Gastrointestinal disorders: Crohn's disease

Crohn's disease causes an inflammation of the small intestines. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss and sometimes fever. There is no consensus on the cause of Crohn's disease, but many doctors believe that the immune system is affected by an infection which causes the inflammation. If gone untreated, Crohn's disease can cause a blockage of the gastrointestinal system which makes the body less able to absorb vital nutrients. Other problems which may arise from this gastrointestinal disease are kidney stones, gallstones, skin problems and arthritis. It is often necessary for those with Crohn's disease to take nutritional supplements to offset the decreased ability of the small intestines to absorb nutrients. While it is important to discuss treatment with your doctor, many have found natural treatments, such as eating a diet rich in whole foods and taking digestive aid supplements, such as colostrum, to aid in riding the body of excess toxins.