Every person’s health story is different. The information below explains common causes and contributing factors for this issue, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all prescription.
As a qualified naturopath practising in Adelaide’s CBD, I take the time to understand your unique circumstances, use targeted testing when needed, and design a personalised care plan so you can feel and function at your best.
Crohn’s Disease
This chronic inflammatory condition is set in the background of any of the following events or tendencies:
- Immune disorders-initiating an autoimmune reaction.
- Intestinal parasites-candida albicans, mycobacterium paratuberculosis, or gut bacterial infections have been implicated.
- General imbalance of the intestinal flora- especially from frequent antibiotic use.
- Contraceptive pill- considerably increases the risk.
- Intestinal permeability- often becomes worse during relapses.
- Food sensitivities- leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal wall.
- Low adrenal function- related to long term stress.
- Genetic predisposition.
- High sugar intake in the diet- elimination of sugar results in improved symptoms in 80% of sufferers.
- High intake of saturated fats is a risk factor.
What can you do to manage your symptoms?
Diet
- Screen for your specific food triggers. I recommend the IgG blood test for food reactivity.
- Eat several small meals daily rather than three large meals
- Increase water consumption to 2 to 3 litres daily, using pure filtered water.
- Ensure your diet is high in natural fibre.
- Consume generous amounts of foods high in good oils such as fish, flaxseed oil, olive oil, raw almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, pepitas, and avocado.
- Eliminate simple sugars from your diet.
- Reduce all saturated fatty foods such as milk, cream, ice cream, cheese, sausages, chops, fatty meats, pastries, and deep-fried foods.
- Ginger- use fresh or powdered ginger in cooking for its anti-inflammatory effect
Targeted treatment will be prescribed following tests for food reactivity, possible gut bugs, and blood tests (especially for nutrient deficiencies).
