
Benefits of Fasting for IBD
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
There is no one-size-fits-all fix for inflammatory bowel disease. Systema IBD helps you find your unique pattern of interventions to develop a well-rounded, science-based protocol to get you to your remission goals.
We focus on interventions that have been scientifically studied and have a basis in the biological mechanisms of IBD.
IBD is multidimensional. Dysfunction in one area can pull the system off-balance, but a multi-pronged approach can bring you back into alignment.
Systema facilitates changes in habit and mindset that are foundational to long-term healing. Health is a habit.
You are more than a number. Our community embodies empathy and care, and each new member makes us stronger.
We focus on interventions that have been scientifically studied and have a basis in the biological mechanisms of IBD.
IBD is multidimensional. Dysfunction in one area can pull the system off-balance, but a multi-pronged approach can bring you back into alignment.
Systema IBD facilitates changes in habit and mindset that are foundational to long-term healing. Health is a habit.
You are more than a number. Our community embodies empathy and care, and each new member makes us stronger.
IBD is foremost an immune response to bacterial organisms and food particulates leaking across the epithelial membrane of the gut into the lamina propria (the “inside” of the body). Multiple cytokines like TNF and white blood cells like macrophages and neutrophils rush to battle with these “invaders”. Stopping the inflammatory cycle is Step 1 to achieving remission.
Specific gut microbiome profiles have been correlated with IBD, with even distinctions observed between Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Frontline medical interventions for IBD do not address the emerging evidence of the role of the microbiome. We can take action to nourish a healthy gut ecosystem.
The lining of the gut must selectively absorb important nutrients from food and keep everything else out. Reducing inflammation prevents damage to this protective tissue while microbiome-focused interventions can promote beneficial microbes that feed the enterocytes and fuel a strong intestinal barrier. Gut permeability is the mechanism least understood and addressed by current frontline IBD interventions.
The Systema IBD experiential learning platform is the most unique, comprehensive, immersive, and advanced curriculum currently available to IBD patients. We help you feel better immediately with tangible interventions you can implement with the support of your entire medical team. Then we build upon your early wins to teach you the foundations for long-lasting health and self-advocacy.
Dipali spending time with her family and thriving with ulcerative colitis.
Nikki achieved remission from a severe case of Crohn’s Colitis after Systema IBD in 2020
Nothing replaces live human-to-human contact and support. Our monthly schedule of virtual events means that members are never more than a couple of days away from getting support. During our weekly workshops, we work to explore your unique IBD challenges in the context of the scientific literature and in relation to how others are applying what they are learning and discovering about themselves.
Our events feature our expert science advisors, support resources for loved ones, and tailored IBD support.
Sarah and her family on a recent skiing trip—Member since 2021
Our amazing community makes us who we are. Professionals, parents, healthcare providers, students–we come from diverse backgrounds with unique biologies, but we ALL have IBD. Many members report they have no one else in their circle who really understands the good, bad, and ugly of living with IBD, and the taboo nature of symptoms means it’s just hard to relate.
Here at Systema IBD, we are connected by our common, profound desire to heal and support one another with empathy and care.
Sarah and her family on a recent skiing trip—Member since 2021
Explore personalized dietary and longevity strategies to support health and wellness.
Discover the underlying biological pathways and triggers of your health and longevity to better understand your condition.
Learn MoreExplore personalized dietary and longevity strategies to support health and wellness.
Learn MoreLearn of evidence-based supplements & herbal remedies that can complement your comprehensive care.
Learn MoreNavigate your treatment options with insights into medications and professional healthcare approaches.
Learn MoreUncover the impact of lifestyle changes and mindset shifts in managing symptoms & improving quality of life.
Learn MoreHere’s Everything You Need to Know About Inflammatory Bowel Disease
<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 26</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>IBD is a lifetime condition but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Living with a chronic gastrointestinal condition like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis affects far more than just your gut health.
Read More<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 26</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>What is the cure for inflammatory bowel disease? A well-rounded treatment plan for IBD may include IBD medications, IBD diets, supplements, lifestyle changes, mindset, surgical interventions and more.
Read More<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 25</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>If you only read one post about IBD, this should be it. Let's dive into the biology of IBD and gain a deeper understanding of what drives this mysterious, immune-mediated condition.
Read More<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 26</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>IBD is a lifetime condition but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Living with a chronic gastrointestinal condition like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis affects far more than just your gut health.
Read More<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 26</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>What is the cure for inflammatory bowel disease? A well-rounded treatment plan for IBD may include IBD medications, IBD diets, supplements, lifestyle changes, mindset, surgical interventions and more.
