Abdominal pain, weight loss, persistent diarrhea or abscess: Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, is not easy. Characterized by phases of relapses interspersed with phases of remission, it affects more and more people, and generally manifests itself in early adulthood.
If the disease is generally treated with corticosteroids during flare-ups and biotherapies as background treatment, many patients are on the lookout for more natural tips and methods. Dr. Franck Cholet, head of the hepato-gastroenterology department at Brest University Hospital, explains to us what can really relieve pain, or not.
Eliminate tobacco: oui
If the negative effects of tobacco on health are no longer to be proven, smoking is particularly to be avoided in people with Crohn’s disease. “Tobacco is indeed a risk factor,” says Dr. Cholet. And this, even when you smoke little. Studies have shown that, even with less than five cigarettes a day, there is an increased risk and those who use tobacco have many more flare-ups than others,” explains the specialist.
Quitting alcohol: non
If tobacco often goes hand in hand with alcohol, the latter is not especially to be avoided in sick people, despite what one can read on the Net. “In any case, there has been no scientific demonstration in this direction, notes the gastroenterologist. Of course, you have to drink reasonably, according to government recommendations, but there are no specific contraindications for people with Crohn’s disease. »
Eat healthier: oui
While the benefits of good nutrition benefit everyone, eating healthy is especially important for those with Crohn’s disease. “An American study published in 2021 shows that poor diet is a risk factor, explains Dr. Cholet. There is thus a greater chance of developing the disease and a greater chance of having flare-ups if you regularly consume ultra-processed products. »
Opt for acupuncture or homeopathy: Yes, but…
Beyond the gestures to be adopted on a daily basis, many patients opt for alternative medicine. In the lead, in particular, homeopathy and acupuncture. “There is no scientific demonstration of their effectiveness. But we do not dissuade our patients because it is not dangerous and there may be a beneficial placebo effect. So, if they feel it helps them, then why not! “. Be careful however: “It is to be done in addition to the drug treatments prescribed by doctors, not in substitution”, specifies the specialist.
Take herbal teas: Yes, but…
Take care, however, on the side of the plants. “It’s not trivial, as one might think, you have to be very careful!, warns Doctor Cholet. Some plants can be downright bad for your health. For example, at too high a dose, licorice can cause high blood pressure. It is therefore necessary to be well informed and seek the advice of your pharmacist or doctor before opting for plants. »