Complementary Medicine and Alternative Therapies

Many people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis explore supplements to support their health, manage symptoms, or address nutrient deficiencies. While some supplements may be helpful in certain situations, others may not provide benefits and could interact with your medications or affect your health.

Before starting any supplement, talk with your healthcare team. Your doctor or dietitian can help you understand whether a supplement is appropriate for you, how it may fit into your treatment plan, and whether it is safe based on your medications, symptoms, and nutritional needs.

The digestive tract contains trillions of microorganisms that play an important role in gut health. People with IBD may have changes in their gut microbiome, including fewer good bacteria. Probiotics are live microorganisms that may help support the balance of bacteria in the digestive system.

Research on probiotics in IBD is ongoing, and benefits may vary depending on the type of IBD and the specific probiotic used. Talk with your healthcare team before starting probiotics to determine if they are right for you.

Some people living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis choose to explore medical cannabis to help manage symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or reduced appetite. Research on medical cannabis for IBD is still developing, and it has not been shown to reduce inflammation or heal the intestine. Medical cannabis should not replace prescribed IBD treatments. 

Talk with your healthcare team about the potential benefits, risks, and whether it is a safe option for you.