Frequently Asked Questions About IBD

Q: How does an effective IBD supplement work?

One of the main side effects of IBD is deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals, so it is key to look for a supplement that provides these ingredients to replenish and overcome deficiencies. Some of the more common deficiencies include B vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K, and minerals such as Iron, Zinc and Calcium. It is also essential to include ingredients that act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents to try and combat the chronic inflammation that is common with IBD. These would be Ginger, Turmeric and Boswellia extract, which have all been clinically tested and have been shown to vastly reduce inflammation in IBD sufferers.

The correct formula holds the key to success so look for something that contains doses backed by scientific data that work to overcome deficiencies in the most optimal manner. 

Q: Do all IBD supplements work?

Unfortunately, they do not. There are many shady companies that just go along with the latest health trends, formulating supplements that contain unnecessary or inactive ingredients and the wrong potencies or amounts. Often, they even add cheap fillers, binders, hormones, artificial colorings, or preservatives that can hinder the effects of the active ingredients. Do your homework and check the labels to make sure you are taking a quality product and not just some inactive powders in a pill.

Q: What are the important points to look out for?

IBD supplements should:

• Contain Folate as 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) – the more bioavailable form.
• Include Vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin, a form which is less likely to exacerbate IBD symptoms.
• Contain Calcium Citrate which is the more absorbable form of Calcium and helps support low bone density, a common side effect of IBD.   
• Include Iron, in the form of Iron Bisglycinate, a more soluble form of Iron which addresses the common deficiency in IBD sufferers without causing discomfort.
• Provide key anti-inflammatory components such as Boswellia, Turmeric and Ginger.
• Contain BioPerine^® (or similar) to aid absorption, efficacy, and faster results.
• Not contain any binders, fillers, additives, hormones, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.
• Be 100% pure, natural and with no unnecessary ingredients that could reduce the effectiveness of the product.

Q: Are there any known side effects to look out for?

Of course, each product is different, so it is always wise to read the label thoroughly and follow the instructions carefully. Our research analyzed many products that generally do not present any side effects if used correctly. However, as with any supplement, we recommend consulting with a doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an existing medical condition or are taking regular medication.

Q: What are the dosage instructions for IBD supplements?

Again, this differs between products. Always read the label thoroughly and follow the instructions carefully. If you exceed the suggested dosage you could pose health risks to yourself. Generally, we found that most products suggest taking 2 capsules per day.

Q: How long before I start to see results?

Some consumers experience positive effects within a few weeks. For others, it can take longer. Everybody is different. Additionally, results will vary depending on other factors such as your diet, lifestyle choices, and genetic disposition. If you’re skeptical about seeing results, choose a provider who offers a complete money-back satisfaction guarantee as this indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Q: What should I expect to pay for a good IBD supplement?

The cost of products varies among manufacturers. Unfortunately, many are cheap, useless supplements that have been formulated without any thought for safety or efficacy. Some of these companies are selling their products for around $100 per bottle, which is much too expensive. On average, the best supplements we found are selling between the $40-$50 price range. Oftentimes, a cheaper price is indicative of low quality or a low recommended serving, which will not be sufficiently effective. Be aware. Read the labels.

Q: Which IBD supplement is the best one to buy?

Since each person’s experience of a product is different, it is difficult to say specifically which one is the best. That said, based on several factors, we did like Approved Science Bowelsyl the most. We found that from the 50+ products that we analyzed, Approved Science Bowelsyl had the best quality of ingredients, potency and strength, consumer feedback, and customer service.

Ultimately, the choice is yours. We hope that our research has gone some way in helping you make your choice. If you are looking for an effective product, we think you can’t go wrong with Approved Science Bowelsyl. It is an excellent quality product with great reviews and is well priced.