Colitis treatment

Dealing With Colitis

shane hunt

“Colitis” can refer to different types of inflammation in the colon, each with different root causes. The best approach depends on identifying why the inflammation is happening in the first place. Here’s an overview of the main causes and how to address them at the root level:

1. Identify the Type of Colitis

The first step is knowing which kind of colitis you’re dealing with:

  • Ulcerative colitis (autoimmune/inflammatory)
  • Infectious colitis (bacterial, viral, or parasitic)
  • Ischemic colitis (reduced blood flow to the colon)
  • Microscopic colitis (immune-related but less severe)
  • Antibiotic-associated colitis (often from C. difficile)
  • Allergic or food sensitivity–related colitis

2. Address Root Causes by Type

A. Autoimmune/Inflammatory (Ulcerative or Microscopic Colitis)

Root causes:

  • Immune dysregulation
  • Gut microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)
  • Compromised intestinal barrier (“leaky gut”)
  • Chronic stress and inflammatory diet

Root-level strategies:

  • Restore the microbiome: High-quality probiotics, prebiotic fibers, and plant polyphenols can rebalance gut flora.
  • Support mucosal healing: Nutrients like L-glutamine, zinc carnosine, and aloe vera soothe and repair the intestinal lining.
  • Reduce inflammatory triggers: Eliminate processed foods, refined sugars, alcohol, and industrial seed oils.
  • Balance immune response: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, curcumin, and adaptogenic herbs may help regulate inflammation.
  • Mind-gut connection: Address chronic stress through meditation, breathwork, or gentle exercise—stress has a direct effect on colonic inflammation.

B. Infectious or Antibiotic-Associated Colitis

Root causes:

  • Overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria (C. difficile, Salmonella, etc.)
  • Loss of protective gut flora after antibiotics

Root-level strategies:

  • Clear the infection safely: Guided by lab testing and targeted antimicrobial therapy (natural or pharmaceutical as appropriate).
  • Rebuild the microbiome: Probiotic repletion and diverse plant-based diet once infection is resolved.
  • Support detox pathways: Hydration, minerals, and antioxidants to reduce toxin burden.

C. Ischemic Colitis

Root causes:

  • Restricted blood flow due to vascular issues, dehydration, or certain medications

Root-level strategies:

  • Improve circulation through hydration, moderate exercise, and vascular health support (e.g., nitric oxide–boosting foods like beets and watermelon rind extract).
  • Manage cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure, lipids, etc.).

D. Food-Sensitivity or Allergic Colitis

Root causes:

  • Immune reactions to specific foods (often gluten, dairy, soy, or additives)
  • Gut permeability allowing antigens to activate the immune system

Root-level strategies:

  • Elimination diet guided by a practitioner to identify triggers.
  • Repair the gut barrier with nutrients like L-glutamine, N-acetyl glucosamine, and polyphenols.
  • Reinoculate with healthy bacteria to restore tolerance.

3. Foundational Support Across All Types

  • Anti-inflammatory diet: Emphasize whole foods, leafy greens, fatty fish, and fermented vegetables.
  • Hydration and electrolytes: Support proper bowel motility and healing.
  • Reduce toxin exposure: Limit alcohol, NSAIDs, and processed food additives.
  • Rebuild the microbiome: A product like your Microbiome Boost—with yucca extract and gut-supportive compounds—may help rebalance microbial ecology and reduce inflammation naturally.
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