Whether we want to maintain or regain our health, the gastrointestinal (GI) system is central to our efforts. Our "guts" are equivalent to a plant's roots. It is in our intestines where we interact most intimately with our environment - where we literally transform materials from our environment into us! As the source of our water and nourishment and our primary channel of elimination, they constitute our "first line of defense" against disease. In fact, sixty percent of our immune response is in our GI tract.
Dysfunction of the digestive system is linked with most chronic and degenerative diseases. Traditional healers have always placed great emphasis on maintaining healthy digestive function and elimination through the bowel. In contrast, modern biomedicine has, until recently, disregarded the role of the gut in health. It has been far more prestigious to study the circulation, glands, and nerves, instead of our lowly "intestines."
Modern medical research, however, is confirming the link between intestinal problems and chronic illness. Research has linked a wide variety of health problems with intestinal inflammation. These include arthritis, allergies, eczema and other skin diseases, some cancers, asthma, and even "mental" diseases like depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Research is also proving that there is a basis for our "gut instincts." Science has shown that there are complex networks of nerves and neurotransmitters in our intestines and that they communicate vital information to our brain. The path from the brain to the gut also plays a strong role in the development of inflammatory bowel disorders. Strong emotions and stress responses are well-known triggers of intestinal "dis-stress."
When the small intestine becomes inflamed, we are no longer able to process nutrients and absorb them properly. This gives rise to colitis and other inflammatory bowel disorders, including Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis. All of these diseases involve a breakdown of the intestinal mucosa due to inflammatory processes.
Inflammation and swelling in the intestines lead to an increased absorption of toxic materials into the blood and lymph streams, a condition known as leaky gut syndrome. As we'll discover in this issue, this gut leakage creates a cascade of negative reactions that adversely affect every system of the body. We'll also learn what causes this inflammation and what can be done to correct it naturally.
A Quick Guide to Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD)
In addition to the suggestions for general intestinal inflammation found in this article, here are some specific supplements many people have found helpful in dealing with specific inflammatory disorders of the intestines.
Colitis
Colitis is inflammation of the colon and small intestine. Intestinal Soothe and Build and Slippery Elm are very soothing for this condition.
Crohn's Disease
This is a severe form of colitis which causes fistulas to form in the colon. There is atrophy and ulceration of the intestines. In addition to the aforementioned products, more minerals are needed; specifically Mineral Chi Tonic and Magnesium.
Ulcerative Colitis
Similar to Crohn's, except that it starts in the rectum and affects only the colon. Gastro Health and Aloe Vera Juice can be helpful here.
Celiac Disease
A chronic disease that causes breakdown of the intestines due to a gluten allergy. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and other grains such as oats, barley and rye. This requires avoiding gluten foods and taking extra enzymes such as Protease to aid breakdown of foods.
Diverticulitis
Inflammation of pockets in the colon. CLT-X is a soothing combination here.