The National Institutes of Health characterizes colitis as a chronic inflammation of the colon. One of the more common forms of colitis is ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease in which a section of the lower digestive tract suffers swelling and eventually ulcerates along the intestinal walls. Certain dietary changes can sometimes help improve the symptoms of this digestive condition during a flare-up.
Fiber
Limiting your intake of foods high in fiber can help minimize bloating, gas, diarrhea and cramping associated with a colitis flare-up, according to the National Institutes of Health. Most fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grains are all relatively high in fiber. But instead of eliminating these foods entirely from your diet, steam or bake them to make them easier for your body to digest.
Dairy
Sometimes, people suffering from colitis have an intolerance to lactose, a milk sugar found in dairy products. During a flare-up, you may need to avoid milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream and even butter to improve uncomfortable symptoms. Look for alternative ways to get calcium into your diet, such as broccoli, artichokes, kale, mustard greens, turnip greens, raisins, figs, papaya, sesame seeds, salmon and sardines.
High-Fat Foods
Fried foods are often problematic for people suffering from ulcerative colitis, explains the National Institutes of Health. The same goes for naturally high-fat foods. Soups, cured meats, frozen entrees, chips, cookies, crackers and other snack foods are often high in fat. While dealing with a flare-up, take note of the fat content listed on package labels, especially saturated fat and trans-fatty acids.
Fluids
Another essential part of your diet during a colitis flare-up is your intake of fluids, notes the Mayo Clinic. Water is by far the best option to increase your fluid intake, but you may also benefit from some fruit or vegetable juices. However, highly carbonated, caffeinated or alcoholic beverages could pose a problem, so avoid soda, coffee, tea, beer, wine and spirits.
Meal Size
You can also reduce symptoms associated with a flare-up by reducing the size of your meals, asserts the Mayo Clinic. Small meals reduce the amount of food in your stomach, which decreases the amount of waste passing through your large intestines. This puts less pressure on your intestinal walls, lessening the potential for gas and cramping. Smaller meals don't necessarily mean you need to go hungry. While reducing the size of your plates, increase the frequency of eating. Instead of three meals, try to eat five to six times throughout the day.
