Crohns Disease and Fatty Acids: A Connection, Which Brings Overall Health

Crohns disease and fatty acids are related to each other in a healthy manner, that is, sufferers of Crohns disease must include omega -3 fatty acids in their diet. The omega -3 fatty acids are essential nutrients, which our body requires but cannot produce itself. Studies done on this issue have shown that fatty acids found in fish and certain plants have some anti-inflammatory properties, which can have curative effects on the Crohns disease.

 There are basically three types of fatty acids, commonly known as EPA, DHA and ALA. These fatty acids are used by the body for different functions such as, cardiovascular function, brain function, and lowering of blood pressure. EHA and DHA have anti-inflammatory properties, which is where we can see the relation between Crohns disease and fatty acids. In many complementary therapies, fish oil supplement, which contain these fatty acids, are given to patients suffering from Crohns disease. Though the results have been found to be varied in different cases.

 

Some experts say that, while, fatty acids may help reduce the already inflamed bowel; it is not helpful in preventing it. In addition, fatty acid treatment is beneficial only for those suffering with mild or moderate Crohns disease. In addition to that, it has been found out that fatty acid supplements may increase the intestinal mucosal surface area over time. This would improve the intestines capability to absorb nutrients and thus, in turn improve a person’s overall health.

 Whatever the studies show ultimately, it’s a proven fact that Crohns disease and fatty acids have a positive connection. Thus, it may be beneficial in some way or another for patients, suffering from Crohns disease. Before going in for fatty acid supplements, you can try out some inclusions in your diet to get the omega-3 fatty acids in your regular meals.

 

The richest source of EPA and DHA is cold-water fish like, herring, salmon, sardines, cod, and mackerel. ALA can be had from canola oil, flaxseed and oil, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and oil and perilla seed oil. You may also take omega-3 in form of enriched food such as, omega-3 enriched eggs, and omega-3 margarine. For a better result of the connection between Crohns disease and fatty acids, you must have at least 2-3 servings of fish every week. If you think it’s difficult to have so much fish every week, then you may ask your doctor to recommend supplements.

 

To get full benefit of the fatty acids that you are taking, they need to be catalyzed. These catalysts are in the form of Vitamin B3 and B6, Vitamin C, zinc and magnesium. When these are present in sufficient amount, then only you will get full effect of the fatty acids. In addition, if you are having too much saturated fat—the bad fats in your diet, the beneficial effects of fatty acids will be lowered. Crohns disease and fatty acids may not have cause and effect relation, but taking the nutrients in balanced quantity will definitely help you in dealing with the disease better.

 

There should be a balance of several nutrients like, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and anti-oxidants in your diet to combat any chronic disease. Crohns disease and fatty acids have a connection between them, which cannot be ignored, so go for it, include fatty acids in your diet, and see the good results.