The Tougher Issues For some people with IBD, the road to wellness can be filled with obstacles. Most are related to disease activity.
Osteoblasts are cells active in bone formation, filling in pits of resorption.
Research is revealing that cytokines, chemicals released by the immune system, are active in this process. In some people with IBD, these cytokines may malfunction, causing bone loss. Alternate day dosing does not protect bone. Doctors should seek alternatives to steroid therapy, but if there is no other option, patients on steroids should be monitored closely for bone loss. Weight-bearing exercise, and eliminating smoking and excessive alcohol are important to preventing bone loss as well.