How does Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge work. What are the benefits of taking Metamucil daily. Why should you consider joining the challenge. How can you optimize your Metamucil routine for best results.

Understanding Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge is an innovative program designed to help individuals kickstart their daily Metamucil routine. This challenge serves as a motivational tool, encouraging participants to incorporate Metamucil powders or capsules into their daily regimen, allowing them to experience the full benefits of psyllium fiber on their digestive health.

Why two weeks? The human body requires time to adapt to dietary changes. While some may notice improvements in regularity sooner, the two-week period allows for a comprehensive adjustment. By the end of the challenge, many participants report feeling lighter, more energetic, and well on their way to establishing a sustainable health routine.

How Does the Challenge Work?

Upon signing up for the challenge, participants receive daily emails for two weeks. These communications contain valuable tips, tricks, and reminders to keep them motivated and on track with their Metamucil intake. This consistent support system helps individuals overcome the initial hurdles of incorporating a new habit into their daily lives.

Benefits of Joining Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

Embarking on the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge offers numerous benefits for your digestive health and overall well-being. Here are some key advantages:

• Improved regularity and digestive function
• Increased energy levels
• Reduced bloating and discomfort
• Potential cholesterol-lowering effects
• Establishment of a healthy daily routine

Many participants have shared positive experiences after completing the challenge. For instance, Frances from South Carolina reported feeling lighter and good throughout the day after taking Metamucil every morning. Camille from Pennsylvania noticed improvements in irregularity issues and felt less sluggish overall.

How to Participate in Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

Joining the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Sign up for daily inspirational reminders through the official Metamucil website.
2. Choose the Metamucil psyllium fiber supplement that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
3. Follow the package instructions and commit to taking Metamucil daily for two full weeks.

Consistency is key to experiencing the full benefits of the challenge. By following these steps and staying committed, you’ll be well on your way to improving your digestive health.

Selecting the Right Metamucil Product for Your Lifestyle

Metamucil offers a variety of psyllium fiber products to cater to different preferences and lifestyles. When choosing a product for the Two-Week Challenge, consider the following options:

Metamucil Powders

Ideal for those who prefer to mix their supplement into a cool drink. These powders come in various flavors and can be easily incorporated into your morning or evening routine.

Metamucil Capsules

Perfect for individuals with busy, on-the-go lifestyles. These capsules can be taken at any convenient time throughout the day, offering flexibility in your supplement routine.

When selecting your Metamucil product, consider your daily schedule, taste preferences, and ease of use. Choosing a product that aligns with your lifestyle increases the likelihood of maintaining consistency throughout the challenge and beyond.

10 Essential Tips for Success in Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

To maximize the benefits of the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge, consider implementing these expert tips:

1. Start slow and gradually increase intake: Begin with one serving daily and slowly increase to your desired amount. This approach helps minimize potential initial discomfort such as gas or bloating.
2. Mix powder into dry glass first: For smoother consistency, add Metamucil powder to an empty glass before adding liquid.
3. Use only cool liquids: Hot liquids can cause psyllium fiber to gel too quickly, making it difficult to mix and consume.
4. Establish a consistent schedule: Take Metamucil at the same time each day to build a lasting habit.
5. Set reminders: Use your phone, tablet, or alarm clock to remind you of your daily Metamucil intake.
6. Experiment with smoothies: Try incorporating Metamucil powder into your favorite smoothie recipes for added variety.
7. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support the fiber’s effectiveness.
8. Be patient: Allow your body time to adjust to the increased fiber intake.
9. Track your progress: Keep a journal to note any changes in your digestive health and overall well-being.
10. Consult your healthcare provider: If you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions, consult your doctor before starting the challenge.

Incorporating Metamucil into Your Daily Routine

Successfully integrating Metamucil into your daily routine is crucial for reaping its full benefits. Here are some strategies to help you maintain consistency:

Morning Routine Integration

Consider taking Metamucil as part of your morning ritual. Mix it with your favorite juice or water while preparing breakfast, or take a capsule with your morning meal.

Mealtime Incorporation

If you prefer, you can take Metamucil with each meal, up to three times daily. This approach can help you remember to take it consistently and may aid in feelings of fullness and satisfaction after eating.

Evening Wind-Down

Some individuals find it beneficial to take Metamucil in the evening as part of their bedtime routine. This can be especially helpful for those who experience digestive discomfort at night.

Experiment with different timings to find what works best for your body and schedule. The key is to establish a routine that you can maintain consistently.

