Colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease characterized by sudden, unpredictable bouts of diarrhea and abdominal pain. No single cause of ulcerative colitis has been established, but it is believed to be a the result of the immune system mistakenly attacking the bowel. Certain foods have been associated with aggravating the symptoms of colitis.
Symptoms
In ulcerative colitis, the lining of the bowel is affected, causing inflammation. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramping and rectal bleeding. The abdominal pain is relieved after having a bowel movement. Modification of your diet can help control the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis.
Diet Modifications
Dietary modifications for patients with colitis are usually based upon the patient's tolerance and avoidance of irritating foods. Foods that are suspected of increasing the symptoms of colitis should be tried in small amounts to determine tolerance levels. Despite some patients' belief that foods affected their disease course, no reported dietary behavior has reduced the incidence of the illness.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Patients with ulcerative colitis are at a risk for malabsorption and malnutrition, and they are often deficient in vitamins A, C, D, E, K, and B12 due to malabsorption. Iron, magnesium, calcium and phosphate are also affected by malabsorption. When vitamin B12 is not adequately absorbed, you cannot adequately metabolize carbohydrates, proteins and fats, and the risk of malnutrition increases.
Dietary Recommendations
Foods high in fiber, fat and lactose may increase diarrhea and abdominal pain. The most common problem foods include seeds, nuts, raw fruits and vegetables and leafy greens. Additionally, products that contain caffeine and spicy foods can aggravate the symptoms. If you have colitis, you need an adequate intake of calories and nutrients. Protein from meats, fish, poultry and eggs are recommended. Fruits and vegetable cooked, without skins or seeds are generally well tolerated. Consuming adequate fluids is also important.
Dietary Supplements
During periods of excessive diarrhea, you may need dietary supplements, particularly vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and potassium. The overall nutritional recommendations for patients with colitis are individualized on the extent of the disease. To maintain good nutrition, do not eliminate from your diet without a fair trial.
References
- "RN"; Inflammatory bowel disease; J. Veronesi: May 2003
- "Nutrition and Diet Therapy"; F.A. Davis; 2011
- "Better Nutrition"; Nutritional Rx for Crohn's and Colitis; Figueras; May 2010
