Colitis, also known as ulcerative colitis, belongs to a family of diseases that doctors call inflammatory bowel disease. It causes inflammation and sores to form along the lining of the rectum and colon, resulting in symptoms such as diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, rectal bleeding and weight loss, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. While sensitivity to certain foods is not the cause, it may trigger symptoms in some people. For this reason, diet modification may help if you suffer from this condition.
Step 1
Reduce or eliminate dairy products. Some people with ulcerative colitis may be lactose intolerant, meaning they are unable to digest the sugar in dairy products, as MayoClinic.com explains. If you have this problem, it can aggravate the diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain that colitis causes. Reducing or eliminating dairy products can alleviate this problem.
Step 2
Limit your intake of gas-producing foods. Registered dietitian Gloria Tsang, of HealthCastle.com, recommends limiting your intake of foods that cause gas. These include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts. MayoClinic.com agrees, adding that alcohol, carbonated beverages, caffeine and raw fruit juices may also be problematic.
Step 3
Eat fiber-rich foods with caution. A diet rich in fiber is usually recommended, but if you have colitis, it can worsen your gas, diarrhea and pain, as MayoClinic.com explains. The first step to take is to check with your doctor before adding large quantities of fiber to your diet. You can also experiment with various types of fiber sources, such as raw fruits and vegetables. Eliminate those that aggravate your symptoms. MayoClinic.com also recommends steaming, baking or stewing these foods rather them eating them raw.
Step 4
Increase your fluid intake. Water is the best choice, as it does not contain anything that can harm or aggravate the intestines. MayoClinic.com warns you to stay away from alcohol and beverages containing caffeine, as they can increase diarrhea, while carbonated beverages can increase any gas you experience.
Step 5
Speak to a dietitian. Under extreme circumstances, such as when you begin to lose weight or when your diet becomes too limited, speak to a registered dietitian for advice. She can guide you and advise you based on your personal situation.
