While it is always best for the condition to be managed in consultation with a medical professional, there are some Ulcerative Colitis supplements and home remedies which many sufferers have found useful in managing symptoms during a flare up. As so often with this conditions, their effectiveness may vary between individuals.
Some Ulcerative Colitis supplements may be recommended by a doctor, due to a deficiency in nutrients caused by the diarrhoea. These may include folic acid, vitamin B12 and calcium. If the patient is suffering from anaemia, iron tablets may be recommended along with additional vitamin C to aid the absorption. Omega-3 is found naturally in oily fish but can also be taken as a supplement. Its anti-inflammatory properties has eased the symptoms of inflammatory conditions like Ulcerative Colitis in some patients.
Although there is no conclusive evidence, herbal remedies may be effective Ulcerative Colitis supplements and home remedies. Among those worth trying are curcumin, found in turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory capabilities. Aloe Vera gel is an anti-oxidant with anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Boswellia is another power anti-inflammatory herb and can have a similar affect to conventional Ulcerative Colitis treatments.
Stress does not cause Ulcerative Colitis, but many sufferers find flare ups coincide with periods of stress or that it makes the symptoms more severe. Managing stress is beneficial to general health and is well worth trying as an Ulcerative Colitis home remedy. Techniques such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga and deep breathing can reduce stress. Exercise too can improve well-being and manage some of the complications of the condition such as decreased bone density and muscle weakness. Regular, medium intensity exercise seems to be what works best and over doing it, may make symptoms worse.
With the impact of Ulcerative Colitis supplements and home remedies varying from person to person, it is a good idea for sufferers to keep a record of what measures they try and how it affects their symptoms to discover which of these steps works best for them. While none of these will cure Ulcerative Colitis, they may reduce both the frequency and intensity of flare ups.