Ulcerative Colitis:
A Functional Medicine Approach
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that primarily affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum. It’s characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms. At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, Dr. Tiffani Fries offers a functional medicine approach to help manage ulcerative colitis, reduce inflammation, and improve your overall well-being.
Understanding Ulcerative Colitis
The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it’s believed to involve a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and an abnormal immune response in the gut. This leads to chronic inflammation in the colon, causing symptoms that can significantly impact daily life.
Common Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Urgent need to defecate
- Rectal pain and bleeding
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Fever
The Salt Lake Functional Medicine Approach to Ulcerative Colitis
Dr. Fries, DC takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to managing ulcerative colitis. She focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to inflammation in the colon, such as:
Gut Dysbiosis:
An imbalance in the gut microbiome.
Food Sensitivities:
Identifying and eliminating foods that may be triggering inflammation.
Leaky Gut Syndrome:
Addressing increased intestinal permeability.
Chronic Stress:
Managing stress levels, which can exacerbate Crohn's symptoms
Nutrient Deficiencies:
Correcting deficiencies that may be contributing to inflammation or malabsorption.
Personalized Support Plans:
Based on a thorough evaluation and advanced testing (if needed), Dr. Fries, DC develops personalized treatment plans that may include:
Dietary Modifications:
Implementing an anti-inflammatory diet tailored to your specific needs, which may include elements of the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD), a carefully planned elimination diet, or other specialized diets.
Targeted Supplementation:
Utilizing specific supplements to address nutrient deficiencies, support gut healing, reduce inflammation, and modulate the immune system. This may include probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and other targeted nutrients.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, improving sleep hygiene, and addressing other lifestyle factors that can influence ulcerative colitis.
Working Towards Remission
At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, the goal is to help you achieve and maintain remission from ulcerative colitis. We believe that by addressing the root causes of inflammation and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, you can experience significant symptom improvement and a better quality of life.
