Ulcerative colitis is a disease that creates chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. It is an inflammatory bowel disease that can be debilitating and lead to complications, according to the Mayo Clinic. Colitis affects the colon and the rectum. There is no evidence that dietary history causes colitis. The disease has no cure, but dietary changes may lessen symptoms and encourage healing.
Step 1
Consult a registered dietitian. She will ask you how your symptoms arise and what aggravates or lessens them. Have a list of questions that will help you and your dietitian achieve the most from the appointment.
Step 2
Limit dairy products. Symptoms such as diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain may subside when you reduce your dairy consumption. Lactose intolerance may be an issue, in which case the dietitian can work with you to alter your diet.
Step 3
Stay away from other foods that aggravate your symptoms. Cabbage, broccoli, beans, popcorn, caffeine, carbonated beverages and alcohol are thought to be gas-producing foods and may cause discomfort.
Step 4
Foods high in fiber tend to worsen the symptoms of colitis. Ask your dietitian about fiber and work with her to monitor the effects.
Step 5
Discuss the need for a daily multivitamin with your dietitian. Colitis can inhibit the body’s ability to absorb essential minerals and vitamins.
Tips and Warnings
- The Mayo Clinic says that an autoimmune reaction may trigger ulcerative colitis. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America says there is no single diet or eating plan that will do the trick for everyone with IBD. Diet plans must be individualized.
