Mood interventions may help reduce inflammation, AI-designed drug for IBD, etc

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Mood Interventions May Help Reduce Inflammation in Ulcerative Colitis and Chron’s Disease (3 minute read)

New research reveals mood interventions, such as psychotherapy and antidepressants, can reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by 18%. The gut-brain connection suggests stress affects gut inflammation. These interventions may offer a cost-effective alternative to IBD treatments, potentially making management more affordable and effective.

AI-designed drug for inflammatory bowel disease enters human clinical trials: 'A significant need' (6 minute read)

Insilico Medicine, a biotech firm, introduced ISM5411, an AI-designed drug for IBD. It targets PHD to enhance gut barrier protection genes. The drug, in Phase I trials, aims to revolutionize IBD treatment by promoting mucosal repair. Although promising, concerns about long-term effects and data biases exist. Public awareness and education are crucial as AI-driven drugs enter clinical settings.

How does chronic stress harm the gut? New clues emerge (3 minute read)

Chronic stress alters gut microbiome, triggering biochemical changes that reduce intestinal protector cells. In stressed mice, Lactobacillus bacteria produce indole-3-acetate (IAA), hindering stem cells' transformation. Elevated Lactobacillus and IAA also found in depressed humans. Supplement α-ketoglutarate shows promise in restoring stem cell metabolism, hinting at potential treatment avenues. Upstream effects of stress on gut-brain signaling and long-term effects of the supplement require further investigation.

Tackling Crohn’s through a new lens (4 minute read)

Kai Thaws, a 19-year-old filmmaker from Bristol, shares his journey with Crohn’s Disease through a short film, aiming to raise awareness. Crohn’s, an Inflammatory Bowel Disease, afflicted Kai for months before diagnosis. Supported by his mother, he emphasizes the importance of mental and physical support for those with similar conditions. Crohn’s & Colitis UK encourages understanding and offers practical tips for caregivers. Kai remains determined to pursue his filmmaking dreams despite the challenges posed by his condition.

What Is the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD)? (8 minute read)

The Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) is an exclusion diet beneficial for conditions like IBD. Developed in the 1920s for celiac disease, it targets dysbiosis by eliminating certain foods and promoting beneficial bacteria growth. SCD involves a gradual reintroduction of foods. While it shows promise in reducing IBD symptoms, its restrictiveness and complexity make long-term adherence challenging. Consulting a knowledgeable healthcare provider is advisable before starting the SCD.

Chinese Herbal Medicine May Help People with Ulcerative Colitis Stay Symptom-Free (3 minute read)

A small study showed that ulcerative colitis patients continuing Indigo naturalis therapy had higher remission rates after a year compared to those who stopped. Those who relapsed and resumed therapy also saw symptom improvements. Though promising, more rigorous trials are needed due to potential side effects and lack of FDA regulation on herbal supplements.

I was 14 and had blood in my stool, Ulcerative Colitis changed my life forever (9 minute read)

Zosia Krajewska, an IT advisor from London, shares her battle with ulcerative colitis since 15. Despite horrific symptoms and treatment challenges, she pursued education, struggled with relapses, and adopted complementary therapies. Now, managing with biologic injections, supplements, and lifestyle changes, she focuses on mental well-being and aims to raise awareness of chronic illnesses.