Natural TNF blockers to replace remicade?

First off I'd like to say I hope everyone's doing well and inflammation free. I've been doing a lot of research and I'm finding it harder and harder to believe that moderate crohn's can't be controlled naturally. Regulation of the immune system may be a challenge but I'm in the process of putting together a protocol to try and get off remicade once and for all. I'm wondering if anyone has tried to match the power of remicade as a TNF blocker with natural substances? I found a great post the other day and thought it needs a bump. Anyone used Flax seed oil, essential oils, or any vitamins that helped not listed in my signature? Im a strong believer that the first place we all need to start is to cut out all the processed toxic chemicals we put in our body. Pharmaceuticals come up with meds that help with symptoms, but profit is still the name of the game. These are the type of communities that can really make a difference if we can work together and figure out combinations of things that really work. As amazing as my doctor is, the fact that he's never brought up nutrition once when talking about my intestinal disease proves that our medical system is broken. I don't need more patented chemicals in my body, I need a safe and effective treatment that promotes overall health. Heres the list :

Reposted from bananagirl

1. Fish Oil. It's no secret that omega-3's are one of your most potent inflammation fighters and studies have shown this to be true in the case of tnf as well. In one study of healthy volunteers, tnf-alpha synthesis was dramatically reduced by 74% as fish oil dosage was increased to about 9 grams per day. NOTE: This is a hefty dose and higher than what is normally recommended for typical fish oil supplementation. Going with a smaller dosage should result in significant reductions according to this study.

2. CoQ10. A number of studies have shown that this antioxidant molecule reduces tnf levels.

3. Mediterranean Diet. One study the degree of adherence to a Mediterranean Diet was inversely related to TNF-alpha levels. In other words, the more the Mediterranean Diet, the less the tnf.

4. Turmeric / Curcumin. Many studies have shown that this spice, present in yellow mustard and curry, inhibits TNF production.

5. Green Tea / EGCG. EGCG is one of the most potent of all plant phytochemicals and has a host of miraculous properties. Multiple studies show that EGCG limits TNF-alpha production.

6. Vitamin E / Alpha Tocopherol. This vitamin not only limits TNF release in arteries but also prevents oxidation of LDL and many other processes that lead to arteriosclerosis. [6] Although scientists have studies alpha tocopherol, it is probably prudent to only take mixed tocopherol Vitamin E because the alpha form can lower levels of the others (gamma, etc.).

7. Ashwagandha. This traditional ayurvedic herb has been shown to reduce TNF-alpha output.

8. Magnesium. There is strong evidence that low magnesium levels can negatively affect TNF levels. [8] Of course, one can easily get enough magnesium from a well-rounded, plant-based diet, but still many in modern societies do not.

10. Tart Cherry Juice. This cherry juice is, well, tart, but is well worth the effort as it tightly clamps down on rising TNF alpha levels. It is so powerful at controlling inflammation that is can reduce post-exercise muscle soreness and is used by many athletes already.

11. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR). One of the most powerful ways to control TNF alpha levels is actually not a food, juice or supplement but rather a time-proven relaxation technique. PMR was developed originally as psychological tool but has since proven itself to help with many health-related issues.

NOTE: TNF alpha is not the only cytokine that needs to be controlled. In addition, many foods and a number of supplements favorably alter the upstream TNF inflammatory signaling.. Alpha lipoic acid and an extract of Korean Ginseng are examples of this. [10][11] [12] It should be noted, though, that other extract of Ginseng have actually stimulated TNF-alpha itself. [13] Quercetin, the miracle phytochemical in apples and onions, is also in this category.

CAUTION: The only potentially negative affect of cocoa that I know is that it does seem to stimulate TNF-alpha. [9] The same thing has been found in certain Korean Ginseng extracts as well. [12]



Thanks for reading!

Andrew

I'm on board with the miraculous benefits of cannabis. The research showing Cannabinoid receptors in the gut is really interesting, and stories like that of Coltyn Turner make me feel great. I currently vaporize on occasion, but will have to get serious about getting my medical license so I can be more picky in my strain selection. Oil seems like the best route to have the cannabinoids absorbed directly into the gut, but instead of a rick simpson oil I will use coconut oil as the solvent instead. Has anyone had experience with cannabis oil? I'm in contact with Coltyns Crue once in awhile so i'm sure they can suggest the right CBD/THC ratios and dosages etc. That said I think that Cannabis/ Nutrient packed diet/ supplementation/ exercise will be the magic combination. I just started reading Dr. Kleins book, and as skeptical as I am after reading all the negative comments it seems like a good read. The key is not going to be that one Omega capsule is going to cure your disease. The key to finding a natural protocol that works as effectively or more so than Remicade will have to be an overall lifestyle protocol. Lets face it, Crohn's rates have skyrocketed, and it's not because us Crohnie gene holders are having more babies than everyone else. If we're going to stop this madness it'll have to be me and you who figure it out. The reality is that the whole health industry is about making profit first. Disease maintenance increases stock value, natural cures do not. Unless we're talking about stock in our friendly neighbourhood mj dealer! Take care everyone,
Andrew