Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. The disease causes ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. According to the Mayo Clinic, it occurs through continuous stretches of your colon unlike the other IBD, Crohn's disease, which occurs in patches anywhere in the digestive tract and often spreads deep into the layers of affected tissues. Symptoms of colitis include abdominal pain and diarrhea. It is a disease that can cause severe complications and be life-threatening. There is no cure for colitis but diet may allow for management of the disease.
Meet with Health Care Professionals
Step 1
Contact your physician to discuss your condition. Ask if there are any restrictions prior to being tested for colitis. Schedule a test with a gastroenterologist.
Step 2
Diagnosis of colitis is not simple. Several tests including blood tests, a stool sample and a colonoscopy may be required to determine if a person has colitis. Upon confirmation of the disease, request an appointment with a registered dietitian.
Step 3
Meet with a registered dietitian to discuss dietary options that may help alleviate symptoms of colitis. The Mayo Clinic states that certain foods may aggravate symptoms especially during the inflammation period.
Make Changes in Diet
Step 1
Reduce intake of dairy. Lactose containing foods such as milk, cheese and yogurt often produce gas, bloating and diarrhea in persons with lactose intolerance. Choose lactose free products such as soy, rice or almond milk and include foods high in calcium such as spinach or fortified orange juice.
Step 2
Eat several small meals throughout the day. This allows the body to digest food easier than consuming three large meals.
Step 3
Monitor fiber intake. Some people with colitis have a difficult time eating high fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Keep a food diary and note which foods aggravate symptoms of colitis. Try cooking raw vegetables and fruits to ease digestion.
Step 4
Drink adequate amounts of fluids. Water is the best option. Avoid carbonated beverages, alcohol and caffeine which may exacerbate symptoms.
Step 5
Limit intake of foods that cause gas or discomfort such as broccoli, beans and cabbage. Use your food diary to note which foods lead to discomfort.
Tips and Warnings
- Work closely with your physician and registered dietitian to monitor your colitis. Ask if a multivitamin may help provide nutrients and vitamins that may be lacking from your diet.
- According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, treatment for colitis depends on the severity of the disease. Some people may require drug therapy, hospitalization or surgery to treat the disease. Always contact a physician prior to making any dietary changes.
