Ulcerative Colitis and the Role of Candida

One of the main causes of ulcerative colitis is the overgrowth of Candida, a gut flora. The inflammation of the colon, which is the main characteristic of ulcerative colitis, is due to the body's immune response against the proliferation of Candida.

A disease of the large intestine, ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease which is accompanied by severe inflammation of the colon and rectum accompanied by ulcers and open sores. Its major symptoms include diarrhea with bloody, mucus lined, watery stool and abdominal cramps. Rectal bleeding, anemia, weight loss, fatigue, nutritional imbalance, and even joint pains and arthritis are also some of its associated symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is often confused with Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome due to the similarities in symptoms and often becomes difficult to diagnose. Crohn's disease is also an inflammatory bowel disease but occurs mainly in the small intestine. Irritable bowel syndrome on the other hand is a functional disorder.

Though no particular cause of the disease has been found till now, ulcerative colitis is regarded as an autoimmune disease i.e. in which the body's immune system attacks itself. Actually the attack is not on the body but is triggered by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. A common gut flora, Candida usually is quite harmless. It is fed upon by probiotics, which are friendly bacteria that help kill harmful disease causing agents. When probiotics fall in number due to overuse of antibiotics, the yeast proliferates and takes over all healthy microbes.

Normally resident in the intestinal tract, genitals, throat and mouth, Candida can penetrate the intestinal lining and make its way to various organs of the body through the blood stream. Releasing several toxins in the body and the initiator of many illnesses, the overgrowth of Candida triggers the body's immune system into launching an attack which results in many chronic diseases like ulcerative colitis. The immune response to Candida leads to the inflammation of the colon resulting in colitis. The inflammation is actually a defensive weapon of the immune system in order to prevent the yeast from penetrating the intestinal wall. Hence, ulcerative colitis develops in the course of fighting a harmful microbe.

Being attached to the inner wall of the intestine, Candida provides a stimulus for the immune system to respond. The inflammation can be prolonged and can lead to further aggravation of the disease if the Candida overgrowth is not cleaned out properly. It is usually quite difficult to remove Candida as it suppresses the body's immune response on itself. Taking antibiotics further worsens the situation. Also foods rich in sugar, alcohol, cheese, chocolate, caffeine, nuts and fermented foods help in further proliferation of Candida and should be avoided.

For ulcerative colitis resulting from Candida overgrowth, the only way to heal the body is to get rid of the yeast. A holistic Candida cleanse goes a long way in healing the body. Treatment usually involves taking the right diet along with the prescription medication Nystatin which kills intestinal yeast like Candida and thereby removes the cause of ulcerative colitis.

How to Use Chlorella To Support Your Health

What Are The Major Chlorella Health Benefits?

Chlorella is more than 3.6 billion years old. In nature it is found in stagnant waters rich in organic matter and even in terrestrial soil that is moist enough. However, many algae are grown in controlled freshwater pools.

Even though, chlorella benefits are very well known, there is a digestibility problem due to its cell wall structure. Fortunately, with using different methods it is achieved 80% digestibility of algae. Therefore, a mechanical milling process is of great value, because the procedure does not change the quantity and quality of nutrients that contain chlorine. So, you can enjoy in all chlorella health benefits.

Chlorella health influence is high due to the presence of vitamins such as beta carotene, the whole group B-vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E.

Furthermore it is also rich in mineral matter such as phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, calcium, manganese, copper, zinc and cobalt.

Chlorella contains the maximum of chlorophyll maximum in comparison to all other species of green algae. Thus, it is not difficult to see from where its name comes from. So-called "green blood" is also well known for a number of beneficial effects such as detoxifying the body, cleansing the gastrointestinal tract and improving the composition of blood. However, chlorella health benefits can be seen in various pathological conditions, such as asthma, hemophilia, stomach ulcers...

Scientific studies showed that regular consumption of chlorine increases the body's resistance and improve overall health. One of the layers of cell walls binds heavy metals and synthetic toxins, allowing their removal from the body. Its function of cleaning is strengthened by the fact that it also promotes the activity of the liver.

