Probiotics for Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic digestive problem. Symptoms include abdominal pain and chronic, bloody diarrhea. There is no cure for Crohn's disease, but with medication and dietary changes, many patients live a relatively normal life. Some also find relief through alternative treatments like probiotics.

Causes of Crohn's Disease

• According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders, doctors believe Crohn's disease is caused by a malfunctioning immune system which attacks healthy bacteria in the intestines. They believe replenishing the healthy bacteria in the intestines helps bring Crohn's disease under control.

Probiotics as Treatment for Crohn's Disease

• Researchers with the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine are studying whether probiotics can restore the balance of friendly bacteria in the intestines. They have found encouraging evidence which supports their theory that probiotics can replenish healthy bacteria.

What Are Probiotics?

• According to the Mayo Clinic, probiotics are dietary supplements or foods containing healthy bacteria.

Benefits of Probiotics

• Probiotics promote regularity and shorten the amount of time your intestines need to perform their functions. Probiotics are also very useful in the treatment of diarrhea, one of of the major symptoms of Crohn's disease.

Side Effects of Probiotics

• The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that all side effects reported so far have been mild and affecting the digestive system. Patients who have used probiotics report a few side effects, include gas and bloating.