.

Cyclosporine A - Patients who are suffering from active, severe cases are often treated with this drug. It may also be administered to those who have not had success with intravenous methods. Cyclosporine is often combined with 6-MP or azathioprine. While treatment with these medications is progressing, the patient may also need other drugs to help relax, get relief from pain,andr combat diarrhea or infection.

Once again, doctors know of no long-lasting cure for ulcerative colitis. However, medications for ulcerative colitis can help prevent flare ups and keep down inflammation. Plus, they can reduce or delay the need for surgery.

Your doctor will evaluate a number of factors in deciding on the appropriate ulcerative colitis medication for you. Among these factors are

* how much discomfort your symptoms are causing
* complications that could arise
* any side effects you may have to face
* other ulcerative colitis medications that have worked - or not worked - previously

Although many similarities exist from one case to another, ulcerative colitis affects different individuals in different ways. So it's possible your physician may have to try a number of therapies before finding one that will be best for you.

When you colon is not working properly it not only affects your digestive system but the entire body as well. The main job performed by the colon is removal of water from feces and then to eliminate the feces out of the body. When the excretion of the feces is hampered there can be a serious build up of toxins in the body that makes you sick because they seep back into the body and are circulated by the bloodstream and your body begins to have allergic conditions.

As time moves on the colon begins to slow down and becomes damaged and can lead to serious conditions such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and Crohn's disease. This build of toxins is also thought to be responsible for some cancers like bowel and colon cancer.

Are there signals that you need a colon cleanse?

There are telltale signs that inform you when your colon is not removing waste efficiently. You need to know them so you can go for a colon cleanse before it is too late. Below are seven common signs that clear warnings that you need to do a detoxification because your colon is clogged.

1. You wake up tired and sluggish even after you have had up to eight hours of sleep.


2. You struggle to lose weight without success even when you are eating a diet that has a normal amount of calories.


3. You have a pale skin that has spots and possibly struggling with acne that never seems to go away.


4. You do not have daily and regular bowel movements or your bowel movement is generally liquid or on the contrary you excrete just a few pellets and that is after a long struggle in the bathroom.


5. Your bowel movements have the consistency of heavy paste


6. You have bad breath consistently and foul body odor even though you practice the best hygiene you know how.


7. You are always coming down with this ailment or that one.

The list of causes of a clogged colon is topped by bad diet practices. A diet that is consistently low in fiber causes blockages and slow moving feces. The reason is that fiber is not digestible; therefore it moves through the digestive system and acts like a broom sweeping the bowel together with the bulking up feces. The bulked up feces move out of your bowels effortlessly.

When your diet is lacking in fiber it causes an internal sludge to build up in your colon. Finally this sticky harmful substance will no longer let anything pass on and constipation is the end result. When there is fiber in the diet it goes through the digestive tract like a drain cleaner taking away everything that it finds in its wake.

So how do you keep you colon clean? Cleanse your system through a colon cleanse and then keep healthy with a high fiber diet.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis, is an inflammation of the intestines in the digestive system. These ailments cause the intestines to form ulcers and swellings, and scars. The most widespread symptoms of IBD are diarrhea, acute abdominal pain, cramping, fever and weariness. Diet and nutrition may play a vital role in IBD management to avoid becoming malnourished and severe weight loss.

Recommended IBD Diet for People with Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis:

• Drinking eight (8) to ten (10) glasses to prevent dehydration and constipation.
• Your doctor or your trusted dietitian may propose a daily multivitamin-mineral supplement to replenish lost nutrients in the body whilst experiencing IBD disease.
• Have a food intake that is high in fiber when IBD is still manageable like grain products, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Cooking and steaming the vegetables before eating is more tolerable than eating them raw for most patients.
• During a disease flare, lower intake of high fiber foods and pursue a low fiber diet or even a low residue diet may give the bowel a rest and reduce symptoms.
• Refrain away from lactose-containing foods like as dairy products if you are lactose intolerance, or else, you may have lactase enzymes and lactase pretreated foods.
• It is essential to maintain nourishing your body even at some point of a disease flare. You may have small meals taken frequently in a day. Eating a diet that is high in protein such as lean meats, fish and eggs, may aid you alleviate symptoms of IBD. Your registered dietitian may give you pre-digested nutritional drinks (an elemental diet) to give your bowel a form of relaxation and recover lost nutrients to allow the body to recuperate.
• Reduce coffee, alcohol and sorbitol (a kind of sweetener usually used in making ice creams) as these may aggravate IBD symptoms.
• Reduce intake of foods that has high gas contents like those vegetables that belongs to the cabbage family (broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and brussels sprouts). Additionally, dried peas and lentils, onions, chives, and peppers, and even carbonated drinks should also be taken with limitations.
• Lower fat intake if a portion of the intestines has been removed by virtue of Crohn's surgery. High fat foods typically cause diarrhea and gas build up on the body.
• If the ileum in the small intestines has been resected, an injection of Vitamin B12 injection may be needed.
• According to some studies fish and flax seed oil may aid you manage IBD. Some also cites the part of prebiotics like psyllium in the treatment of the ailment. Alas, probiotics may also be useful in the recovery of the intestines from inflammation and damage.