Increased activity of free radicals, the unstable molecules associated with cell damage, is theorized to underlie the mucosal injury commonly seen in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For this reason, decreased levels of circulating antioxidants have been found in patients with ulcerative colitis, and this deficiency has been strongly implicated in the pathophysiology of the disease.1 One study specifically found increased oxidized glutathione--which signals oxidative damage--associated with a clinical worsening of inflammation and general IBD status in patients.2

Another controlled study on children with Crohn's disease found clear evidence of oxidative stress as indicated by imbalances of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione and other crucial oxidative stress markers.3 Moreover, because inflamed intestinal mucosa is associated with decreased levels of superoxide disumutase in adults with Crohn's disease, researchers postulate that these metabolic imbalances may also make them more susceptible to intestinal damage generated by free radicals.4

Many antioxidant molecules rely on nutrients such as manganese, copper, zinc and selenium for their formation; for this reason, element imbalances can also play an important role in influencing the status of free radicals in the body 5,6 (see IBD & Elemental Analysis).

The Oxidative Stress Analysis (urine) identifies markers of hydroxyl radical activity following a challenge dose of aspirin and acetaminophen. The blood profile includes assays of reduced whole blood glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase.

References:
1 Ramakrishna BS, Varghese R, Jayakumar S, Mathan M, Balasubramanian KA. Circulating antioxidants in ulcerative colitis and their relationship to disease severity and activity. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1997;12(7):490-494.
2 Holmes EW, Yong SL, Eiznhamer D, Keshavarzian A. Glutathione content of colonic mucosa: evidence for oxidative damage in active ulcerative colitis. Dig Dis Sci 1998;43(5):1088-1095.
3 Hoffenberg EJ, Deutsch J, Smith S, Sokol RJ. Circulating antioxidant concentrations in children with inflammatory bowel disease. Am J Clin Nutr 1997;65(5):1482-1488.
4 Mulder TP, Verspaget HW, Janssens AT, de Bruin PA, Pena AS, Lamers CB. Decrease in two intestinal copper/zinc containing proteins with antioxidant function in inflammatory bowel disease. Gut 1991;32(10):1146-1150.
5 Royall D, Jeejeebhoy KN, Baker JP, Allard JP, Habal FM, Cunnane SC, Greenberg GR. Comparison of amino acid vs. peptide based on enteral diets in active Crohn's disease: clinical and nutritional outcome. Gut 1994;35(60:783-787).
6 Struniolo GC, Mestriner C, Lecis PE, D'Odorico A, Venturi C, Irato P, et. Al. Altered plasma and mucosal concentrations of trace elements and antioxidants in active ulcerative colitis. Scand J. Gastroeneterol 1998;33(60:644-649).

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.