Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Essential Supplements For Healing The Gut

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Along with providing information on whether supplements for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements.

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can really affect your day-to-day life, bringing challenges like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. While medications are a go-to for managing these symptoms, many people also look into additional ways to support their digestive health.

Nutritional supplements are proving to be a helpful option, potentially easing symptoms, lowering inflammation, and nurturing gut health. In this article, we’ll dive into the benefits of nutritional supplements for those managing IBD, helping you make well-informed choices for your health journey.

What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic inflammatory conditions that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions cause inflammation and damage to the lining of the digestive tract, leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Common symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fatigue, and fever.

In severe cases, IBD can also cause complications such as bowel obstructions, fistulas, and nutritional deficiencies. The exact cause of IBD is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Factors such as genetics, diet, stress, and environmental triggers may contribute to the development and exacerbation of IBD symptoms. Overall, IBD is a complex and challenging condition that requires careful management and ongoing medical care.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases, but Crohn’s can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract with patchy inflammation, while ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum with continuous inflammation.

What Food and Lifestyle Factors Are Important For Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

• Anti-inflammatory Diet: Focus on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid processed foods, high-fat foods, and foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can exacerbate inflammation.
• Fiber Intake: Gradually increase fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support digestive health. However, persons with IBD may need to adjust fiber intake based on their symptoms, as high-fiber foods can sometimes aggravate symptoms during flare-ups.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water, herbal teas, and diluted fruit juices can help maintain hydration levels and support digestive function.
• Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi to help manage stress levels. Stress can exacerbate IBD symptoms, so finding ways to relax and unwind is important.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to support overall health. Exercise can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and boost mood. Aim for a combination of aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
• Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting smoking is essential for managing IBD symptoms. Smoking can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of complications in persons with IBD.
• Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider to help control inflammation and reduce symptoms. It’s important to follow the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare team and attend regular follow-up appointments.
• Nutritional Supplements: In some cases, nutritional supplements may be beneficial for persons with IBD, especially if there are deficiencies in certain vitamins or minerals. Talk to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian about whether supplementation is appropriate for you.
• Sleep Quality: Prioritize good sleep hygiene habits to ensure adequate rest and recovery. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night and establish a regular sleep schedule.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Recommended For Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

• Boswellia: Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) reduces inflammation. [PMC4367210] A 2001 study found that Boswellia was as effective as mesalamine, an anti-inflammatory medication often used in the treatment of IBD. [PMID: 11488449][PMC5588418]
• Zinc Carnosine: Zinc deficiency is common in IBD and increases the risk for poor outcomes. [PMC5177471] Zinc carnosine is especially beneficial for managing IBD during a flare-up because it combines the healing properties of zinc with carnosine’s ability to protect and repair the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting mucosal healing. [PMID: 35659631]
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been shown to reduce gut inflammation and improve symptoms in inflammatory bowel diseases. Research shows that ω3 fatty acids reduce intestinal inflammation, and induce and maintain clinical remission in UC patients. Omega-3s are related to the reduction of proinflammatory cytokines, decrease disease activity, and increase the quality of life of CD patients. [PMC6801729]
• Curcumin: Curcumin is a naturally occurring chemical found in turmeric. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and treat ulcerative colitis when used with mesalamine therapy. [PMID: 25724700]
• Probiotics: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gut condition, divided into Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Researchers have found that combining standard treatment with probiotics might be an option to achieve remission in active Ulcerative Colitis patients. [PMC539443]
• Common Nutrient Deficiencies:
  • Vitamin D: Supplementing with Vitamin D can help reduce the risks of osteoporosis and will play a role in modulating immune responses to decrease inflammation in IBD patients. [PMID: 35396764] Vitamin D deficiency is common in IBD and it should be tested. Vitamin D dosages should be adjusted based on your blood level with many clinicians recommending an optimal Vitamin D level of 50-80 ng/ml. Vitamin D Labs (affiliate link) can be ordered in the NutriScape Lab Shop.
  • B Complex Vitamins (specifically B12 and Folate): In Crohn’s disease, absorption of B12 can be impaired, and people with IBD commonly have lower folate levels. Supplementing these vitamins may help reduce their deficiencies and improve overall health in persons with IBD. PMC5409721
  • Iron: Iron is vital for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells and is often supplemented in IBD patients to address iron-deficiency anemia, a common issue arising from chronic intestinal bleeding associated with IBD. Iron supplements can help improve energy levels and overall health in these patients. [PMC7697745]
  • Fiber Foods and Supplements: Fiber may need to be avoided during IBD flares, but should be slowly reintroduced as tolerated when symptoms are in remission. [PMC9220141]
  • Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency is very common in IBD and is likely to cause worse disease severity.[PMC10923208][PMC11174356]
• More:
• Peppermint Oil: Peppermint acts as an antispasmodic and can help calm the digestive tract muscles. It is effective at treating IBS-like digestive symptoms, mainly pain and bloating. [PMC6337770]
• Aloe: Aloe vera gel is an anti-inflammatory that has been researched in the treatment of UC and reduced disease activity after one month of treatment. [PMC4202341]
• Wormwood: Artemisia absinthium aka wormwood has historically been used to treat IBD. Its ability to decrease inflammatory proteins and its antimicrobial properties are likely the mechanisms. The available data through clinical trials supports its ability to achieve healing in patients with Crohn’s. [PMID: 19962291]