Many studies have shown other chlorella health roles:

• Regulates digestion
• Strengthens the immune system
• Promotes cell regeneration due to its ability to be divided into 4-8 equal parts every 20 hours.
• Reduces inflammation as inflammation of the stomach lining
• Inhibits the development of chronic degenerative diseases, especially in blood vessels and joints (e.g. arteriosclerosis, arthritis)
• Has beneficial effect on blood pressure
• Reduces levels of bad cholesterol in the blood
• Acts as strong antioxidant
• Has positive impact on many chronic diseases, such as fibromyalgia, hypertension, ulcerative colitis,...
• Maintains the proper pH in our body
• Maintain appropriate blood sugar levels

Consumption of chlorella has very few side effects, but in allergic people could come to the occurrence of allergic symptoms such as rashes or eczema. It is recommended to start with consumption gradually and in small quantities. Results of increased peristalsis lead to slight nausea or unpleasant sensations in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, gradually increase your daily dose to a level where you will feel the desired effects.

Before you buy any chlorella, make sure you know where it comes from, as there are always supplements available by those just looking to take your money.

Aloe Vera Gel Can Be Used to Calm Ulcers

Have you tried sulfasalazine, various corticosteroids, combinations of immunosuppressive drugs and even considered partial removal of your colon to treat your ulcerative colitis? If you will do absolutely anything to cure your grave condition why not give Aloe Vera a try? It is possible that Aloe could rid you from the bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, fever, anemia, dehydration, constipation, arthritis, liver inflammation or skin sores; whatever the ulcer symptoms you project are.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory digestive tract ailment that causes severe inflammation in digestive system, generally in the large intestines (colon) and the rectum. While it is believed that there is no permanent cure for Ulcerative Colitis alternative medicines have been widely used to treat this disease. One of the many natural remedies suggested for this disease is Aloe-Vera Oral Gel as studies have found that it has an anti-inflammatory effect.

The role, efficiency and safety, of Aloe vera in the treatment of mild-to-moderate active ulcerative colitis was studied using a double-blind, random sample. 30 patients were given100 milliliters of oral aloe vera gel and 14 patients 100 milliliters of a placebo twice daily for 4 weeks by researchers. In patients who took aloe vera, clinical remission, response and improvement was seen in nine (30 percent), 11 (37 percent) and 14 (47 percent) respectively when compared with one (7 percent), one (7 percent) and two (14 percent) respectively in patients who took the placebo. This concludes that aloe vera is safe to be ingested.

Aloe is not known to produce any allergic reactions. However, when taking Aloe internally you must avoid using diuretics, digoxin, steroids, drugs that cause potassium loss and drugs for irregular heartbeat. Also if you take blood sugar medication you should refrain from using Aloe-vera as it may cause very low blood sugar levels.

What Are The Risks For Crohn's Disease Sufferers?

Crohn's disease is an inflammation in the digestive tract. This can involve your mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, bowel, large intestine and anus. Your digestive tract is the body's lifeline. It helps to breakdown your food, absorb the nutrients in your body and also eliminate the waste. With the presence of this disease, these functions are largely affected. The disease is largely seen in the age group of 15 years-30 years. It is however even found in younger children as pediatric Crohn's disease.

The symptoms found are...

• Diarrhea
  


• Abdominal pain
  


• Nausea
  


• Vomiting
  


• Constipation (in some cases)
  


• Anemia
  


• Fevers
  


• Chills
  


• Malabsorption
  


• Weight loss
  

Environmental factors have been implicated in Crohn's disease. It is seen more in temperate areas of developed countries like North America and Australia. Genetic factors are also found to play a role in the incidence of this disease. About 10% to 15% of patients have a family history of Crohn's disease. Another 5%-7% suffer from ulcerative colitis. There is a high prevalence of this disease seen among siblings.

Risk Factors

Crohn's disease affects both men and women. The risk factors are as follows...

Age- It can strike at any age. The condition is likely to develop when you are young. The highly affected age group is between the ages of 20-30.
Ethnicity- Whites have the highest risk of the disease. It can even affect Jews and Europeans.

Family History- You are at a higher risk if you have a close relative such as parent or a sibling with the disease. Your risk is higher (about 30%) if your sibling is suffering from this condition.

Area where you live- It is more common in urban and industrialized areas. This can be because people in such areas are likely to consume diet rich in fats or take more refined foods. People in Northern climates are also prone to this disease condition.

Smoking- You are more likely to develop Crohn's disease if you smoke. If you continue to smoke even after diagnosis, your treatment can be less effective and your illness can worsen.

Complications

The following is a list of possible complications that can result from Crohn's disease...