Overcoming Challenges During the Two-Week Period

While the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge is designed to be achievable, some participants may encounter obstacles along the way. Here are some common challenges and strategies to overcome them:

Dealing with Initial Discomfort

Some individuals may experience mild bloating or gas when first increasing their fiber intake. To minimize this:

• Start with a smaller dose and gradually increase
• Ensure you’re drinking enough water
• Consider spreading your daily dose across multiple servings

Maintaining Consistency

Staying consistent with your Metamucil intake is crucial for success. To help maintain your routine:

• Set daily reminders on your phone or calendar
• Keep your Metamucil in a visible, easily accessible location
• Pair your Metamucil intake with an existing daily habit

Addressing Taste Concerns

If you’re struggling with the taste of Metamucil powder:

• Try mixing it with different beverages (e.g., juice, smoothies)
• Experiment with different flavors of Metamucil
• Consider switching to tasteless capsules

Remember, persistence is key. Most challenges can be overcome with patience and minor adjustments to your approach.

Measuring Your Progress and Results

Tracking your progress throughout the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge can provide motivation and help you identify improvements in your digestive health. Here are some ways to measure your results:

Keep a Digestive Health Journal

Maintain a daily log of your digestive symptoms, energy levels, and overall well-being. Note any changes you observe as you progress through the challenge.

Monitor Regularity

Pay attention to changes in your bowel movements, including frequency, consistency, and ease of passage. Many participants report improvements in regularity within the first week.

Assess Energy Levels

Take note of your energy levels throughout the day. Many individuals report feeling more energetic and less sluggish after incorporating Metamucil into their routine.

Track Physical Comfort

Monitor any changes in bloating, abdominal discomfort, or feelings of fullness. These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to increased fiber intake.

Consider Before and After Measurements

If you’re comfortable doing so, consider taking waist measurements or photos at the beginning and end of the challenge. Some participants report feeling less bloated and noticing a difference in their physical appearance.

Remember, everyone’s body responds differently to dietary changes. While some may notice significant improvements quickly, others may experience more subtle changes over time. The key is to focus on your individual progress and how you feel overall.

Beyond the Two-Week Challenge: Maintaining Long-Term Digestive Health

Completing the Metamucil Two-Week Challenge is an excellent first step towards improved digestive health. However, the real benefits come from maintaining a consistent fiber routine beyond the initial two weeks. Here are some strategies for incorporating Metamucil into your long-term health regimen:

Gradual Increase in Fiber Intake

After the challenge, consider gradually increasing your fiber intake to meet the recommended daily amount. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends 25 to 38 grams of fiber per day for adults, depending on age and gender.

Combine Metamucil with a Balanced Diet

While Metamucil is an excellent source of fiber, it’s important to also focus on obtaining fiber from a variety of whole foods. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet for optimal digestive health.

Stay Hydrated

Continue to prioritize hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Adequate fluid intake is crucial for fiber to work effectively in your digestive system.

Regular Exercise

Combine your Metamucil routine with regular physical activity. Exercise can help promote healthy digestion and overall well-being.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body responds to your fiber intake and adjust as needed. Some individuals may benefit from taking Metamucil multiple times a day, while others may find once daily sufficient.

Regular Check-ins

Schedule periodic check-ins with yourself to assess your digestive health and overall well-being. This can help you stay motivated and make any necessary adjustments to your routine.

By incorporating these strategies and maintaining your Metamucil routine, you can continue to support your digestive health and overall wellness long after the Two-Week Challenge has ended.

What is Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge? │ Metamucil

What is Metamucil’s Two Week Challenge?

Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge is a program that helps you get started with your daily Metamucil routine. It’s a fun way to keep you on track with taking Metamucil powders or capsules daily, so you can feel the full effect of psyllium fiber working in your gut.

Why two weeks? As with any dietary change, your body needs time to adjust. While you’ll likely notice the regularity* benefits of Metamucil sooner, we’re confident that after two weeks you’ll be feeling lighter and more energetic** and well on your way to making it a part of your daily health routine.

After you sign up, you’ll get an email every day for two weeks with tips, tricks, and reminders to keep you going strong on your daily Metamucil.

Why Should I Take Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge?

