The Benefits of Psyllium for Treating Crohn’s Disease
Recent studies have shown positive benefits of Psyllium in Crohn’s Disease, where it acts as a probiotic helping to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines.
In a multi-center clinical trial, researchers determined that psyllium supplements might be as effective as mesalamine, a prescription anti-inflammatory drug, for maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis, a serious intestinal disorder.
In addition, many physicians recommend the use of psyllium as a bulking agent for mild to moderate cases of diarrhea from either ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
The two ways psyllium husks benefit crohn’s disease symptoms are:
1. Prebiotics
Beneficial bacteria love to feed on fiber, whereas, less desirable bacteria like to eat refined sugars and fats – which Psyllium may help reduce within your digestive system.
Since less desirable flora in the gut must compete with the helpful microbes already in residence, daily probiotic use can be an effective measure to help us keep the balance of intestinal flora tipped in favor of beneficial flora.
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There is mounting scientific evidence that the symbiotic relationship between prebiotics and probiotics significantly contribute to health. Together, they:
- have anti-carcinogenic activity.
- have anti-microbial activity.
- may lower triglyceride levels.
- stabilize blood glucose levels.
- boost the immune system.
- help improve mineral absorption and balance.
- rid the gut of harmful microorganisms.
- help prevent constipation and diarrhea.
A combination of probiotic and prebiotics may improve the quality of life for sufferers of Crohn’s disease says a new study from Japan.
Consumption of both the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum and prebiotic psyllium for four weeks led to improvements in the ‘quality of life’ of 120 people suffering from Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease.
Researchers from the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo report that individual supplementation with the probiotic or the prebiotic did not produce statistically significant improvements in the quality of life, and that only the synbiotic approach was effective. The results were published in the journal Nutrition.
2. Soluble fiber
Psyllium is a soluble fiber that comes from a plant most commonly grown in Central Asia and India, and is derived from the husks of a seed grain. Although it is often labeled a laxative, it is not. It is highly absorbable and absorbs liquid and corresponding fecal matter in the intestines to form a larger, more substantial stool. Soluble fiber becomes gelatinous and sticky in water. It is not absorbed in the small bowel – It is broken down in the large bowel and becomes a food source for the bacteria that live in the colon. These healthy bacteria bulk up the stool, creating larger softer stool which is easier to pass. Other soluble fibers include oats, oat bran, fruit pectins, beans, and guar gum.
Psyllium acts as a true dietary fiber supplement, not just a laxative or anti-diarrhea. Unlike many laxatives, this supplement actually is soothing and healing to the intestinal tract.The fibrous compounds in psyllium husk absorb excess water, providing relief from mild to moderate diarrhea. People experiencing loose bowel movements due to a chronic bowel disease such as crohn’s disease can get relief from these symptoms without the risk of developing constipation.
Because it acts to treat both diarrhea and constipation, psyllium does not cause people to simply swing in the “opposite” symptomatic direction. For sufferers of Crohn’s disease, a condition characterized by intermittent episodes of constipation or diarrhea, psyllium can be a very helpful alternative to conventional treatment protocols.
How to take Psyllium
Psyllium is mixed with water; since it thickens quickly, it must be consumed immediately. If just beginning to take psyllium, start with a lower dose (one-half to one teaspoon) mixed with 8-ounces of water daily. The dose can be stepped up to two teaspoons and two 8-ounce glasses of water daily – as needed. Take either in the morning or before bedtime.
Take it with at minimum 8 ounces of water. Generally speaking, the more water, the better the absorption properties of the psyllium fiber in your intestinal tract.
Note: It is very important to drink plenty of water throughout the day in addition to the 8-ounce glass full (at least six to eight full glasses of water). Psyllium soaks up water in the digestive tract. A shortage of water could cause constipation or intestinal blockage.
Related Articles:
The Benefits of Turmeric – Curcumin for Treating Crohn’s Disease
The Benefits of Probiotics In the Treatment of Crohn’s Disease
