Gastroenterologists at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago are conducting a new study to see if mind/body techniques can help patients diagnosed with celiac disease adhere to such a strict diet. Celiac disease is a digestive condition where those afflicted must refrain from eating gluten, a protein present in grass grains such as wheat and barley, because it damages the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients. For most, following a gluten-free diet for can stop symptoms and improve intestinal healing, sometimes within months.

Because the condition and the treatment can be stressful, Dr. Ali Keshavarzian, vice chairman of medicine at Rush, will study complementary and alternative techniques to cope with symptoms. Volunteers will participate in one of two courses, although the content of the courses has not yet been publicized. What mind-body techniques will the participants likely engage in?

Mind-body techniques are approaches to healing that uses the power of thoughts and emotions to positively influence physical health. Ancient healing medicines, such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, have used the practices for many years. The Western World was introduced to mind-body techniques when psychiatrist George Solomon found that rheumatoid arthritis symptoms worsened when patients were depressed. In general, the techniques work by reducing stress hormones that are associated with unhealthy emotions that can lead to disruptions in body systems and organs, such as immunity.

Biofeedback is a technique in which people are trained to improve their health by learning to control certain internal bodily processes that normally occur involuntarily. The activities can be measured with electrodes and monitored by a healthcare practitioner. It is primarily used to treat chronic pain.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help people recognize and change dysfunctional thought patterns. People with celiac disease, for example, may be taught to view the gluten free diet as an opportunity to learn more about how to incorporate other grain products such as rice and soy flour into favorite recipes, instead of viewing themselves as a victim of their condition.

Relaxation techniques, such as autogenic training, can use visual imagery and body awareness to move a person into a deep state of relaxation. Additional techniques for relaxation include progressive muscle relaxation and meditation. Each method focuses on bringing relief from physical tension and bringing mindfulness to the practitioner. Meditation has been used successfully in another digestive condition — irritable bowel syndrome.

Hypnosis can be used to treat people with addictions, pain, anxiety disorders, and phobias. A person relaxes their body while their thoughts become more focused and attentive. Most hypnotists are licensed medical doctors, registered nurses, social workers, or family counselors that have received training in hypnotherapy from a group such as the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis or the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis.

Tai Chi or Yoga practices can help integrate self care techniques into medicine and health. Tai Chi, for example, has been found in a clinical study to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve general health perception and social functioning.