IF YOUR COLON IS INFLAMED: HEALING SUPPLEMENTS – ALOE VERA AND IBSOrganic compounds in this juice can all be broken down to form salicylates. These are both analgesic and anti-inflammatory and inhibit the production of inflammatory prostaglandins from arachiodonic acid.Aloe vera can help to balance stomach acids, assist in the breaking down of protein and therefore prevent undigested molecules causing problems in the gut.The range of fatty acids produced by the plant includes linoleic, mynistic, caprylic, oleic, palmitic and steraric acid – some of whichmay not only be of value in lowering cholesterol but are also helpful in the production of useful prostaglandins which have antiinflammatory properties.Aloe vera has been found to have the anti-inflammatory action of steroid drugs like indomethacin and prednialone (for more information on this the Aloe Vera Centre – see above address).Aloe Vera and Constipation or DiarrhoeaResearch has shown aloe vera juice to be an adaptogen – that is, a substance capable of reducing diarrhoea if that is the problem, or in the case of constipation increasing bowel movements.*25\326\8*

A. The answer is ‘No’. Today most doctors believe diet plays no part in therapy. Ideally, the patient is allowed to eat whatever he desires. The concept of small, frequent feeds of non-irritating foods with an emphasis on milk, cream custards, gruel, strained foods and in between meal snacks is no longer regarded as important. Also, the concept that rough, raw vegetables and fruits were harmful is also not generally considered important. Tea, coffee, alcohol, condiments, pips, coarse salad vegetables, fried foods, spices and spicy fare and meat extracts were all incriminated as being bad news and prolonging the healing process.

Today the ulcer patient is allowed to eat virtually whatever he pleases.

Q. What about smoking and alcohol intake?

A. Opinions seem to vary on this. Some experts claim that ulcers heal more slowly if the patient continues to smoke. Others say it doesn’t matter. Personally, I think that the irritation of acids from swallowed cigarette smoke may cause harm and it’s better not to smoke. Furthermore, smoking is definitely harmful to other systems of the body, notably the respiratory and heart-blood vessel systems. Anyone who continues to smoke is foolish. Smoking is definitely harmful to general health. Some experts also believe the intake of alcohol may be adverse to healing. Once more, others dispute it. I think that the more effort that is made to remove known irritants like alcohol from the ulcer which is trying to heal, the better.

Q. What is the attitude about arthritic drugs and aspirin?

A. Aspirin and other widely used drugs for arthritis are well known for their ability to irritate the lining of the stomach and duodenum. These come under the heading of “non-steroidal antiinflammatory” drugs and ideally in the early stages of ulcer treatment it is usually recommended they be stopped. Most arthritics are able to put up with their pains for a short time, or alternative drugs (usually not as effective) are available as a stop gap. Also, cortisone-like drugs are usually stopped during early active treatment, for it seems that oral forms may inhibit, or delay, healing. However, once more, special instructions and alternative treatment will be given by your own physician or gastro-enterologist. Be guided by him and stick firmly to his advice.

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