Read More<span class="span-reading-time rt-reading-time" style="display: block;"><span class="rt-label rt-prefix"></span> <span class="rt-time"> 25</span> <span class="rt-label rt-postfix">min read</span></span>If you only read one post about IBD, this should be it. Let's dive into the biology of IBD and gain a deeper understanding of what drives this mysterious, immune-mediated condition.
Read MoreWe know you have many options to choose from when seeking support on your journey to remission from IBD. With personalized, evidence-based comprehensive support, Systema IBD is the right fit for…
Those who are newly diagnosed with IBD and don’t know where to begin
Parents of a child with IBD who are looking for lifelong support and resources
Those who have been struggling with IBD for some time and feel out of options
Those who are in remission but want to achieve new health goals and optimize their IBD protocol
IBDers who had an ostomy and are seeking support and resources to help thrive
Those who are tired of “quick fixes” and “cure-alls” and are ready for a personal, lifetime Remission Master Plan
During your admissions call and strategy session, we’ll work one-on-one to comprehensively address your IBD by:
Respectfully listening and honoring your unique IBD story and working together to identify what has worked and what has not
Providing an inside look at our dynamic curricula, loving community, and our newest highlighted findings in the IBD literature
Instilling newfound hope, inspiration, and clarity on your strategic IBD plan and your next steps on the road to remission
IMPORTANT: after submitting the booking form you will be redirected to a survey page. The survey is mandatory. Any appointment without a completed survey will be canceled.
IMPORTANT: after submitting the booking form you will be redirected to a survey page. The survey is mandatory. Any appointment without a completed survey will be canceled.
In 2024, Systema IBD launched a non-profit arm called Systema IBD Fund. Together, we are expanding access to life-changing IBD interventions worldwide and ensuring that no IBDer ever falls through the cracks of the healthcare system.
We offer several program options to meet your needs:
All programs include access to our comprehensive curriculum that’s continuously updated with the latest scientific research, and to our vibrant community. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic health condition or seeking to optimize your health, we’re here to support your journey.
We offer several program options to meet your needs:
All programs include access to our comprehensive curriculum that’s continuously updated with the latest scientific research, and to our vibrant community. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic health condition or seeking to optimize your health, we’re here to support your journey.
Systema Core is our foundational monthly membership program that provides:
Systema IBD is our specialized year-long program that includes:
Systema 1-on-1 is our three-month intensive coaching program featuring:
Systema works across four main health domains:
We also serve healthy individuals looking to optimize their wellbeing and prevent future health challenges.
Conditions including and similar to the following are currently outside of scope of Systema Core:
*Many other conditions not explicitly mentioned may also be out of scope for Systema.
**Being diagnosed with one of these conditions does not disqualify you from becoming a member. It just means Systema Core is not currently designed to help you navigate these particular conditions. However, improving your health in general may serve as a foundation and, in many cases, members with these conditions may notice a positive impact.
While the curriculum of Systema Core is not specifically designed for these conditions, by following the Systema Core health protocols, members may find improvements in symptoms from the following conditions:
Systema may be beneficial to the health of most individuals, regardless of their medical status. However, our program’s efficacy is particularly pronounced for conditions significantly affected by environmental factors, which show a more substantial response to lifestyle adjustments. Nevertheless, various components of our program, such as the Health Master Plan (HMP), have universal applicability across a broad spectrum of health issues. In the next slides, we provide an evaluation of the conditions that are currently most amenable to our program.
Systema works across four main health domains:
We also serve healthy individuals looking to optimize their wellbeing and prevent future health challenges.
Conditions including and similar to the following are currently outside of scope of Systema Core:
*Many other conditions not explicitly mentioned may also be out of scope for Systema.
**Being diagnosed with one of these conditions does not disqualify you from becoming a member. It just means Systema Core is not currently designed to help you navigate these particular conditions. However, improving your health in general may serve as a foundation and, in many cases, members with these conditions may notice a positive impact.
While the curriculum of Systema Core is not specifically designed for these conditions, by following the Systema Core health protocols, members may find improvements in symptoms from the following conditions:
Systema may be beneficial to the health of most individuals, regardless of their medical status. However, our program’s efficacy is particularly pronounced for conditions significantly affected by environmental factors, which show a more substantial response to lifestyle adjustments. Nevertheless, various components of our program, such as the Health Master Plan (HMP), have universal applicability across a broad spectrum of health issues. In the next slides, we provide an evaluation of the conditions that are currently most amenable to our program.
Yes! Systema serves ages 13 and up. For younger members, we require parent or guardian involvement until the member reaches adulthood. This approach ensures proper support while developing crucial self-advocacy skills and health management strategies that will serve them throughout their lives.
