There are several treatments for Crohn’s disease.
Some people who have the condition want to try alternative therapies or a different approach to managing their condition.
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Acupuncture
Acupunctureis a practice that originated in China.
It uses thin needles inserted into the skin at specific points to treat various health conditions.
A meta-analysis from 2018 discussed how acupuncture improved Crohn’s disease symptoms.
However, the study suggested more research is necessary to back up these claims.
Mindfulness Techniques
People with Crohn’s disease are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and stress.
Mindfulness techniquesinclude meditation, focused breathing, yoga, and body scans.
The theory behind this is that mindfulness can reduce stress and inflammation.
It can also support emotional health and the emotional response to certain stressors.
Meditation
Meditationcan quiet the mind, remove distractions, and ease stress.
There arenumerous ways to meditate.
Below are a few types that people with Crohn’s disease can try:
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This process does not cause the person to go into a trance; they never lose their free will.
In people with Crohn’s disease, hypnotherapy may help reduce pain or lessenstress.
Learning to control these body functions may help improve certain health conditions.
A biofeedback training session involves a trained therapist who connects sensors to the body to detect response changes.
Over time, the person will learn how to control these automatic functions.
In people with Crohn’s disease, biofeedback can manage incontinence and constipation.
It can also help lessen stress and anxiety that can occur with the condition as well.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help manage weight, blood pressure, and heart disease.
There is evidence that it also reduces the risk of other health conditions in those withCrohn’s disease.
However, more research on a larger group is necessary to provide more conclusive evidence.
Taking Vitamins and Supplements
People with Crohn’s disease may need vitamins and supplements for one or more reasons.
The condition can cause improper nutrient absorption, decreased appetite, or diarrhea.
The vitamins or minerals that may need to be supplemented are:
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What About Probiotics and Prebiotics?
Probioticsare bacteria or yeast that can be consumed in food or as a supplement.Prebioticsfeed probiotics and promote their growth.
Research suggests probiotics can help restore the gut microbiome and improve Crohn’s disease symptoms.
However, the study notes that more research is necessary to understand how probiotics work with Crohn’s disease.
Other Natural Options
There are many ways to treat Crohn’s disease.
Natural options should be used with any treatments or medications a healthcare provider prescribes.
Some natural options include:
Are There Risks for Complementary Therapies?
Complementary therapies are often viewed as not posing any risks because they are natural or do not involve medication.
Each complementary therapy carries its own risk.
Although the risk is often low, therapies may interact with prescribed medications.
Always contact a healthcare provider before starting a complementary therapy to ensure it is safe.
Work With Your Healthcare Provider
Crohn’s disease treatment varies from person to person.
It’s important to work with yourdoctorto determine the best treatment plan for your situation.
Summary
Crohn’s disease is a complicated condition that requires the treatment guidance of a healthcare provider.
Some may find that they want to try a different treatment outside of traditional medication.
Complementary therapy is an option that can include yoga, meditation, probiotics, and more.
Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a complementary therapy for Crohn’s disease.
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