Ulcerative colitis is a condition that causes ulcers in the lining of the rectum and colon. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcers form when inflammation has destroyed the cells that line the colon. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and treatment options depend on the severity of the disease. Medications and surgery may be required along with dietary changes. After you are diagnosed, a physician or registered dietitian can recommend food for ulcerative colitis suffers. Following this diet may help control your symptoms.
Lactose-Free Products
Each case of ulcerative colitis is different, so it may take some trial and error to determine which foods trigger your symptoms. There is no known cure for the condition, so the goal of treatment is to control symptoms. This may include cutting lactose from your diet and consuming lactose-free products. Lactose sugar may cause an upset stomach in some patients, warns the National Institute of Health. Many dairy products, such as milk, cheese, ice cream and yogurt, are available in lactose-free versions.
Fish or Flaxseed Oils
Food does not cause or cure ulcerative colitis, however, making changes to your diet can help manage the condition. Fish or flaxseed oil may help to reduce the inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis, states the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. While much more research is needed, it appears that fatty acids may help the mucosa, or the lining of the colon, heal itself. However, the location of the ulcers also play a role in what dietary changes work, and there is no one-size-fits-all plan.
Foods with Probiotics
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, consuming foods that contain probiotics or healthy bacteria may help to calm symptoms in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis. For those with sensitivities to dairy products, which often contain probiotics, soy beverages and other soy based foods are an alternative. Look for products that list live and active cultures, or that are are enriched with additional healthy bacteria. However, be wary of unsubstantiated claims of cures or health benefits.
High Protein Foods
Your body may be unable to properly digest food if you have ulcerative colitis, so it is important to eat a well balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Eating smaller meals and keeping a food diary can help to identify problem foods. Eat foods that are high in protein to help meet your daily nutritional needs. Many vegetables and meats are high in protein. Vegetables can be hard to digest and should be cooked first. Meats can be high in fat, so look for lean options, and grill or broil meat rather than frying.
