Crohn’s & IBS

🧾 Dr. Luka Kovač’s IBS Support Protocol

“The gut is not just the second brain — it is the battlefield of your immune system and your peace of mind.”
— Dr. Luka Kovač

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🌴 1. Coconut Oil

• Why: Anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial; contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily digestible.
• How to Use: 1–2 tbsp daily in cooking or smoothies.

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🍎 2. Apple Cider Vinegar

• Why: Supports digestion, balances stomach acid, and has probiotic qualities if raw/unfiltered.
• How to Use: 1 tbsp in warm water before meals. Avoid overuse as it may irritate some guts.

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🦠 3. Probiotics

• Why: Restore healthy gut flora, improve bowel regularity, reduce bloating and gas.
• Types to Look For:
  • Lactobacillus plantarum (great for IBS)
  • Bifidobacterium infantis
  • Saccharomyces boulardii (yeast-based, good for diarrhea-dominant IBS)
• Note: Start low-dose; symptoms may flare before improving.

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🌿 4. Aloe Vera Juice

• Why: Soothing to the intestinal lining, reduces inflammation.
• How to Use: 2–4 oz per day. Make sure it’s decolorized and purified (no aloin).

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🌱 5. Peppermint Oil & Tea

• Why: Relaxant for intestinal smooth muscle; reduces cramps and bloating.
• How to Use:
  • Tea: 1–2 cups daily
  • Capsules: Enteric-coated capsules (180–200 mg) 2–3x/day before meals

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🌿 6. Olive Leaf Extract

• Why: Anti-microbial, supports immune health, may balance gut flora.
• How to Use: Capsules or tincture; follow dosing instructions.

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🚫 7. Gluten-Free Diet

• Why: Many IBS patients have non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Gluten can trigger inflammation and symptoms.
• Note: Try 4–6 weeks gluten-free, then reintroduce cautiously.

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🌾 8. Herbal Fibre (e.g., Psyllium Husk, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root)

• Why: Helps regulate bowel movements (esp. for constipation). Slippery elm and marshmallow soothe the gut lining.
• Caution: Insoluble fibers (like bran) may worsen symptoms. Focus on soluble fiber.

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🌿 9. Wheatgrass

• Why: Rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, enzymes. May aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation.
• How to Use: 1 oz shot daily, increase slowly.

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🥬 10. Cabbage & Cabbage Juice

• Why: Natural source of Vitamin U (S-methylmethionine), known to help heal gastric ulcers and may soothe gut lining.
• Warning: May cause bloating/gas in some IBS patients — introduce slowly or ferment it (sauerkraut).

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🧪 11. Vitamin U (S-Methylmethionine)

• Why: “Unknown Vitamin” found in cabbage juice, supports mucosal healing.
• Use: Often in juiced cabbage or supplements labeled “Vitamin U.”

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💊 Other Supplements That May Be Added

• L-Glutamine – Amino acid that supports gut lining integrity
• Magnesium Glycinate – For constipation relief and calming nerves
• Digestive Enzymes – Assist in breaking down food
• Vitamin D – Low levels are correlated with worse IBS
• Zinc Carnosine – Supports mucosal repair

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🚫 What to Avoid

• Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, mannitol)
• Excess caffeine
• Alcohol
• Dairy (for lactose intolerant)
• FODMAP-rich foods (onions, garlic, etc.) if you’re sensitive

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🧘‍♂️ Dr. Luka’s Lifestyle Tip:

“No food or vitamin can heal what stress destroys. A calm mind is the foundation of a healthy gut.”
Incorporate yoga, meditation, or prayer. Practice slow eating and gratitude.