The following nutritional supplements have been studied for their potential benefits for those with bowel disease. Remember to check with your doctor before taking any nutritional supplement.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is a rich source of Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and DHA (a powerful omega-3 fatty acid). It has anti-inflammatory properties and supports immune function. It was used by the Vikings to promote wellness and relieve soreness. The British recognized it as a remedy for rheumatism in the eighteenth century, and it reached its peak of popularity in the US in the early 20th century.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, which is technically a hormone and not a vitamin, is important to bone health, the immune system, and the nervous system. Ask your doctor about testing and recommend doses of Vitamin D3. Some ways to boost your levels naturally include sunshine, egg yolks, liver, and saltwater fish (try some cod liver oil) [1].
Probiotics
According to research by Dr. Whitney Bowe of SUNY, Brooklyn, and Dr. Alan Logan of the Integrative Care center of Toronto, microbiota in the gut and oral probiotic supplements have the ability to “influence systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, glycemic control, tissue lipid content and even mood itself.”[2]
Multivitamin
If you have Crohn’s, you may be absorbing fewer nutrients from the food you eat. A high-quality multivitamin supplement may help you fill the gap.
B-12
According to the Linus Pauling Research Institute at Oregon State University, vitamin B-12 deficiency due to malabsorption is commonly associated with inflammatory bowel disease. [3]
Vitamin C
Research has shown that Vitamin C is antimicrobial and supports the function of killer cells in the immune system. [4] A 2006 study suggests a strong correlation between vitamin C intake and a reduction in CRP inflammatory markers [5]
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory proerties. It has been used in India for centuries and is often taken with black pepper to aid absorption. We found that mixing a small amount with goat’s milk yogurt provided comfort during flare-ups.
Oil of oregano (limited)
Oil of Oregano has antibiotic, anti-viral, anti-fungal properties. Use caution and check with your physician before using this powerful substance. You may be killing some good gut flora along with the bad.
Sources:
[1] http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/vitamind.html
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038963/
[3] http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminB12/