Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon and rectum, according to GICare.com. Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and sores on the lining of the colon and rectum. Patients with ulcerative colitis that is active experience severe abdominal pain and frequent diarrhea. There is no known cure for ulcerative colitis, but the disease can be managed using proper diet.
High-protein Foods
Patients with ulcerative colitis should eat foods rich in protein, according to GICare.com. Frequent diarrhea experienced by ulcerative colitis patients can lead to loss of nutrients and muscle wasting. Adding extra high-protein foods to the diet prevents protein-related malnutrition. Examples of foods high in protein include red meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, beans, peas, tofu and soy beans. Patients allergic to dairy products may experience increased diarrhea, abdominal bloating and gas pains. Such patients should avoid dairy products or take enzyme products such as Lactaid.
High-calorie Foods
Patients with ulcerative colitis experience frequent loose stools that can lead to malabsorption and malnutrition. Patients with ulcerative colitis should eat food high in calories to gain extra energy, according to MayoClinic.com. Frequent diarrhea can weaken patients, and foods high in calories provide extra energy to patients. Examples of foods high in calories include pasta, white rice, corn, white bread, oatmeal, whole milk, milk shakes and cereal.
Low-fiber Foods
Patients with ulcerative colitis should eat low-fiber foods, according to GICare.com. High-fiber foods are discouraged because they may worsen diarrhea in patients with ulcerative colitis. High-fiber foods may also cause increased abdominal and gas pains. Because ulcerative colitis can interfere with absorption of nutrients due to diet limitation, vitamin and mineral supplements containing nutrients found in high-fiber foods may be prescribed. Patients should also increase water intake and avoid alcohol and beverages that contain coffee. Caffeine stimulates the intestines and may make diarrhea worse.
