Health Farm

-- Diets rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are associated with a lower incidence of heart disease and multiple cancers. Encouragingly, studies suggest such diets also treat Crohn’s disease – a condition affecting close to one million Americans.

A case report recently published in the journal Nutrients describes how a 20+ year old male who suffered from Chron’s disease eliminated animal products and processed foods from his diet during a 40-day religious observation.

When the symptoms of Chron’s disease disappeared, he elected to continue his whole food, plant-based (and animal-free) diet – experiencing complete remission. He no longer takes medication for Chron’s disease.

The precise cause of Chron’s disease is unknown, though research points to a combination of factors including genetics, environment, and an upregulated immune system.

Only about 10% of traditionally managed Crohn’s disease patients achieve long-term remission using standard medications, and up to half of patients require surgery within 10 years of diagnosis.

Eat more plants

Plant-based diets are high in fibre and known to promote overall gut health. Fibre feeds healthy bacteria in the gut, which may offer a protective effect against Crohn’s disease and other digestive ailments.

And just look at the side effects – reduced risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.