If you or someone you know have been affected by Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, you may have heard about a low-residue diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, a low-residue diet "limits the amount of fiber and other undigested material that passes through your large intestine." Keeping yourself informed about any new diets, remedies or medications is good way to help you manage either disease.
Defined
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are classed as irritable bowel diseases because they cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Ulcerative colitis usually affects one region of the GI tract such as the rectum or large intestine. It causes ulcers in the lining of the intestine that may result in bleeding. Crohn's disease can occur anywhere in the GI tract and can have healthy sections between affected parts of the colon. It causes deeper inflammation in the intestinal wall than ulcerative colitis. Both diseases usually cause abdominal pain, weight loss and diarrhea; rectal bleeding can also be present. At this time there is no known cure for either disease.
Treatments
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are generally treated in the same way, depending on the severity of the disease. The first line of treatment is drugs: anti-inflammatories that reduce inflammation and may cause periods of remission; steroids to combat flare-ups; and immune system suppressants. The latter two may bring side effects, such as a weakened immune system and weight gain. Surgery to remove the affected part of the colon is required for a large number of people who have either disease. Since none of the methods above cures the disease, many people look into alternative treatments.
Diet
Many people believe that diet causes or cures Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. In fact, diet can have an influence on the symptoms of the disease, but there are no studies to support a cure can come from a person's diet. If you suffer from either disease, the best thing to do is to find out what works for you. Diets should be created to fit your individual needs and symptoms.
Low-Residue Diets
Low-residue diets are recommended by some health care professionals during a flare-up of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Low-residue diets limit fiber and are more restrictive than a low-fiber diet. Low-residue diets limit any foods that cause undigested material in the intestines. Low-residue diets are only used for short durations because all of your nutrients cannot be obtained long-term.
Conclusion
A low-residue diet may be beneficial during a flare-up of your Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. There is no evidence to support the benefits of a long-term, low-residue diet. If you are going to start any new treatment or diet, please consult with your doctor first. A low-residue diet should always be supervised by a physician.
