Vitamin D May Offer New Hope For Crohn’s Sufferers
Canadian researchers may be offering new hope for Crohn’s disease sufferers in the form of over-the-counter Vitamin D.
In a study of this inflammatory bowel disease, scientists from McGill University and the University of Montreal found that Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to Crohn’s disease.
Adding to the evidence is the fact that residents in sun-deprived northern countries are more likely to develop Crohn’s. The human body needs sunlight to produce Vitamin D.
Initially, the researchers were interested in how Vitamin D can boost the immune system to lessen the risk of cancer. But then they realized that Crohn’s disease is also caused by an inflammatory response to a defect in the immune system… specifically how the immune system handles intestinal bacteria.
Vitamin D directly affects 2 genes that are associated with Crohn’s disease. The genes are called beta defensin 2 and NOD2. If NOD2 is defective or insufficient, it can’t defend against microbial attacks in the intestine.
The researchers suggest that disease-free brothers and sisters of Crohn’s patients should check to see whether they have enough Vitamin D in their bodies. If not, they can buy Vitamin D supplements to guard against the development of the disease.
Of course, no one should alter their diet or take Vitamin D supplements without first seeing their doctor for professional medical advice.
But if the results of this study hold up, Vitamin D may become an exciting new defense against Crohn’s and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
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