It’s a challenge to add something new to your daily routine. But we believe that Metamucil can make a difference in your overall health, and we want to help you along your digestive health journey. Don’t just take our word for it, see what other people have to say after taking the Two-Week Challenge:

• “I take it every morning. It makes me feel lighter and I feel good all day.” – Frances, South Carolina
• “I was having some issues with irregularity. Metamucil fixed me. I feel so much better. I feel… less sluggish. I will continue to use Metamucil as a part of my daily routine.” – Camille, Pennsylvania
• “Metamucil worked great. I feel and look so much better. No more bloating… It also has brought my cholesterol numbers down & put my numbers where they need to be. I use it every night…” – Patricia, Massachusetts
• “I put the container on the counter for my morning ritual! Really loved the taste & looked forward to getting it daily. I also got three friends to come onboard…” – Elaine, Tennessee
• “I’ve been taking Metamucil for about three weeks now, it’s great… My poop is nice and soft, it comes out easy…” – Michael, New Jersey
• “Got to admit, it works. It eases that bloated belly feeling and keeps ‘things moving.’” – Allen, New York

How to Join Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

Ready to join for the Two-Week Challenge? Sign up here for daily inspirational reminders. visit our product pages or your favorite retailer to decide which Metamucil psyllium fiber supplement is right for you.

Once you have your Metamucil – it’s time to get started! Follow the instructions on the package and take your Metamucil daily for two full weeks.

10 Tips for Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge

1. Pick the Metamucil Psyllium Fiber Product that Fits Your Lifestyle

Metamucil’s psyllium fiber comes in many forms and flavors. For your Two-Week Challenge, choose from our Powders and Capsules. If your lifestyle is more on-the-go, you may prefer Metamucil Capsules so you can keep them in your bag and take them at a time convenient to you. If you prefer to take your Metamucil in the morning when you wake up or in the evening before bed, then you may prefer mixing the Metamucil Powders into a cool drink. No matter which form you take—remember to take it daily.

2. Start Slow and Increase Your Psyllium Intake
Start with one serving daily of Metamucil at first, then gradually increase to your desired intake. You may experience gas or bloating in the first few days as your body adjusts to the added fiber. This is normal and should go away as your body gets used to the added fiber.

3. Put Powder into the Glass First
Make sure to put the powder into the dry, empty glass before pouring in the liquid. That will ensure a smoother drink so you can enjoy getting your daily fiber.

4. Only Mix into Cool Liquid
If you choose powdered Metamucil, you can mix with juice or water, but make sure that the liquid is cool. Hot liquids make it hard to mix and drink your Metamucil because the psyllium fiber gels faster in comparison.

5. Take it at the Same Time Every Day
It’s Metamucil-o-clock for someone out there, somewhere. Anytime is a good time to take Metamucil. Pick a time you know you’ll be consistent with – whether that’s in the morning with breakfast, with each meal, or before you head to bed. Naturally fitting Metamucil into your regular routine makes it easier to stay consistent. Set a reminder on your phone, tablet, computer, or alarm clock to help keep you on track. Metamucil can be taken up to 3x per day.

6. Add Metamucil to Your Smoothies
Metamucil powders can be mixed into more than just water or your favorite juice. You can also add it to your favorite smoothie or shake recipe. For example – try Metamucil’s Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe . The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of low-fat vanilla yogurt, 1/2 of a peeled banana, 1/4 cup mango juice, 1 rounded teaspoon of Metamucil Orange Powder, and 1/2 a cup of ice. Blend it all together and drink up to get 5g of fiber in your diet. Check out more Metamucil recipes here.

7. Pick Up Where You Left Off
Life can be incredibly busy sometimes and distract you from keeping up your healthy habits like exercise and taking your daily Metamucil. If you miss a day of Metamucil, don’t stress it. Pick up where you left off and continue your daily regimen.

8. Nominate a Friend to Take the Challenge with You
Invite a friend to take Metamucil’s Two-Week Challenge with you. Keep each other accountable by sending daily reminders to each other or selfies. Or add a friendly competition to the mix to incentivize taking your Metamucil even more. Winner can treat the other friend to a new cannister of Metamucil powders or a high-fiber lunch!

9. Read the Directions
It may sound obvious to simply recommend reading the directions . Identify the benefits you want to get from Metamucil—whether that’s to increase your daily fiber intake or help you feel less hungry in between meals* or something else. Then check the label to see how best to take it daily to deliver those benefits.

