Ulcerative colitis is a disorder characterized by inflammation of the inner lining of the colon, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." In some cases, this inflammation produces diverticula, which are pouches that form along the inner colon walls. This condition can cause symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, diarrhea and hard stools. Diet is one of the most common means of regulating the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Check with your doctor before altering your diet to treat ulcerative colitis.
Step 1
Increase your intake of dietary fiber by consuming whole-grain breads and pastas, flax seeds, raw vegetables and legumes. Dietary fiber may help move waste through the intestines more easily, which may help prevent hard stools and other symptoms of ulcerative colitis, according to the Balches. It may also help prevent waste from collecting in diverticula, which may prevent infection.
Step 2
Consume soy milk and soy cheese instead of dairy products. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dairy products may worsen diarrhea, particularly if you have ulcerative colitis.
Step 3
Eat vegetables that contain vitamin K, such as spinach, kale and alfalfa. According to the Balches, vitamin K deficiencies are linked to ulcerative colitis. This vitamin may also help reduce intestinal bleeding associated with this condition.
Step 4
Consume foods containing antioxidant vitamins, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center. These foods include apples, oranges, pears, blueberries, strawberries and kiwifruit. Antioxidants may prevent additional damage to the lining of the colon, and may help reduce inflammation.
Step 5
Replace fatty meats, such as hamburger, sausage and bacon, with low-fat protein sources, such as tofu and beans. According to the Balches, saturated fats may aggravate bloating, diarrhea and other ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Divide your daily calorie intake into four or five meals per day, rather than two or three meals. Smaller meals may help you avoid ulcerative colitis symptoms. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and caffeine, which can irritate the lining of the colon and increase inflammation.
Things You'll Need
- Fiber-rich foods
- Soy products
- Spinach
- Kale
- Alfalfa
- Antioxidant-rich foods
- Lean proteins
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis
