14 Jun Do You Know About Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Here’s a little low down on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Inflammatory Bowel Disease covers two chronic disorders – Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease, both of which cause inflammation of the small and/or large bowel.

It affects approximately 1 in 250 people aged 5–49 in Australia, and each year more young people are being diagnosed. According to paediatric gastroenterology specialist Assoc. Professor Daniel Avi Lemberg, there is more evidence that microbiota, or gut bacteria, plays a role in the cause.

“While there is no randomised data to suggest a particular diet better controls inflammation in Paediatric IBD, there are some ongoing clinical trials that may change the way we treat IBD over the next decade,” says Professor Lemberg.

Major symptoms include abdominal pains, diarrhea, weight loss, and blood in the poo.

Visit The Gut Foundation for more info.

Note: This article provides general health information and in no way constitutes medical advice. Ideas and information expressed may not be suitable for everyone. Readers wishing to obtain medical advice should contact their own doctor.

Image by Angeli Lundblad