10. Keep Taking Metamucil Beyond the Two Weeks!
Metamucil’s Two Week Challenge isn’t the only time you can take Metamucil—in fact, you can take it every day, 365 days a year! If you’re enjoying the benefits you’re getting from taking your Metamucil during these two weeks, why stop? Keep up your daily psyllium fiber routine so you can feel what lighter feels like* year-round.

Plus, when taken daily over a longer period of time, you can get up to four different benefits from Metamucil’s psyllium fiber. Keep reading to learn about each benefit.

4 Health Benefits Metamucil Can Provide

Metamucil’s psyllium fiber capsules and powders have three different benefits that support your overall health and wellbeing. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Helps promote digestive health*

Taking Metamucil daily can help support regularity.* The psyllium fiber in Metamucil powders and capsules forms a gel that moves through the digestive tract helping trap and remove the waste.*

2. Helps support heart health by lowering cholesterol†

The gelled psyllium traps some bile acids in the small intestine. This prevents reabsorption, and the trapped bile acids can pass into the large intestine with waste. At that point, the liver would draw more cholesterol from the blood to make new bile acids, thus resulting in lower blood cholesterol levels. †

3. Helps Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels*

The psyllium fiber in Metamucil powders and capsules form a viscous gel that traps sugars. They are then slowly released and absorbed into the body, helping you maintain healthy blood sugar levels.*

4. Bonus Metamucil Powders Also Help you feel less hungry between meals*

When you take Metamucil powders, the gel formed by the psyllium fiber in your stomach can help you feel fuller longer, helping curb your hunger between meals by reducing your desire to eat.*

Metamucil Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used to treat constipation. It increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.Psyllium, one type of bulk-forming laxative, has also been used along with a proper diet to treat high cholesterol.

How to use Metamucil 0.4 Gram Capsule

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. To prevent choking from this medication, take it with a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters). If you are taking the wafers, chew them thoroughly before swallowing.

For powder forms of this medication, measure each dose according to the directions on the product label. Mix in a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters), stir completely, and drink right away. You may add more liquid to the mixture if it becomes too thick. When preparing the medication, be careful not to breathe in the powder since it may rarely cause an allergic reaction.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.

This product may decrease the absorption of other medications you may be taking. Take this product at least 2 hours from your other medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

It may take 1 to 3 days before this medication starts working. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Gas or stomach cramping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This product must be taken with at least a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters) so that it will not swell in the throat, causing choking. Get medical help right away if after taking this product you have symptoms of choking such as: chest pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing/breathing.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking this bulk-forming laxative, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: stomach/intestinal blockage, difficulty swallowing, appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Some products may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How To Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Does Metamucil 0.4 Gram Capsule interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Pros and Cons of Metamucil 2023

Metamucil is one of the most popular and widely used dietary fiber in the US. It has been around for decades, and while many people rely on it to stay regular, it can also provide amazing health benefits. But, as with any supplement, there are some potential downsides to consider. To help you decide if Metamucil is right for you, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of taking this popular fiber supplement.

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What makes a good password? obtained from seeds of a plant native to India. It is available in both capsule and powder form and is easy to add to your daily diet. Metamucil may help you feel fuller for longer, which can help you maintain a healthy weight and may also promote regularity. In addition, since Metamucil is made from natural sources, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is gentle on your digestive system and easy to digest.

The Surprising Health Benefits of Taking Metamucil

Metamucil not only promotes regularity but also offers other health benefits. Studies have shown that taking dietary supplements such as metamucil can help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar, and help control blood pressure. It may also help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal disorders. For these reasons, many health professionals recommend Metamucil as a way to improve overall health and wellness.

Potential downsides to be aware of

As with any supplement, there are potential downsides to taking Metamucil. In some cases, fiber intake can cause bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. It is important to start at a low dosage and gradually increase it as your body adjusts to the supplement to avoid these side effects. In addition, it is important to know that some people may experience an allergic reaction to psyllium husk, the main ingredient in Metamucil. If you experience any side effects, stop taking the supplement and contact your doctor.

Is Metamucil right for you?

Whether Metamucil is the right supplement for you depends on your individual needs and health goals. If you’re looking to increase your fiber intake or improve your overall health, Metamucil is a good option. But if you have any digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, it’s best to talk to your doctor first to make sure Metamucil is a safe and appropriate option for you.

Examining evidence

There is ample evidence that taking a fiber supplement such as Metamucil can be beneficial for overall health and well-being. Research has shown that taking fiber supplements can help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar, and help control blood pressure. In addition, Metamucil is made from natural sources and is gentle on the digestive system, making it a good choice for people with digestive problems.

