When your colon or other parts of your small or large intestines are inflamed, digestion and absorption can be interrupted. Although no studies show that diet causes inflammatory bowel disorders, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), certain foods can lead to symptom aggravation. Your inflammatory triggers are unique; no specific diet is right for everyone. Talk to your physician about your diet, and discuss the types of foods you should avoid.
Colon Inflammation
Your colon is a muscular tube three to five feet long that extracts water and salts, works with bacteria and moves processed food out of the body. Whereas Crohn's disease affects the small intestine's ability to digest, ulcerative colitis is an inflammation of the colon only; the small intestine still functions normally in most cases. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of the colon and rectum and can cause abdominal pain and severe diarrhea. There are several different types of ulcerative colitis, which vary in area and symptom severity.
Food Diary
Because no specific diet is recommended for inflammatory bowel diseases, you will need to learn which foods aggravate your particular condition. Everyone is different, so foods that aggravate your condition may not bother someone else. Begin to keep a diary of all the foods and beverages you consume and how you feel after eating them. Pay attention to your energy levels, bowel movements and pain concerns, to discover patterns and food types that aggravate your condition. CCFA states that the best way for you to cut out inflammatory foods is to know which foods trigger your symptoms.
Pro-Inflammatory Foods
Although these foods may not elicit a gut reaction, they are generally thought of as more inflammatory than other food options. Highly processed foods can lead to more inflammation; junk food snacks with trans fats and saturated fats are typically not healthy options and often contain chemicals and preservatives that can be irritating. Avoid cuts of fatty meat and high-fat dairy options. These contain arachidonic acid, and although some arachidonic acid is not harmful, too much can increase inflammation. Instead, choose lean meats and low-fat diary products.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation. These are found in foods like cold water fish, walnuts, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds. Using olive oil instead of high-fat options like butter can also reduce inflammation. Diets high in fiber are thought to be anti-inflammatory; whole grains, leafy vegetables and fruits supply you with adequate fiber. Again, your body may react differently to certain foods, even those that are purported to help reduce inflammation. Use your food diary and talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about how to best receive adequate nutrition.
Benefits
Understanding your body and your condition can improve your quality of life. CCFA states that it is extremely important for inflammatory bowel disease sufferers to receive proper nutrients. With chronic disease, your body becomes stressed and depleted of stores of vitamins and minerals. Good nutrition can help your body heal itself; in contrast, poor nutrition can further damage your body and leave you more prone to other types of illnesses. Although it may take time and effort, keeping track of your specific food sensitivities and diligently consuming what you need can increase your health.
