Have you felt that your pants squeeze you and it is as if you brought a balloon? It could be colitis, since inflammation as well as gas and constipation are just some of its symptoms. That’s why we present you 10 home remedies for colitis.
According to the National Library of Medicine of the United States, colitis is called inflammation or swelling of the large intestine, also known as the colon.
10 home remedies for colitis / Photo: iStock
What is colitis and why does it give?
Colitis is a chronic disease of the digestive system, that is, it does not have a cure as such and its causes can be diverse, according to the National Library of Medicine of the United States, some of the causes are:
- Food poisoning
- Crohn’s disease
- Infections caused by a virus or parasite
- lack of blood flow
- Previous radiation to the large intestine
As the causes can be varied, it is difficult to determine exactly why colitis occurs.
What are the symptoms of colitis?
Like the causes, the symptoms can vary depending on the type of colitis you have, however, among the most common are:
- abdominal inflammation
- bowel pain
- Gases
- Intermittence between diarrhea and constipation
In the most severe cases, there may be bloody stools, chills, fever, and dehydration.
10 home remedies for colitis / Photo: iStock
What can I eat for colitis?
As it is a disease that cannot be completely cured, many people seek alternative therapies to alleviate discomfort, so we show you 10 home remedies for colitis.
- Yogurt with probiotics: According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, probiotics have a positive impact in counteracting the discomfort of colitis, so it is recommended to add foods rich in probiotics to improve the quality of life of patients.
- Plantago psyllium seeds: Plantago psyllium is a laxative whose function is to increase the volume of feces by aborting intestinal fluid, which guarantees easier evacuation for patients.
- Flaxseed: According to the Mayo Clinic, flaxseed is a powerful ally to treat symptoms of intestinal discomfort, since its high amounts of fiber help relieve constipation, also reducing inflammation in the abdomen.
Carrot: An article published in the Peruvian Medical Act recommends carrots as another home remedy for colitis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. You can consume it in juice or cooked as you usually do.
- Chamomile tea: Due to its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties, chamomile helps to relieve discomfort such as inflammation and intestinal pain. As it does not contain caffeine, it is a drink suitable for all people.
- Acupressure: To relieve abdominal pain, you can opt for alternatives such as acupressure, for this you must place the thumb of your dominant hand and press on the part where the index finger and thumb meet. You can also press down on your belly button firmly for a few minutes.
- Wheatgrass: It should be taken in juice, either by grinding the leaves with water or by buying it already pulverized and ready for the blender. This remedy for colitis It also has benefits for the oxygenation of the body.
- Heat therapy: With the help of a hot compress, rest for a few minutes while you place it on the area of pain and swelling. The thermal sensation will relieve discomfort.
- Licorice root: Licorice is a plant that has benefits for the digestive system, such as reducing stomach heaviness, one of the most annoying symptoms of colitis.
- Aloe vera gel: The Mayo Clinic explains that aloe vera is an effective laxative for treating constipation and bloating, so you can also use it to combat colitis.
10 home remedies for colitis / Photo: iStock
What foods irritate the colon?
To improve the symptoms of colitis, it is also important to maintain a regulated diet and reduce or moderate the consumption of foods such as:
- Carbonated drinks like soft drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Dairy products because they can inflame the intestine
- Energy or stimulating drinks such as coffee
As you can see, these 10 home remedies for colitis they are easy to access and consume, however, in the face of any complication, going to a professional review will always be the most recommended.
If you want to know more about this topic, we leave you an explanatory video where a specialist shares his knowledge about chronic colitis.