Yes! Systema serves ages 13 and up. For younger members, we require parent or guardian involvement until the member reaches adulthood. This approach ensures proper support while developing crucial self-advocacy skills and health management strategies that will serve them throughout their lives.
Systema’s unique approach combines:
You’re likely a good fit if you:
Members gain access to:
Many members find us when they feel they’ve exhausted other options. Our systems-based approach often reveals new perspectives and possibilities you might not have considered. Through our comprehensive frameworks, expert guidance, and supportive community, we help you identify and address root causes while developing sustainable protocols for long-term health.
Systema’s unique approach combines:
You’re likely a good fit if you:
Members gain access to:
We offer several program options to meet your needs:
All programs include access to our comprehensive curriculum that’s continuously updated with the latest scientific research, and to our vibrant community. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic health condition or seeking to optimize your health, we’re here to support your journey.
We offer several program options to meet your needs:
All programs include access to our comprehensive curriculum that’s continuously updated with the latest scientific research, and to our vibrant community. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic health condition or seeking to optimize your health, we’re here to support your journey.
Systema Core is our foundational monthly membership program that provides:
Systema IBD is our specialized year-long program that includes:
Systema 1-on-1 is our three-month intensive coaching program featuring:
Systema works across four main health domains:
We also serve healthy individuals looking to optimize their wellbeing and prevent future health challenges.
Conditions including and similar to the following are currently outside of scope of Systema Core:
*Many other conditions not explicitly mentioned may also be out of scope for Systema.
**Being diagnosed with one of these conditions does not disqualify you from becoming a member. It just means Systema Core is not currently designed to help you navigate these particular conditions. However, improving your health in general may serve as a foundation and, in many cases, members with these conditions may notice a positive impact.
While the curriculum of Systema Core is not specifically designed for these conditions, by following the Systema Core health protocols, members may find improvements in symptoms from the following conditions:
Systema may be beneficial to the health of most individuals, regardless of their medical status. However, our program’s efficacy is particularly pronounced for conditions significantly affected by environmental factors, which show a more substantial response to lifestyle adjustments. Nevertheless, various components of our program, such as the Health Master Plan (HMP), have universal applicability across a broad spectrum of health issues. In the next slides, we provide an evaluation of the conditions that are currently most amenable to our program.
Systema works across four main health domains:
We also serve healthy individuals looking to optimize their wellbeing and prevent future health challenges.
Conditions including and similar to the following are currently outside of scope of Systema Core:
*Many other conditions not explicitly mentioned may also be out of scope for Systema.
**Being diagnosed with one of these conditions does not disqualify you from becoming a member. It just means Systema Core is not currently designed to help you navigate these particular conditions. However, improving your health in general may serve as a foundation and, in many cases, members with these conditions may notice a positive impact.
While the curriculum of Systema Core is not specifically designed for these conditions, by following the Systema Core health protocols, members may find improvements in symptoms from the following conditions:
Systema may be beneficial to the health of most individuals, regardless of their medical status. However, our program’s efficacy is particularly pronounced for conditions significantly affected by environmental factors, which show a more substantial response to lifestyle adjustments. Nevertheless, various components of our program, such as the Health Master Plan (HMP), have universal applicability across a broad spectrum of health issues. In the next slides, we provide an evaluation of the conditions that are currently most amenable to our program.
Yes! Systema serves ages 13 and up. For younger members, we require parent or guardian involvement until the member reaches adulthood. This approach ensures proper support while developing crucial self-advocacy skills and health management strategies that will serve them throughout their lives.
Yes! Systema serves ages 13 and up. For younger members, we require parent or guardian involvement until the member reaches adulthood. This approach ensures proper support while developing crucial self-advocacy skills and health management strategies that will serve them throughout their lives.
Systema’s unique approach combines:
You’re likely a good fit if you:
Members gain access to:
Many members find us when they feel they’ve exhausted other options. Our systems-based approach often reveals new perspectives and possibilities you might not have considered. Through our comprehensive frameworks, expert guidance, and supportive community, we help you identify and address root causes while developing sustainable protocols for long-term health.
Systema’s unique approach combines:
You’re likely a good fit if you:
Members gain access to:
Systema IBD and Andrew have been instrumental in my battle with severe Crohn's Disease. Before joining, I faced hospitalizations and overwhelming symptoms, all while being diagnosed during the 2020 pandemic. This program offered not only vital education that is science-based, but also a supportive and engaging community. With their guidance, I gained control over my health and now live a fulfilling life in remission. In essence, Systema IBD saved my life, and I'm deeply thankful for their support.