• Perforation of the colon
  


• Abscess in the colon, abdomen
  


• Narrowing of the colon causing obstruction
  


• Toxic swollen colon
  


• Fistulas- can lead to recurrent infections of the urinary genital tracts
  


• Infection of the blood (sepsis)
  


• Osteoporosis
  


• Gallstones
  


• Joint pain and arthritis
  


• Colon cancer
  


• Nutritional problems like weight loss and reduced muscle mass
  


• Eye inflammations or infections
  


• Mouth ulcers, gum inflammation and dental cavities
  


• Anemia
  


• Liver damage
  


• Depression and anxiety
  


• Blood clots
  


• Skin rashes and ulcers
  

Crohn's disease sufferers have high levels of fluid loss due to diarrhea. This chronic dehydration can affect their kidney functions. So it is important for these patients to given attention to their fluid intake especially during warmer times of the year. They need to carefully evaluate their diet and select foods which help in reducing the symptoms and promote an environment for healing the GI tract.

Crohn's disease is a chronic condition that can recur at different times during your lifetime. You need to ensure you give proper management and treatment to help you deal with the disease condition. You need to try and improve your quality of life by accepting the situation and learn to cope with the condition in a better manner.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Why is it Dangerous?

Many people mistake inflammatory bowel disease for irritable bowel syndrome. They are actually two completely different issues, although they both affect overall colon health. Inflammatory bowel disease can encompass many different disorders which are different types of bowel irritations that include Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both of these are ulcer causing conditions where Crohn's contains ulcers in the intestines and ulcerative colitis means ulcers in the colon.

What Can Cause Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

There is a great deal of speculation on what can bring on this condition. Some feel it is genetic and others believe that the immune system is not working properly. Finally, it may be caused by germs or other foreign material in the body.

What are the Indications of Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Unfortunately, there are no cut and dry indications that one is suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. This is because the symptoms depend upon the type IBD that is present. Some of the most prevalent indications are urgency to evacuate the bowels, cramping, and pain in the stomach. In some cases there can be loose stools with blood. Many lose their appetites.

While these symptoms can be very uncomfortable, there can also be some serious consequences if this condition is left without treatment. There can be bleeding in the colon and bowel and in some cases, toxic megacolon can be present. Toxic megacolon can be dangerous because is characterized by a very dilated colon and accompanied by abdominal bloating and pain, along with fever and even shock.

Those who are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis are going to be more likely to acquire certain types of cancer. In some cases, there can be other complications associated with inflammatory bowel disease. The following are some of the possible complications:

Pain in the Joints

Loss of Bone Structure

Problems with Eyes

Liver/Kidney Issues

Skin Problems

There are two ways that a physician can determine if a patient has inflammatory bowel disease. The first is testing stool samples. The other is checking the colon via a camera which can detect if there are any lesions on it.

How to Treat IBD

This first recommendation for treating IBD is changing the diet of the patient. Lowering fiber and dairy foods is going to be the first step. De-stressing and taking better care of the overall health is also a must.

In some cases, medications that help to reduce irritation and swelling may be offered to the patient as a way to get relief. Others may need antibiotics. Finally, pain medications can help to ease the discomfort of having inflammatory bowel diseases.

Because of the loose bowels and the diarrhea, many people with IBD can become dehydrated. This is a major concern. In severe cases, a hospital stay may be in order to get fluids quickly into the body. Sometimes, an operation is the only option for restoring the patient to a healthy, normal life.

Naturopathic Colon Cleansers and Cleansing Methods

Many people would ask: What is the best way to detoxify the body and consequently lose weight? Alternative medicine advocates will advice colon cleansing treatments such as cleansing supplements, oxygen-based cleansers, enemas, and colon hydrotherapy.

There are a lot of different cleansing supplements out in the market today and may come in tablet or capsule form. Generally, they are of various organic ingredients that are believed to have colon cleansing properties. Each one may vary in content although there many would contain somewhat similar ingredients.

Oxygen-based cleansers, on the other hand, are composed of oxygen-based chemicals. Typically, the cleansers contain magnesium oxide and magnesium peroxide. This type of cleanser is believed to oxidize and melt away hardened waste matters and mucoid plaque that have accumulated in the intestinal tract. By introducing nascent oxygen into the colon and consequently into the bloodstream, the compacted toxic wastes are liquefied and are bound for elimination.

Enemas are treatments that flush out the impacted wastes in the bowel with sterilized water. These treatments were popularly used in Europe during the 17th century. However, this type of cleansing treatment only reaches the lower part of the intestinal tract but not the entire length of it.

Another colon cleansing treatment that involves gentle and gradual introduction of sterilized water into the colon is called colon hydrotherapy, also known as a colonic treatment, or colonic irrigation. This cleansing procedure is a thorough one compared to an enema since water is allowed to enter the entire stretch of the colon. Thus, this procedure actually uses up to 5 gallons of water. Water is flushed in and out of the body several times during the entire session to efficiently remove the waste matters. During the treatment, the abdomen is massaged to loosen the wastes that are stuck on the colon walls. As a result, accumulated toxic wastes that tend to cause various illnesses and additional weight are thoroughly expelled from the body.

