Crohn's disease is another major type of inflammatory bowel disease, similar to ulcerative colitis, but it can occur anywhere along the digestive tract – from the mouth to the large intestine, most commonly at the junction of the small and large intestines (ileocecal region). The inflammation in Crohn's disease is segmental (with interspersed healthy and diseased areas) and can affect all layers of the intestinal wall, leading to fistulas and strictures. Crohn's disease is a very serious and chronic condition; it can cause malabsorption of nutrients and significantly impair overall health.
Symptoms of Crohn's disease may include:
- Intermittent diarrhea (with or without blood), often chronic
- Abdominal pain, cramps – often in the lower right abdomen
- Reduced appetite, nausea, and weight loss
- General weakness, fatigue, and elevated temperature during active disease
- Possible complications: abscesses, perianal fistulas, intestinal obstruction due to strictures
Like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease has an autoimmune component – immunological imbalance leads to an excessive inflammatory reaction in the intestinal wall. The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, gut flora, and environmental factors play a role. Chronic inflammation in Crohn's disease penetrates deep into the tissue, causing permanent damage. Strong oxidative stress is present due to constant inflammation and tissue damage by free radicals. Other systems are often affected: skin changes, joint inflammation, eyes, and liver may occur – indicating the systemic nature of the inflammation.
Natural support for the body
Nutrition for Crohn's disease must also ensure a sufficient intake of calories and nutrients, despite reduced absorption. Spelt can be of great help in replenishing lost substances. First and foremost, spelt is rich in proteins (approximately 13% high-quality proteins) and contains all essential amino acids, which is important for tissue regeneration and the healing of fistulas or ulcerations. During the active phase of Crohn's disease, when coarse food is difficult to digest, spelt juice and juice in tablet form allow the body to receive the necessary vitamins and minerals: for example, vitamin K (important for blood clotting and healing), vitamin E (protects intestinal cells), magnesium and potassium (which are lost through diarrhea), and iron (for anemia prevention).
Chlorophyll in spelt juice has a beneficial effect on the intestines – it can help reduce inflammation and acts as a natural disinfectant in the intestines, which is beneficial for the healing of fistulas and wounds. When the disease is in remission, introducing cooked spelt dishes can improve gut flora because soluble fibers nourish beneficial bacteria. This leads to the production of short-chain fatty acids that regenerate the intestinal lining and maintain gut immunity.
Spelt also has a detoxifying effect – it binds toxins and metabolic waste in the intestines, relieving the liver, which is often burdened in Crohn's disease (due to medications and inflammation). With regular intake of spelt, either through food or supplements, those suffering from Crohn's disease can receive the necessary natural support: reduction of inflammatory processes, protection of tissues from oxidative damage, and improved nutrition for an organism battling a complex disease.