Let Metamucil do its magic

When taking Metamucil, it is important to start at a low dosage and gradually increase it as your body adjusts to the supplement. It is also important to drink plenty of water, as Metamucil can cause constipation if not taken with enough fluids. Finally, be sure to talk to your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions or if you have any questions or concerns.

Metamucil is a popular fiber supplement that has been used for decades to promote regularity and improve overall health. While there are potential downsides such as bloating and abdominal discomfort, the benefits of taking supplements like Metamucil outweigh the downsides. So if you are looking for a way to increase your dietary fiber intake and improve your overall health, Metamucil may be the right supplement for you.

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Treatment of Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Inflammation develops in the intestinal wall, which often extends to deeper layers, leads to digestive disorders (severe diarrhea, malnutrition, weight loss) and can cause some serious complications. Crohn’s disease is a precancerous condition: in such patients, the risk of developing a malignant tumor in the colon is significantly increased.

There is no cure for Crohn’s disease. However, modern treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and even lead to long-term remission. Many patients lead active, fulfilling lives. In International Clinic Medica24 all modern methods of combating this disease are used. Our experienced doctors use the latest generation of medicines, perform surgical interventions of any complexity in an operating room equipped with modern equipment.

Our expert in this area:

Sergeev Petr Sergeevich

Deputy chief physician for medical work. Oncologist, surgeon, chemotherapist, Ph.D.

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Causes of the disease and risk factors

The exact causes of Crohn’s disease are unknown. Previously, it was believed that certain dietary habits and chronic stress lead to the disease. It has now been established that these factors can contribute to the progression of pathological changes in the intestine, but do not lead to them directly. According to modern concepts, Crohn’s disease develops as a result of the influence of various factors:

• Violation of the immune system. The immune system begins to react incorrectly to pathogens and attack the body’s own tissues, including the intestinal wall. It is believed that certain bacterial or viral infections lead to this disorder. However, it has not yet been possible to establish which pathogens have this effect.
• Heredity. 20% of patients have close relatives who have previously been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. It is possible that certain genes are responsible for the predisposition to the disease. But in many patients, the family history is not burdened at all.
• Features of the intestinal microflora and the influence of external factors. Their role is currently under discussion.

Some risk factors are also known:

• Age. Crohn’s disease can develop in any age group, but is most commonly diagnosed in people in their 30s.
• Ethnic origin. Most often, Crohn’s disease is diagnosed in whites, especially Ashkenazi Jews. But at present, the prevalence of the disease is growing among the black population of the United States and Great Britain.
• Smoking. This is the most significant risk factor that can be influenced. A bad habit not only contributes to the development of the disease, but also makes its course more severe. Smokers with Crohn’s disease are more likely than non-smokers to need surgery.
• Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For example, ibuprofen belongs to this group. These drugs do not increase the risk of developing Crohn’s disease, but they can cause inflammation in the intestines, which can make it worse.

Symptoms

Crohn’s disease can occur in many different ways. Sometimes its symptoms increase gradually, and sometimes they appear suddenly. Different sections of the intestine may be involved in the pathological process, depending on this, in accordance with the Montreal classification, several forms of the disease are distinguished:

Colitis – with damage to the colon.

All three forms can be associated with lesions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, rectum, anus. In rare cases, the upper intestine and anorectal zone are affected separately.

If less than 6 months have passed since the onset of the first symptoms, then they speak of an acute course of Crohn’s disease. The chronic course is continuous and recurrent – when, during treatment, the patient has remissions for more than 6 months, and then a relapse occurs again. Depending on how long the bowel is affected in the aggregate, Crohn’s disease can be localized (less than 30 cm) or widespread (more than 100 cm).

Symptoms depend on all these features. In the active stage, Crohn’s disease can manifest itself with symptoms such as diarrhea, fever over 38 degrees, pain and cramps in the abdomen, constant fatigue, ulcers on the oral mucosa, blood in the stool, loss of appetite, weight loss. Some patients develop fistulas in the anus, holes that connect the intestine to the surface of the skin. At the same time, pain is disturbing, the contents of the intestine are released from the fistula.

In severe cases of Crohn’s disease, a number of extraintestinal manifestations may occur: inflammatory changes in the skin, eyes, joints, inflammation of the liver, bile ducts, iron deficiency anemia, kidney stones.

