Breakthrough in identifying Crohn's disease risk
Wouldn't it be wonderful if around age 18 you could have a blood test that accurately predicted which chronic diseases you would get 10 to 60 years later? And what if docs then could put in a fix that prevented you from getting those conditions? That now may be possible for at least one disease.
Around 1 million Americans contend with Crohn's disease -- an inflammatory autoimmune condition that can affect the digestive tract, and cause malnutrition, mouth sores and diarrhea. If untreated it may lead to chronic fistulas and ulcers in the intestinal lining and blockages.
Treatment has been focused on easing symptoms by reducing inflammation and calming your immune response using steroids, immune-modulating medication and biologics. But a breakthrough study published in Gastroenterology has identified 29 proteins in the blood that appear years before a person has any symptoms of CD. And being able to spot them may allow a person to take steps to reverse their risk for a full-blown attack on their gut.
Those steps include avoiding overly processed, inflammatory foods in favor of high-fiber plants, lean proteins and foods with omega-3 fatty acids (salmon and sea trout). It also may be smart to use immune-regulating medications. Therapeutic plasma exchange (see the research from Dr Mike at Lifespan Edge) may also prevent -- maybe, even treat -- the disease in its early stages.
This is an example of the life-changing innovations research is sparking for the "The Great Age Reboot" for an in-depth exploration.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Comments