Order Supplements For Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Supplement Safety Information

Vitamin D, calcium, iron, B vitamins (specifically B12 and folate), zinc, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, probiotics, and fiber supplements are safe and beneficial for managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Medication Interactions:

• Corticosteroids: May decrease calcium absorption, possibly reducing the effectiveness of calcium supplementation. Vitamin D absorption can be diminished by corticosteroids, increasing the risk of vitamin D deficiency.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., Azathioprine, Methotrexate): Vitamin B12 absorption may be interfered with by immunosuppressants, possibly leading to deficiency. Folate absorption can also be affected by immunosuppressants, increasing the risk of folate deficiency.
• Antibiotics (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Metronidazole): Probiotics’ effectiveness may be reduced by antibiotics, as they can disrupt gut bacteria balance.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, when combined with NSAIDs, may increase bleeding risk due to their blood-thinning properties.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin): High-dose vitamin K supplements may interfere with the effectiveness of anticoagulants, as they inhibit vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.
• Methotrexate: Folic acid’s effectiveness as an IBD treatment may be reduced by methotrexate, as it inhibits folic acid metabolism.

Supplement Interactions:

• Iron: Calcium can inhibit iron absorption when taken together, so it’s advisable to avoid simultaneous intake to maximize iron absorption. High doses of zinc may interfere with iron absorption, suggesting spacing out their intake if consumed together.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, synergistically enhancing bone health and immune function when taken alongside calcium.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (from fish oil): High doses of omega-3 fatty acids may increase bleeding risk when combined with vitamin E, which also possesses anticoagulant properties.
• Probiotics: Fiber supplements can nourish probiotics and promote their growth in the gut, possibly amplifying their beneficial effects on gut health.
• Folic Acid: Folic acid supplementation may mask Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms, emphasizing the importance of adequate intake of both vitamins to prevent deficiencies.
• Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 and folate function synergistically, with deficiencies in one masking deficiencies in the other, highlighting the necessity of maintaining a balance between them.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

To Sum It Up

Incorporating Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, B Vitamins (specifically B12 and Folate), Zinc, Omega-3 Fatty Acids (from fish oil), Probiotics, and Fiber Supplements into your routine can offer numerous health benefits for managing inflammatory bowel disease. These nutrients support bone health, boost the immune system, aid in tissue repair, regulate inflammation, improve gut flora balance, and enhance overall gastrointestinal function. By including these supplements as part of a balanced diet, persons with inflammatory bowel disease can relieve symptoms and improve their quality of life.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

UNREVISED DRAFT

Secure Ordering | Free Shipping | Best Quality | Best Prices

Along with providing information on whether supplements for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements.

Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) often means dealing with symptoms like abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and low energy. While medications are a key part of treatment, many people explore additional ways to care for their digestive health.