Possible complications of Crohn’s disease:

• Intestinal obstruction. In the process of healing of ulcers, scars form in the intestinal wall, which block its lumen and disrupt the passage of stool. In such cases, surgical treatment is indicated.
• Ulcers. They can appear not only in the intestine, but also on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity, in the anus.
• Fistulas. These are pathological openings that can connect loops of the intestine to each other, to other organs (for example, the bladder, vagina), the surface of the skin in the anus.
• Abscess. This term refers to a cavity with pus. In Crohn’s disease, it is formed as a result of purulent inflammation in the fistula.
• An anal fissure is a small tissue tear. It can become infected or lead to a fistula.
• Exhaustion. Diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps can make it difficult to eat and absorb important substances. Because of this, the patient loses a lot of weight. Some patients develop B12 deficiency anemia because vitamin B12 is not absorbed.
• Cancer. Crohn’s disease is a precancerous condition and increases the risk of developing colon cancer. In addition, patients receive immunosuppressive therapy. These drugs suppress the immune system and increase the risk of developing lymphoma, skin cancer, and a number of other malignant neoplasms.
• Thrombosis. Crohn’s disease increases the risk of blood clots in the vessels of the lower extremities.

Diagnostic methods

To detect pathological changes in the intestines in Crohn’s disease, the following diagnostic methods are used:

• Colonoscopy scope. During this procedure, the endoscopist examines the entire length of the intestinal mucosa and, having detected pathologically altered tissues, can immediately remove their sample and send it to the laboratory for histological examination (biopsy). Detection of inflammatory elements – granulomas – during the study of tissue under a microscope helps to confirm the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease.
• The Video Capsule Endoscopy can be used as an alternative to colonoscopy in some cases. The patient is asked to swallow a small capsule containing a miniature video camera. It passes through the entire digestive tract and records the image.
• Computed tomography helps to assess the condition of not only the intestines, but also other organs. Often, CT enterography is performed – CT in combination with the use of a contrast solution. This study has now almost completely replaced radiography with contrast, which was widely used in the past.
• Magnetic resonance imaging is particularly useful for evaluating fistulas.
• Balloon-assisted enteroscopy is an endoscopic examination of the small intestine using a special endoscope and balloon tube. During this procedure, as well as during a colonoscopy, a biopsy can be performed.

Laboratory tests for Crohn’s disease include complete blood count, infection tests, coprogram, stool test for occult blood, parasitic infections.

Treatment of Crohn’s disease

There is no single treatment regimen for Crohn’s disease for all patients. Therapy for each patient is selected individually, and in some cases surgical interventions are also indicated. The main goals of treatment are to reduce the inflammation that causes the symptoms of the disease, minimize the risk of complications, and improve prognosis. If it was possible to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of life of the patient, this can be considered a success. In the best case, a long-term remission can be achieved.

The main directions in the treatment of Crohn’s disease:

• diet;
• drug therapy;
• surgical interventions;
• psychosocial support.

Dietary recommendations

There is no universal diet that can improve the condition of all patients with Crohn’s disease. First of all, the patient must figure out which foods cause deterioration in him, and try to exclude them from the diet. The task of the diet for Crohn’s disease is to unload the intestines, give it a “rest” so that it can recover.

Foods that most often aggravate the course of the disease: alcohol in any form, butter, mayonnaise, margarine, carbonated drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, corn, dairy products (if the patient is lactose intolerant), fatty, fried foods, high fiber foods, lentils, beans, legumes, cabbage, broccoli, onions, nuts and seeds, raw fruits and vegetables, red meat, spicy foods, whole grains, bran.

The patient is advised to keep a food diary, write down everything he ate in it, make notes about his well-being. This helps to identify all unwanted foods and choose the optimal diet. Some types of food do not have to be completely abandoned. For example, if raw vegetables aggravate symptoms, you can try eating them boiled. If meat causes problems, then you can try switching to minced meat. Making a diet is a certain work that takes some time, and it must be done by the patient together with the attending physician and nutritionist.

Many patients, especially those with symptoms of bowel obstruction, are advised to avoid fiber-rich foods. This is necessary to reduce the volume of stool and prevent the development of intestinal obstruction.

