For those who are trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle, supplements can be an important part of their health regimen. Whether addressing specific health concerns (like cardiovascular health) or more general health concerns that come with aging (like eye health), people’s reasons for adding supplements can be varied. And while making sure you get the necessary vitamins and minerals is important for everyone, one group of people may need to pay even more attention to this need.
For people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), missing out on the nutrients that many take for granted is a daily concern.
There are several illnesses that fall under this categorization. For example, Crohn’s Disease is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that usually affects the end of the small bowel and the beginning of the colon. However, it can impact any part of the GI tract. Ulcerative colitis is another IBD condition, but it is limited to the colon or large intestine.
The symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and pain and constipation; these are generally related to inflammation of the GI tract. Other symptoms associated with IBD include loss of appetite, weight loss and fatigue. For a full list of symptoms, visit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America.
While the disease itself is incurable, it is treatable. Diet can play a role in flare-ups of the illness. Some foods are better than others when it comes to being easy on the digestive system.
Even with careful attention to diet, because of the loss of appetite and weight loss, people who suffer from IBD may also fail to get the nutrients that are essential to health. In those instances, a supplement may be a good option.