Nutritional supplements may offer support by helping to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and promote balance in the gut. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how certain supplements may fit into a broader approach to managing IBD and what to consider when choosing them.

What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used for chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. The two most common forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These conditions can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, frequent bowel movements, rectal bleeding, weight changes, fatigue, and sometimes fever.

In more advanced cases, IBD may lead to complications like intestinal blockages, fistulas, or nutrient deficiencies. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but a mix of genetic factors, immune system activity, and environmental influences appears to play a role. Triggers may include stress, diet, or other outside factors that can worsen symptoms. Managing IBD often involves both medical treatment and attention to lifestyle, including nutrition and daily habits, to help maintain stability and reduce symptom flare-ups.

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are both forms of inflammatory bowel disease, but they differ in how and where they affect the digestive tract. Crohn’s can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, and the inflammation often appears in patches with healthy areas in between. In contrast, ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon and rectum, where the inflammation tends to be continuous and confined to the inner lining of the bowel.

What Food and Lifestyle Factors Are Important For Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

• Anti-inflammatory Diet: Focus on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid processed foods, high-fat foods, and foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can exacerbate inflammation.
• Fiber Intake: Gradually increase fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support digestive health. However, persons with IBD may need to adjust fiber intake based on their symptoms, as high-fiber foods can sometimes aggravate symptoms during flare-ups.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water, herbal teas, and diluted fruit juices can help maintain hydration levels and support digestive function.
• Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or tai chi to help manage stress levels. Stress can exacerbate IBD symptoms, so finding ways to relax and unwind is important.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to support overall health. Exercise can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and boost mood. Aim for a combination of aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
• Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting smoking is essential for managing IBD symptoms. Smoking can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of complications in persons with IBD.
• Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications as directed by a healthcare provider to help control inflammation and reduce symptoms. It’s important to follow the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare team and attend regular follow-up appointments.
• Nutritional Supplements: In some cases, nutritional supplements may be beneficial for persons with IBD, especially if there are deficiencies in certain vitamins or minerals. Talk to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian about whether supplementation is appropriate for you.
• Sleep Quality: Prioritize good sleep hygiene habits to ensure adequate rest and recovery. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night and establish a regular sleep schedule.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Recommended For Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

• Boswellia: Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) reduces inflammation. [PMC4367210] A 2001 study found that Boswellia was as effective as mesalamine, an anti-inflammatory medication often used in the treatment of IBD. [PMID: 11488449][PMC5588418]
• Zinc Carnosine: Zinc deficiency is common in IBD and increases the risk for poor outcomes. [PMC5177471] Zinc carnosine is especially beneficial for managing IBD during a flare-up because it combines the healing properties of zinc with carnosine’s ability to protect and repair the gut lining, reducing inflammation and promoting mucosal healing. [PMID: 35659631]
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, have been shown to reduce gut inflammation and improve symptoms in inflammatory bowel diseases. Research shows that ω3 fatty acids reduce intestinal inflammation, and induce and maintain clinical remission in UC patients. Omega-3s are related to the reduction of proinflammatory cytokines, decrease disease activity, and increase the quality of life of CD patients. [PMC6801729]
• Curcumin: Curcumin is a naturally occurring chemical found in turmeric. It has been shown to reduce inflammation and treat ulcerative colitis when used with mesalamine therapy. [PMID: 25724700]
• Probiotics: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gut condition, divided into Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Researchers have found that combining standard treatment with probiotics might be an option to achieve remission in active Ulcerative Colitis patients. [PMC539443]
• Common Nutrient Deficiencies:
  • Vitamin D: Supplementing with Vitamin D can help reduce the risks of osteoporosis and will play a role in modulating immune responses to decrease inflammation in IBD patients. [PMID: 35396764] Vitamin D deficiency is common in IBD and it should be tested. Vitamin D dosages should be adjusted based on your blood level with many clinicians recommending an optimal Vitamin D level of 50-80 ng/ml. Vitamin D Labs (affiliate link) can be ordered in the NutriScape Lab Shop.
  • B Complex Vitamins (specifically B12 and Folate): In Crohn’s disease, absorption of B12 can be impaired, and people with IBD commonly have lower folate levels. Supplementing these vitamins may help reduce their deficiencies and improve overall health in persons with IBD. PMC5409721
  • Iron: Iron is vital for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells and is often supplemented in IBD patients to address iron-deficiency anemia, a common issue arising from chronic intestinal bleeding associated with IBD. Iron supplements can help improve energy levels and overall health in these patients. [PMC7697745]
  • Fiber Foods and Supplements: Fiber may need to be avoided during IBD flares, but should be slowly reintroduced as tolerated when symptoms are in remission. [PMC9220141]
  • Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency is very common in IBD and is likely to cause worse disease severity.[PMC10923208][PMC11174356]
• More:
• Peppermint Oil: Peppermint acts as an antispasmodic and can help calm the digestive tract muscles. It is effective at treating IBS-like digestive symptoms, mainly pain and bloating. [PMC6337770]
• Aloe: Aloe vera gel is an anti-inflammatory that has been researched in the treatment of UC and reduced disease activity after one month of treatment. [PMC4202341]
• Wormwood: Artemisia absinthium aka wormwood has historically been used to treat IBD. Its ability to decrease inflammatory proteins and its antimicrobial properties are likely the mechanisms. The available data through clinical trials supports its ability to achieve healing in patients with Crohn’s. [PMID: 19962291]