However, the treatment can only be given to people who do not have serious medical conditions such as appendicitis, colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, severe hemorrhoids, congestive heart failure, abdominal hernia, severe anemia, heart disease, and intestinal tumors. Also, people who just recently underwent colon surgery are not advised to have a colonic irrigation.

The methods above may have tons of benefits, but they should not be treated as weight loss programs. Any thing that is done in excess has undesirable effects.

And for those who are not yet ready to try out any of the cleansing treatments, they may choose to alter their lifestyle if they truly desire overall body detox. Discipline is the key. They should start getting used to diets high in fiber, and less in sugar and fat. So, that means avoid eating processed foods or fast foods. Start eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, and perhaps seafoods. Also, start drinking lots of water, at least 2 liters a day.

Detox the Natural Way With Herbal Fiberblend

There are many methods available to detox the body. Enemas and Colonic Irrigations can provide fast relief. Those who use these treatments may notice a feeling of more energy afterwards. Can Herbal Supplements enhance this process?

Cancer Of The Colon

The Bowel Cancer & Digestive Research Institute of Australia states, "Colon Cancer is the second most common cause of death amongst Cancers in Australia". According to the American Cancer Society, "6% of Americans will contract Colon or Rectal cancer during their lifetime". While surgery can often help those with cancer, perhaps we should look at prevention to avoid situations like colon bags replacing a part of the large intestine!

Why Detoxification?

in his book, "The Detox Diet", Elson Haas, M.D. defines a toxin as " Any substance that creates irritating and/or harmful effects in the body, undermining our health and stressing our biochemical or organ functions.".

A Body Overloaded with Toxins Can Result in a Number of Symptoms, including Constipation, Poor Digestion, Headaches, Gas, Weight Gain, Fatigue, Excessive Mucus, Poor Concentration, Poor Skin, Poor Memory, Depression, Stomach Bloat, Body Odor, and Bad Breath.

Many Health Practitioners Relate Toxins To Specific Diseases. R.A. Buist, M.D., (International Clinical Nutrition; states that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may be related to toxin exposure. Dr Buist is an advocate of herbal Fiberblend and I have heard him lecture on the subject some years ago. Multiple chemical sensitivity and Fibromyalgia (muscle and joint pain) may also be environment-related diseases.

Why Do We Need More Fiber?

Constipation is often due to insufficient fiber in the diet. You May Think One Bowel Movement a Day is Normal. In Fact 3 Bowel Movements is Optimal to Remove Toxins and Cleanse the Colon of Harmful Toxins. Toxins Build up in Your Colon, and That is the Cause of Colon Disease.

Dennis Burkitt, in his book, "Don't Forget the Fibre in Your Diet" revolutionised the concept of colon health by recommending everyone add extra fiber to their diets as a way to improve digestive tract function.

Constipation Can Cause Many Ailments Including: Appendicitis, Hernia, Diverticulitis, Hemorroids, Headaches, Insomnia, Obesity, Indigestion and Varicose Veins. Harmful Toxins Held in the Bowel Can Lead to Diabetes, Candidiasis, Ulcerative Colitis, Meningitis, Migraines, Gas and Bloating.

A Herbal Fibre Blend

A Herbal Fiberblend combines the soluble fiber psyllium with 17 cleansing herbs providing a simple way to cleanse. Studies have found that in populations with high-fiber diets, have significantly lower incidences of colon cancer, appendicitis, and diverticulosis. Industrialized countries, which largely have diets high in fat and low in fiber, have higher incidences of these diseases.The addition of specific herbs allows so much more than just provide bowel bulk.

An example of a few herbs considered necessary in a good Herbal Fibre Blend. Alfalfa, Black walnut hulls, Cascara Sagrada, Hibiscus Marshmallow root & Yucca. You should at least have these in any Herbal Cleansing product you sue.

More Than Plain Fiber

When we add a few herbs to Psyllium, we get a formula that kills many intestinal parasites, and gently reconditions the colon over time. While colonic irrigations and enemas certainly do a good job of cleaning the bowel, there are long term benefits associated with regular use of fibre plus herbs to repair deterioration that naturally occurs over the years.

Conclusion

As you age, looking after your health becomes increasingly important. Colon health is a necessary part of this and if you don't know that already, you will unless you take preventive measures! In our modern world, this is becoming more important than ever.