Drug therapy

Since Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease, its treatment is often started with anti-inflammatory drugs: They have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, but are not effective in all patients with Crohn’s disease. Corticosteroids may be used short-term (within 3 to 4 months) to reduce symptoms or achieve remission. In some cases, they are combined with immunosuppressants – drugs that suppress immune responses. Currently, glucocorticosteroids are usually resorted to when other methods of treatment do not help the patient.

immunosuppressants also suppress inflammation by suppressing the immune system. They are often used in combination to increase the effectiveness of treatment:

• Azathioprine and mercaptopurine are the two immunosuppressive agents most commonly used to treat inflammatory bowel disease. During the course of treatment, the doctor must carefully monitor the patient’s condition, monitor blood counts. Immunosuppressants can weaken the immune system enough to increase the risk of developing dangerous infections. In addition, they can lead to inflammation of the liver. If these complications began to develop, the doctor should identify them in a timely manner and change the treatment regimen.
• Methotrexate is used in some patients who are not responding to other treatments. This drug can also cause serious side effects and requires monitoring of the patient’s condition, laboratory parameters during the course of therapy.

Biological Therapies (Bios) target specific proteins that are produced by the immune system. This is a modern group of medicines, it includes:

• Natalizumab (Tysabri) and vedolizumab (Entivio) prevent certain immune system proteins – integrins – from interacting with intestinal mucosal cells. Natalizumab can cause a very dangerous complication – progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy – so the indications for its use are very limited. No such risks have been identified for vedolizumab.
• Infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab (Humira), and certolizumab pegol (Cimsia) belongs to the group of TNF inhibitors. They block an immune system protein called tumor necrosis factor.
• Ustekinumab (Stelara) is the most modern drug that has been introduced very recently. It affects the effect of interleukin, a protein involved in inflammation.

Some antibiotics are also used for Crohn’s disease, eg ciprofloxacin, metronidazole. It is believed that antibacterial drugs help destroy pathogens that have led to a malfunction of the immune system. In addition, antibiotics help to reduce the outflow of the contents of fistulas and abscesses, and sometimes completely eliminate them.

All drugs described above are drugs that help control Crohn’s disease. Simultaneously, symptomatic therapy is carried out. Prescribe drugs that help to cope with the manifestations of the disease:

• Antidiarrheal drugs. Drugs such as metamucil and methylcellulose help manage mild to moderate diarrhea. Loperamide helps with severe diarrhea.
• Analgesics. In some cases, painkillers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), ibuprofen, naproxen are used for Crohn’s disease. However, in some cases, they can aggravate the course of the disease and worsen the symptoms.
• Vitamins and minerals . They can be prescribed if, due to malnutrition, the necessary substances do not enter the patient’s body.

Surgical treatment

There are 4 groups of indications for surgical treatment in Crohn’s disease:

1. Medication failure when medications fail to relieve symptoms.
2. Acute complications : intestinal bleeding, perforation (hole formation) of the intestinal wall, toxic dilatation of the colon (a rare complication in which the intestine expands more than 6 cm and there are signs of intoxication – poisoning of the body with substances that enter the blood through the intestinal wall).
3. Chronic complications : strictures (cicatricial narrowing) of the intestine, infiltrate in the abdominal cavity, intestinal fistulas, neoplasia (changes in mucous membrane cells that can lead to the development of a malignant tumor).
4. Growth retardation – usually seen in lesions of the upper intestines.

According to statistics, more than 70% of patients with Crohn’s disease need surgical treatment at one time or another. The decision to have an operation is always very difficult, doctors try to make it only in extreme cases. The specialists at the Medica24 International Clinic always carefully evaluate all potential benefits and risks, and if necessary, we convene consultations with the participation of experts.

In most cases of Crohn’s disease, bowel resection is performed – removal of part of it. This helps reduce symptoms, but does not lead to a complete cure. May relapse in another part of the bowel:

The risk of relapse can be reduced with medication. Smoking cessation is an important preventive measure. However, 50% of patients require further surgery. The larger the area of ​​the intestine that has to be removed, including during subsequent resections, the higher the risk of developing a complication – short bowel syndrome . Due to the loss of a large part of the intestine, the absorption of nutrients is disturbed, intestinal insufficiency develops. This condition manifests itself in the form of diarrhea, weight loss, general weakness, anemia, edema, muscle cramps, signs of hypovitaminosis.

Whenever possible, doctors try to resort to organ-preserving operations. For example, with intestinal strictures, interventions are performed aimed at restoring the normal width of its lumen: stricturoplasty, dilatation of strictures.

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Prognosis

There is no cure for Crohn’s disease. Most often it proceeds for a long time with periods of exacerbations and remissions.