Order Supplements For Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Supplement Safety Information

Vitamin D, calcium, iron, B12, folate, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, probiotics, and fiber supplements are commonly used to support people managing IBD. These nutrients can help address deficiencies, support immune function, and promote gut health. When taken in appropriate amounts and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, they are generally considered safe and may complement medical treatment.

Medication Interactions:

• Corticosteroids: These can reduce how the body absorbs calcium and vitamin D, which may raise the risk of bone-related issues. Taking these nutrients with corticosteroids may require adjustments based on individual needs.
• Immunosuppressants (e.g., Azathioprine, Methotrexate): These medications may interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12 and folate, which can increase the risk of deficiency over time.
• Antibiotics (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Metronidazole): These can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and may reduce the effectiveness of probiotics if taken at the same time. Spacing them out may help maintain probiotic benefits.
• NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil have mild blood-thinning effects. When used with NSAIDs, there may be a slightly increased risk of bleeding in some people.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin): High doses of vitamin K can interfere with how these medications work by affecting clotting pathways. Intake should remain consistent unless directed otherwise by a provider.
• Methotrexate: This drug affects folic acid metabolism. Supplementing with folic acid is often recommended alongside methotrexate, but dosing may need to be tailored to avoid interference with treatment goals.

Supplement Interactions:

• Iron: Calcium can reduce iron absorption when taken at the same time. It’s best to take them at different times to support proper iron uptake. High doses of zinc may also interfere with iron, so spacing them apart can be helpful.
• Vitamin D and Calcium: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, making it useful to take them together for bone and immune support.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin E: Both have mild blood-thinning effects. When taken in large amounts together, they may slightly raise the risk of bleeding in sensitive individuals.
• Probiotics and Fiber: Fiber can help feed beneficial gut bacteria, including probiotics. When used together, they may support a healthier and more balanced digestive environment.
• Folic Acid and Vitamin B12: Folic acid can improve symptoms of B12 deficiency without addressing the underlying issue. To avoid masking a B12 shortage, it’s important to ensure both nutrients are present in adequate amounts.
• Vitamin B12 and Folate: These two nutrients work closely together in the body. A lack of one can hide the signs of a deficiency in the other, so maintaining balance is important for proper nerve and red blood cell function.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

To Sum It Up

Adding supplements like vitamin D, calcium, iron, B12, folate, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and fiber to your daily routine may help support areas of health affected by inflammatory bowel disease. These nutrients play a role in maintaining bone strength, supporting immune function, helping with tissue repair, and promoting a balanced gut environment.

For people managing IBD, these supplements can be part of a broader strategy to ease symptoms and support digestive health. When used alongside a balanced diet and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, they may contribute to greater comfort and overall well-being.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.