Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. Since the illness involves the digestive system, diet can play a major role the prevention and management of symptoms, such as gas, abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. The Mayo Clinic suggests a nutrient-rich, low-fat diet based on whole foods and limited in foods that trigger symptoms. For best results, seek specified guidance from a qualified professional.
Function
A diet for ulcerative colitis aims to prevent or reduce symptoms, such as diarrhea, pain or difficulty passing stool, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fever, loss of appetite and fatigue. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, diet and nutrition, in addition to medical treatments, can help repress the inflammatory process central to ulcerative colitis. A healthy diet can also reduce risk for complications, such as malnutrition and unintentional weight loss.
Basic Guidelines
Since foods affect people with ulcerative colitis differently, avoid foods that seem to trigger or exacerbate your symptoms. If unsure what foods pose problems, stick to a low-fat diet, limited in common trigger foods. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests eating small amounts throughout each day, drinking plenty of water and avoiding or limiting caffeine and alcohol. If you have difficulty meeting your nutritional needs, discuss the potential need for supplements with your doctor.
Optimum Foods
A variety of healthy foods suit an ulcerative colitis diet. De Lamar Gibbons, author of "The Self-Help Way to Treat Colitis and Other IBS Conditions" suggests rice and corn-based cereals and white bread as ideal carbohydrate options if you have difficulty digesting high-fiber foods. Otherwise, select whole grains and starchy vegetables, such as potatoes and squash. High-quality protein sources, such as lean meats, poultry, fish and low-fat dairy products are important for physical strength and tissue repair. Fruits and vegetables provide dense amounts of nutrients, including disease-fighting antioxidants. Consume modest amounts of healthy fat sources, such as plant-based oils, avocado and peanut butter for enhanced nutrient-absorption, satiation and energy.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods may worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests avoiding spicy foods and high-fat foods, such as fatty red meat, processed meats, deep-fried foods, butter and margarine. If you have difficulty digesting fiber, limit or avoid bran, beans, lentils, split peas, nuts, seeds, and popcorn. If dairy products cause gas, bloating or indigestion, replace dairy products with non-dairy or soy-based equivalents or other sources of lean protein. Opt for fresh food over fast food and processed snack foods.
Suggestions
When your symptoms, such as diarrhea, are inactive, aim for a diet rich in fiber and nutrients. If high-fiber foods trigger bloating, pain or diarrhea, the Mayo Clinic suggests cooked fruits and vegetables in place of raw. To determine which foods are problematic, keeping a food diary that tracks food intake, symptoms and other observations, may prove useful. Regular exercise, vitamin supplementation when necessary and regular interaction with your doctor and/or dietitian can also help ensure your wellness and dietary treatment success.
References
- "The Self-Help Way to Treat Colitis and Other IBS Conditions"; De Lamar Gibbons; 2001
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis Facts and Treatment