I joined Systema during one of my most difficult times- I was 6 months pregnant and just diagnosed with UC. I felt completely overwhelmed and was looking for anything that offered me a “cure” or way out of this diagnosis. After speaking with Andrew, I learned that while there is no “way out” of this diagnosis, there is education and empowerment. With Andrew and the Systema community, I found an incredible amount of support, care, and connection with others navigating the same waters as I. I am so grateful for them during times of flare and times of remission and feel that no matter where I am on my healing journey, Systema is there alongside me and cheering me on.
By the time I joined Systema I was living with Crohn’s disease for 18 years and acquired many more diagnoses and symptoms along the way. My life was absolutely miserable, I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and living with constant pain and debilitating symptoms, despite my implementation of diets, medications, and lifestyle protocols. I had lost hope and resigned myself to a life of suffering, all of my dreams were put aside. Through Systema’s principles I adopted the mindset necessary to build the optimal protocol for me, one I feel confident in and that my healthcare team has approved. science-backed curriculum, and the supportive and compassionate community, I achieved Crohn’s remission, the chronic pain and fatigue disappeared, my skin is healing, and I am building a life in alignment with my dreams. Saying yes to this program and I am thriving with more energy and strength than I’ve ever experienced before. Those hopeless days are gone and I am comforted knowing I have a supportive community to come back to whenever I need.
As I think about 2 years ago when I was experiencing my last flare, I was so sick and full of fear. Desperate to find answers and find a solution. Everything I read was contradictory. I was scared. Then I found you and I had hope for the first time. Your compassion, extensive knowledge, remission program ideas, and the ability to simplify it for someone like me took my fear away. I could breathe again and get my life back. I learned so much about myself and this disease. What you do made a huge difference in my life. I am truly grateful for you and all you do. I am no longer afraid of ulcerative colitis and am so thrilled to be in remission and that I have a place to, (for accurate information and experiences) when I have any questions or concerns. This is truly invaluable. Thank you isn’t big enough.
I have been lucky enough to know Andrew Kornfield for many years, and I love being a member of Systema IBD. I will admit at first that it was a leap of faith, but over time, I have found Systema IBD to be one of the most excellent tools I have in managing my Crohn's and other health areas in my life. I already have an excellent medical support team of doctors, but Systema IBD is still critical for my day-to-day health management. Every time I complete a group meeting with Systema IBD, I walk away more informed and clear-minded about my health situation and the steps I must take to live my best life, even when I have to cope with the challenging aspect of dealing with this disease.
I have been lucky enough to know Andrew Kornfield for many years, and I love being a member of Systema IBD. I will admit at first that it was a leap of faith, but over time, I have found Systema IBD to be one of the most excellent tools I have in managing my Crohn’s and other health areas in my life. I already have an excellent medical support team of doctors, but Systema IBD is still critical for my day-to-day health management. Every time I complete a group meeting with Systema IBD, I walk away more informed and clear-minded about my health situation and the steps I must take to live my best life, even when I have to cope with the challenging aspect of dealing with this disease.
Meet with an Admissions Advisor Today
Uncover the impact of lifestyle changes and mindset shifts in managing symptoms & improving quality of life.
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
11 min readThrough its interactions with the microbiome and gut-brain axis, the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel pathway for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
7 min readAlmost all women and females will use some form of contraception in their lifetime. Do hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease?
Navigate your treatment options with insights into medications and professional healthcare approaches.
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
11 min readThrough its interactions with the microbiome and gut-brain axis, the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel pathway for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
7 min readAlmost all women and females will use some form of contraception in their lifetime. Do hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease?
Learn of evidence-based supplements & herbal remedies that can complement your comprehensive care.
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
11 min readThrough its interactions with the microbiome and gut-brain axis, the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel pathway for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
7 min readAlmost all women and females will use some form of contraception in their lifetime. Do hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease?
Explore personalized dietary and longevity strategies to support health and wellness.
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
11 min readThrough its interactions with the microbiome and gut-brain axis, the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel pathway for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
7 min readAlmost all women and females will use some form of contraception in their lifetime. Do hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease?
Discover the underlying biological pathways and triggers of your health and longevity to better understand your condition.
26 min readFasting and intermittent fasting have gained popularity around the world for numerous health benefits—but can fasting be a new treatment for symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?
11 min readThrough its interactions with the microbiome and gut-brain axis, the endocannabinoid system may offer a novel pathway for managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
7 min readAlmost all women and females will use some form of contraception in their lifetime. Do hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease?