VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY & IBD: CHICKEN OR EGG?
VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY & IBD: CHICKEN OR EGG?
Vitamin D is well known to have many effects on the immune system. In recent years, many studies have suggested a possible role for vitamin D deficiency contributing to the development or activity of inflammatory bowel disease.
Check out the link to this excellent article in Frontline Gastroenterology regarding the important role that vitamin D has in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis):
“Vitamin D deficiency is frequent among patients with IBD. Several clinical studies have pointed to a critical role for vitamin D in ameliorating disease outcomes. Although causation versus correlation unfortunately remains an overwhelming issue in the illusive chicken versus egg debate regarding vitamin D and IBD, here we summarise the latest knowledge of the immunological effects of vitamin D in IBD and recommend from available evidence that physicians regularly monitor vitamin D levels in patients with IBD.”
https://fg.bmj.com/content/early/2019/01/07/flgastro-2018-101055
Additional facts mentioned:
- Vitamin D levels are disproportionately low among IBD patients with active inflammation.
- Low vitamin D levels may increase the risk of future IBD flares.
- Treating IBD flares results in increased vitamin D levels.
- Low vitamin D levels in IBD patients are also associated with a poorer quality of life and an abnormal response to biologic medications.
Although there is still much to learn about this complicated relationship between vitamin D, the immune system, and IBD, the team at Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health can help try to clarify the issues and optimize your disease. We can:
- Monitor your vitamin D (and other vitamin and nutrient levels, if appropriate)
- Optimize nutritional sources of calcium and vitamin D in the setting of the frequent dietary sensitivities that exist in individuals with IBD with the assistance of our fantastic registered dietitian, Claire Allen
- Coordinate bone density screening given the increased risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia, especially in individuals ever treated with steroids
- Strengthen your bone density and assist you with your wellness goals for physical activity with the help of our physical therapist/fitness consultant, Shayne Welch
- Assist with controlling the intestinal inflammation that goes along with active IBD and can contribute to reduced absorption of vitamin D
- Recommend appropriate vitamin D supplementation to replete stores to the target range
At Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health we PROVIDE HOLISTIC CARE for individuals with IBD. We combine:
- A community gastroenterologist with significant IBD experience and expertise who LISTENS to a patient’s concerns and preferences and is open minded regarding all facets of treatment options
- A registered dietitian to address the complex nutritional needs of IBD patients in moments of active disease and in wellness
- A behavioral coach/counselor to help with coping skills, stress management, and techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and gut-directed hypnotherapy for the frequently superimposed functional or IBS component of symptoms
- A nurse practitioner who is easily accessible for prompt communication and rapid appointment availability (as well as three other excellent nurses to help out!)
Please call 224.407.4400 to schedule a consultation or visit compgihealth.com to learn more about what our team can offer you.