Crohn’s disease is a disorder of the intestine, causing chronic inflammation and weakness of the gastrointestinal tract. Experts believe that Crohn’s disease is caused by a defective immune response to intestinal bacteria which activates the inflammation. Now research reports that vitamin D may decrease the risk of Crohn’s disease. Vitamin D is known to play an important role in the immune response. About 50 percent of Americans are vitamin D deficient.
The study, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, investigated the effect of vitamin D on genes that combat invading microbial invaders. The beta defensin 2 gene and the NOD2 gene are linked to Crohn’s disease. The beta defensin 2 gene encodes an antimicrobial protein. The NOD2 gene warns cells about invading bacteria and stimulates beta defensin 2. If the NOD2 gene is defective, it can’t fight invading microbial invaders in the intestinal tract.
The researchers found that vitamin D directly stimulates the NOD2 gene and beta defensin 2 gene. These results suggest that vitamin D deficiency can play a part in Crohn’s disease. People who are vitamin D deficient would have an increased risk of developing Crohn’s disease.
“This discovery is exciting, since it shows how an over-the-counter supplement such as Vitamin D could help people defend themselves against Crohn’s disease,” says study author Marc J. Servant, a professor at the University of Montreal, in a news release. “We have identified a new treatment avenue for people with Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory bowel diseases.”
Ablene Promotes GI Health
Crohn’s disease affects more than a million people worldwide. Taking natural nutrients can help promote GI health and reduce IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) symptoms.
Progressive Health’s Ablene is a digestive health supplement containing vitamin D3, olive extract, cat’s claw, licorice, betaine, l-glutamine and other essential vitamins and minerals. Ablene restores lost nutrients while preventing inflammation; helping to relieve symptoms and promote digestive health.
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