Can You Use Cod Liver Oil to Treat Colitis Symptoms?

Research on cod liver oil and colitis shows this healthy oil may offer some relief to people with this disease.

Cod liver oil contains omega 3 fatty acids and research has shown these healthy fats play a major role in reducing inflammation and enhancing the immune system.

One of the hallmark symptoms of irritable bowel diseases, such as Colitis and Crohn's disease, is the ravaging effects of mucosal inflammation in the lining of the intestinal tract and bowel. Typical treatment for this painful condition usually involves the use of corticosteriods to reduce the inflammation.

Unfortunately, some people may experience side effects from these powerful drugs, such as acne, weight gain, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and muscle weakness.

One of the main benefits of omega 3 fatty acids is they're generally well tolerated without causing unpleasant side effects normally seen with many prescription drugs.

Studies show Cod Liver Oil helps Reduce Inflammation in Colitis

1. Animal studies show cod liver oil reduces the progression of colitis. In fact, after 30 days of treatment with cod liver oil, inflammation was reduced and almost non-existent after 50 days of treatment.

   Scientists believe a diet high in fatty fish and fish oils, such as cod liver oil, prevents the increase of inflammatory-causing chemicals and shortens the severity of the lesions seen in colitis.

2. Researchers have found a high number of people with colitis have low levels of omega 3 fatty acids. This may increase the risk for inflammation seen in colitis which may make symptoms even worse.

   A recent study published in the Journal of Royal Society of Medicine followed the admission of a 27 year old woman suffering from frequent bloody stools and abdominal cramps. After a sigmoidoscopy confirmed ulcerative colitis, she was prescribed corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medications. Her symptoms went away for a short while but then came back.

   It wasn't until she was referred to the Mayo Clinic where doctors prescribed a daily course of omega 3 fatty acids to her regularly prescribed treatments. After 2 weeks of receiving one gram of omega 3 fatty acids her colitis had reached complete remission.

While this is only one study, there are reports of omega 3 fatty acids reducing inflammation and prolonging remission in colitis.

How to Use Cod Liver Oil for Colitis

If you're going to try using cod liver oil you should make sure to use a highy-purified product that provides optimal levels of omega 3 fatty acids.

• While there are not prescribed dosages for this type of treatment, you should look at the label to determine how much omega 3 fatty acids per dose you're getting.

• The omega 3 fatty acids are the primary ingredient to achieving an anti-inflammatory response so you need to monitor how much you're getting.

• If possible, you can go to your doctor to have your Omega 3 Index checked. This is a blood test that measures the amount of omega 3 fatty acids in your body; levels that are low may increase your risk for inflammation in your body.

• Remember to consult with your doctor before beginning any nutritional supplement. Do not stop taking your prescribed medications without direction from your doctor.

Research has proven the health benefits of using fish oils on Crohn's disease and improving symptoms in ulcerative colitis.

Regular use of fish oils containing high levels of omega 3 fatty acids may lower your risk for inflammation and promote healing.

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