Introduction
Colitis is a term that refers to many diseases occurring in the large intestine. In India, this term is mostly used for bloody diarrhea which is caused by infection of a germ called Entamoeba. It is also called chronic amoebiasis.
Colitis is also called ulcerative colitis. It is a common stomach disease in which the large intestine of the patient gets inflamed. Due to inflammation, the patient starts having problems like severe stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, fever, weakness, weight loss, insomnia, etc.
The patient suffering from this disease should immediately get it examined and treated properly. If it is not treated on time, it can take a serious form and can also cause many other diseases.
Colitis – Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms-
The main symptoms of colitis are diarrhoea with mucus, mostly watery diarrhoea, occurring several times a day, abdominal pain which increases with touching or pressing, and foul smelling diarrhoea. In more severe cases, pus mixed with blood is another symptom.
This problem often keeps increasing and decreasing. The disease continues for many years with periods of remission and recurrence. The patient becomes weak and frail due to the disease and develops anaemia.
Causes-
Colitis can have various causes, including infections, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), ischemic colitis (due to reduced blood flow to the colon), radiation colitis (resulting from radiation therapy), and microscopic colitis (inflammation visible only under a microscope). Additionally, certain medications, autoimmune reactions, and genetic factors can contribute to its development.
Yogic Management of Colitis
According to yogic physiology, colitis is a disease that occurs due to the slowing down of digestive power (Jathragni). Jathragni is related to Agni element and Manipur Chakra.
As a result of slowing down of Jathragni, the number of disease-causing bacteria increases and the chemical and muscular processes of the intestines slow down. Due to all these processes, the immune system also gets stimulated in an unbalanced manner and instead of fighting the disease, it starts causing harm.
Due to incomplete functioning of the intestines, food is not digested properly and undigested waste material comes out with the stool. Due to the reaction of both these half-digested material and bacteria, the patient’s stool smells bad.
The aim of Yogic therapy is to increase both Prana energy and Jathragni, so that the entire disordered process can be rebalanced. The path to health and well-being is paved by practicing yoga.
This program is recommended for all those people who are suffering from diseases like chronic diarrhea, dysentery, ulcerative colitis, irritable colon and stress dysentery. After the acute phase of the disease is over, practice can be started according to your capacity. Regular and controlled practice will surely prove to be fruitful.
Asanas-
Start with Pawanmuktasana part-1 and part-2, then practice Shakti Bandha group. Starting from the simple practice of Vajrasana, gradually practice Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana, Shalabhasana, Paschimottanasana, Sarvangasana, Halasana, Matsyasana, Chakrasana, Ardhamatsyendrasana, Mayurasana, Padmasana, Shavasana, finally practice Shirshasana.
Pranayama- Sheetali, Sheetkari, Nadi Shodhana and Ujjayi.
Mudras and Bandhas- Viparitakarini Mudra, Yoga Mudra, Ashwini Mudra and Moola Bandha.
Shatkriyas- Laghu Shankhaprakshalana, Kunjal and Neti, Agnisar Kriya (not for patients with ulcerative colitis) can be practiced when the healing process is on the path of being fully established.
Relaxation- Practice Yoga Nidra daily and try to increase the consciousness of abdominal breathing by lying down in Shavasana.
Meditation- The practice of introspection has a special place. Through this, the patient can be successful in identifying and eliminating the causes hidden in his subconscious mind, which play a major role in preventing the attack of colitis.
Diet tips for Colitis
While treating ulcerative colitis, it is necessary to choose a specific diet that can deliver nutrients to the body without putting pressure on the large intestine that has been suffering for years.
If too much strain is not put on the eyes during yoga therapy, the digestive power increases very rapidly. This statement is true for all types of colitis. This goal can be achieved by consuming normal food, salt and water in minimum quantity and taking milk in its place.
Milk is the ideal replacement diet in place of normal food. Follow this replacement throughout the treatment. Milk is a complete diet in itself that supplies all the necessary nutrients and produces minimum waste material.
While recovering from colitis, the large intestine should be kept free from any kind of irritation. Hence, milk proves to be ideal in this case, as it allows the wounds of the intestine to heal peacefully.
Plain Khichdi (rice, moong dal, boiled with vegetables) and Daliya (porridge) are also light foods that put minimum pressure on the digestive system and can be consumed with milk. However, milk should be taken one or two hours before or after these easily digestible foods, because they do not mix well when taken together.
What not to eat with colitis?
Spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate the digestive tract and worsen symptoms. Avoid foods with chili peppers, hot sauce, and other spices.
Fatty foods: Fried foods and fatty cuts of meat can be hard to digest and may trigger symptoms. Opt for lean proteins and healthier cooking methods like baking or grilling.
Alcohol and caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can irritate the digestive tract and worsen symptoms. Limit or avoid coffee, tea, alcohol, and other caffeinated beverages.
How to treat colitis in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, colitis is often treated through a combination of dietary modifications, herbal remedies, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques. Ayurvedic practitioners may prescribe specific herbal formulations tailored to the individual’s symptoms to address colitis and promote healing. It is important to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations and treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which yoga is best for colitis?
Yoga practices that focus on gentle movements, deep breathing, and stress reduction may be beneficial for managing colitis symptoms. Poses such as child's pose, cat-cow stretch, gentle twists, and mindful breathing exercises may be especially helpful.
Which pranayama is good for colitis?
Pranayama techniques like Kapalabhati and Anulom Vilom are often recommended for managing colitis symptoms. Kapalabhati helps in detoxifying the body and improving digestion, while Anulom Vilom promotes relaxation and balance in the digestive system. However, it's important to consult with a qualified yoga instructor or healthcare professional before starting any new pranayama practice.
What is the fastest way to cure colitis?
The quickest way to deal with colitis usually involves a combination of medications, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. However, it is essential to consult a health care professional for individualized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation and needs. Yoga may be beneficial to manage colitis symptoms by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
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