4 Natural Remedies for Ulcerative Colitis

4 Natural Remedies for Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that leads to the development of ulcers and inflammation in the digestive tract. It mainly affects the innermost lining of the long intestine and rectum. This condition, if left untreated, can be very debilitating and even life-threatening. In this article, we will focus on learning about a few natural remedies and treatments that can help ease the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

1. Try probiotics
Probiotics are the essential living organisms and bacteria that reside in the digestive tract. They promote the growth of healthy bacteria, which, in turn, helps us manage and maintain a healthy digestive system. Probiotics are found in many foods, but yogurt is one of the most commonly known foods with naturally occurring probiotics. Probiotics can help fight the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. In fact, studies have shown that almost 50% of those suffering from UC had a massive improvement to their overall symptoms after adding probiotics to their meal regime. If interested in getting probiotic supplements, it is best to ask a healthcare professional for suggestions. Note that probiotics do not replace any medication or treatment for UC, it simply helps reduce the condition’s intensity by promoting overall gut health.

2. Exercise can keep inflammation at bay
We already know that exercise has many benefits. It helps keep the heart healthy, promotes blood circulation, and even makes us stronger. But, what many do not know is that exercise can go a long way in tackling the secondary complications related to ulcerative colitis. These complications include a weakened immune system, stress, pain, and even decreased bone density. Individuals can try to indulge in walking, running, cycling, or swimming. Yoga is also helpful in tackling ulcerative colitis as it helps the body relax and promotes digestive health.

3. Changes in one’s meal plans
When it comes to managing ulcerative colitis, it is important to make tons of changes to their meals plans. This includes eating foods that help, avoiding foods that can do harm, and even keeping track of the water and nutrient intake. Those who suffer from UC can start by changing their meal structure. This means moving from three big meals to smaller meals throughout the day. Another thing that helps is drinking plenty of water to avoid loss of electrolytes and severe dehydration. Eating low-fiber foods and avoiding milk products can also go a long way in tackling ulcerative colitis. Individuals can also track their meals by keeping a food journal. Again, making changes in meal plans does not replace medication; it is simply to aid the treatment and ease the condition’s symptoms.

4. Herbal medication can go a long way
Herbal medication is also a great natural mode of treatment for UC. Common herbal remedies for UC include aloe vera gel, wheatgrass juice, Plantago ovate seeds, and Andrographis paniculata extract. Herbal remedies usually support the body’s immune system and can help fight inflammation in the body.