Ulcerative colitis is a type of digestive disease that belongs to a group of conditions referred to as inflammatory bowel diseases. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammation can cause various symptoms, including abdominal pain, gas and bloating. A proper diet regimen is an important part of keeping ulcerative colitis under control.
Fiber
Fiber can significantly exacerbate symptoms of ulcerative colitis. However, it's an important component of a healthy diet, so it's not good to eliminate it. Instead of removing fiber, MayoClinic.com recommends experimenting with different cooking methods. Steaming or boiling fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber instead of consuming them raw may help reduce symptoms.
Dairy Products
As with other digestive diseases, ulcerative colitis is often accompanied by lactose intolerance as well. Because of this, symptoms of ulcerative colitis, such as abdominal pain, gas and bloating, are often exacerbated by dairy products. Reducing or eliminating dairy products such as milk, yogurt, ice cream and cheese may help improve quality of life for those with ulcerative colitis.
Trigger Foods
People respond differently to certain foods, but some common trigger foods include beans, cabbage, broccoli, fruits, fruit juice, alcohol, caffeine and carbonated beverages, according to MayoClinic.com. A person with ulcerative colitis can keep a food diary in order to determine which foods cause symptoms.
Liquids
Because ulcerative colitis is often characterized by chronic diarrhea, it's important to increase fluid intake in order to avoid dehydration. The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America notes that people with ulcerative colitis also have an increased risk of developing kidney stones. Increased fluid intake can decrease this risk.
Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, ulcerative colitis can interfere with the proper absorption of various vitamins and minerals. In addition, certain important nutrients may be missing from the diet because of specific diet limitations. Because of this, it can help someone with ulcerative colitis to take a multivitamin supplement regularly. A dietitian or health care provider can help decide which supplement is best for the specific case.
