Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease which causes inflammation, sores or ulcers in your digestive tract. Initially, the condition starts in the rectum, but over time it may affect the colon and the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis can be draining for the person that has it and can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications.
What are the symptoms?
In most cases, the symptoms develop over time, however, they may come and go.
Symptoms include:
Diarrhoea, often with blood or pus
Rectal bleeding
Abdominal pain
Cramping
Rectal Pain
Anaemia
Urgency to defecate
Inability to defecate despite urgency
Weight loss
Fatigue
Fever
Causes
There is no known cause for Ulcerative Colitis. However, it is likely the cause is related to having an overstimulated immune system. Anyone, at any age, can get the condition, however, the chances are slightly increased if you:
Have a family with IBD
Are between 15 - 30 years old, or older than 60
Are Jewish
Eat a high-fat diet
Use frequent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
Diagnosis
A physical examination will take place, after this, there may be a variety of tests ordered, such as:
Blood tests for Anemia
Stool samples
Imaging tests of your colon or rectum (MRI or CT scans)
Endoscopic tests
How it is treated conventionally?
While it has no known cure, several new treatments can greatly reduce signs and symptoms of the disease and bring about long-term remission.
How does Surrey Centre for Nutrition work with Ulcerative Colitis?
Gastrointestinal autoimmunity is very specific in terms of a functional and nutritional approach. As with other forms of autoimmunity we need to identify the underlying causative factors and triggers, we need to know what is triggering the inflammation that is present in UC. We will look at diet and which foods may be resulting in inflammation of the gut, whilst also looking at the microbial ecology of the gut, by which I mean what is the balance of beneficial bacteria and non beneficial bacteria, and are there any pathogens such as yeasts, or parasites present which may be mediating inflammatory processes. Much evidence points to an imbalance in the bacterial ecology of the gut resulting in an autoimmune attack of the colon.
We will use functional lab tests to identify specific food reactivities, along with comprehensive stool testing. Following which specific dietary and supplement protocols are recommended, along with lifestyle protocols such as stress reduction, sleep optimisation and the role of exercise. All of which is used to target the imbalanced and triggers we have identified.
Are you ready to work with us to reach your health goals?
If you or someone you know is suffering from the symptoms or conditions listed above, Surrey Centre for Nutrition may be able to help. We typically work with clients for 3-6 months depending on your health concerns. Are you interested in working with us?
Book a discovery call to see how the Surrey Centre for Nutrition can help
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