IBD and Fatty Acids

Despite rapid advances in medicine during the last century, the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has remained a daunting challenge for physicians. A recent study, however, suggests that utilizing the metabolic power of essential fatty acids (EFAs) may offer new hope for halting the progression of this chronic inflammatory disease.

In a double-blind randomized study reported in the American Journal of Gastroenterology (1998;93[5]:804-09), researchers divided patients with active ulceration of the colon (distal procto-colitis) into two groups. The first group received daily supplementation with 15 ml fish oil containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The placebo group received the same amount of sunflower oil.

Throughout the entire six-month period of the study, the patients receiving essential fatty acids showed a marked reduction in their UC symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and frequency of bowel movements. After 3 months of supplementation, in fact, all of the patients receiving EFAs went into remission and none required treatment with steroids. Meanwhile, patients in the control group showed no significant improvement--and some deteriorated to the point of requiring steroid treatment.

Clinical examination revealed that EFA supplementation effectively suppressed the cytotoxic activity of killer cells associated with ulcerative colitis; researchers believe that this may be a key biomechanism through which EFAs improve clinical parameters of the disease. Noting ambivalent results from previous studies, the authors stressed the importance of long-term supplementation and sufficient doses of EFAs to achieve desired results.

The Essential and Metabolic Fatty Acids Analysis is a crucial tool for pinpointing specific EMFA deficiencies and accurately monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 or 818 707-3126.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L.Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.