The U.S. Department of Health and Services reports that 60 to 70 million people are affected by all digestive diseases. [1] Based on the fact that most people are consuming some form of the Standard American Diet (SAD), which consists of a lot of processed carbohydrates and meats and very little fruits and vegetables, this statistic is not surprising. Some of the most common digestive disorders include IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Chrone’s disease, Ulcerative Colitis and Chronic Constipation. If you are someone who suffers with any of these conditions, there are some natural dietary changes you can make that may help you tremendously.

If you are not sure whether you have a digestive order, I’ve included a brief description of each of the ones mentioned above followed by some natural changes you can make that improve the majority if not all of these diseases and/or conditions. Even so, it is important that you get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional to ensure that you are following the right diet and treatment protocol for your condition.

IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a bowel disorder, not a disease. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.

Chrone’s disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the GI tract. The most commonly effected area is the small intestine, although it can occur anywhere in the digestive tract. It is said to be an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the tissues of the digestive system. Although its cause may be genetic, there has also been research showing a connection between a bacteria that leads to illness in cattle and those with Chrone’s disease. Although inconclusive it is possible that a small percentage of pasteurized milk still containing this strain of bacteria could be at the route of Chrone’s disease.  Symptoms of Chrone’s include diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping, blood in stools, ulcers and weight loss. [2] 

Ulcerative Colitis, also potentially an autoimmune disease, causes chronic inflammation in the large intestine and rectum. Small ulcers develop on the intestinal wall and can worsen to the point of needing surgery. Like Chrone’s, Ulcerative Colitis can cause bloody stools, diarrhea and abdominal pain. [3] 

Extremely common, Chronic Constipation can cause someone to go days or weeks without a bowel movement. A person with a normal digestive system should go at least once per day, preferably 2 or 3 times a day. Long-term laxative use only makes things worse and can cause the digestive system to no longer work naturally without them over time. Sometimes IBS is at the route of constipation. Other times it can be caused by hypothyroidism. Diet as well is clearly at the source of constipation. [4] 

So what are some things that you can do to prevent, improve or potentially cure these digestive issues, depending on the severity of your particular case?