IBD Treatments

IBD is a chronic condition that currently has no medical cure. Prior to 1990, only a few medications were available to treat IBD. Research has dramatically increased over time and now there are more treatment options available to control the disease.

Medical Therapy

The main goal of this IBD treatment method is to induce remission or symptom-free periods, prevent future flare-ups, and improve a patient’s quality of life. When the inflammation is under control, the intestines can absorb essential nutrients.  This helps patients avoid long-term complications and surgery.

For more on IBD medications, click here. 

Nutrition

Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can play an important role in both preventing flares, and reducing symptoms during a flare. To prevent flares, patients might consider avoiding starches and eating small frequent meals. During a flare, patients can improve their symptoms by avoiding fiber, sugary drinks, and dairy, among other things.

For more on IBD nutritional guidance, click here.

Alternative Options

Treating the whole person is often the best approach to treating IBD. Through treatments some may consider nontraditional – like stress management, physical activity, and acupuncture – many patients find a new level of relief, both physically and psychologically.

For more on alternative IBD treatments, click here.