Th.e Digestive Enzyme Solution

 

When Crohn's damages your intestinal lining, it affects enzyme production.

 

Supplemental digestive enzymes can help by:

• Breaking down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates more efficiently

• Reducing the workload on your compromised digestive system

• Minimising undigested food particles that can irritate

• Supporting better nutrient absorption

 

How to use them:

• Take with each main meal

• Just before or at the start of eating

• Start with lower doses, increase gradually

• Consistency matters more than high doses

 

Natural Support That Actually Works

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Peppermint Oil (Enteric-Coated)

• Proven to reduce gut spasms and cramping

• Available on NHS prescription in some areas (ask your GP)

• Look for enteric-coated capsules (release in the intestines, not stomach)

• Brand example: Colpermin

 

Slippery Elm

• Traditional remedy that coats and soothes the digestive tract

• Available as powder or capsules

• Mix powder with water or add to food

• Take between meals for best effect

 

L-Glutamine

• Amino acid that supports intestinal lining repair

• Some evidence for reducing inflammation

• Available in powder or capsule form

• Take on empty stomach for best absorption

 

Probiotics (Choose Wisely)

• Not all probiotics are equal

• Look for strains with IBD research:

◦ V/SL#3, Symprove

• Avoid during active flares without medical advice

• Quality matters 

◦ refrigerated options are often better

• Expensive but potentially helpful

 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Fish oil or algae-based supplements

• Choose tested, pure products 

◦ heavy metal concerns with cheap fish oils)

• Minimum 1000mg combined EPA/DHA daily

 

Vitamin D

• Many Crohn's patients are deficient

• Supports immune function and bone health

• Particularly important if on steroids long-term

• Get levels tested

◦ supplementation usually necessary

• Aim for 1000-2000 IU daily 

◦ or as advised

 

What to Avoid (The Snake Oil List)

Don't waste money on:

• "Gut cleanses" and detox teas (can trigger severe flares)

• Unproven enzyme blends with proprietary formulas

• Miracle cure supplements with no research backing

• Anything promising to "cure" Crohn's

• Multi-level marketing schemes (if you're being recruited to sell it, run)

• Colonic irrigation (dangerous for Crohn's patients)

If it sounds too good to be true, it is.

 

Avoid "Flavour of the Month" Trends

Social media is full of miracle cures, celebrity diets, and wellness influencers promising that [insert trendy food/supplement] will heal your gut.

 

Reality check:

• If it worked, your consultant would prescribe it

• Testimonials aren't evidence

• Individual responses vary wildly

• Most trends are based on minimal research

• Some can be actively harmful

 

Follow sound science, not social media hype.

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This is an excerpt from The Crohn's Disease Survival Checklist