Ulcerative colitis, UC, is an inflammatory condition that involves the lining of the colon, resulting in bleeding. The cause is unknown. Symptoms include blood diarrhea, lower abdominal cramps and anemia. The disease is characterized by periods of symptomatic flare-ups and remissions. If you have mild to moderate UC, you should eat a regular diet but limit intake of certain products, such as caffeine and dairy, which may make symptoms worse. Severe disease is usually treated with medication.
Fatty Foods
No single diet is approved for everyone with UC, but because the disease is associated with impairment in the absorption of nutrients, especially fat from the diet, foods high in fat, such as butter, margarine, creams, pork products and fried foods can all cause diarrhea and gas if absorption is not complete. These symptoms are more common in those with the disease who have had part of their small intestine removed.
Dairy Foods
Many people are unable to absorb the sugar, lactose, present in milk. Poor lactose digestion can lead to many of the same symptoms associated with UC, such as cramping, abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea and bloating that may worsen or be confused with the effects of UC. If you are concerned you may be lactose intolerant, eliminate milk products from your diet, or consider supplementing with the enzyme lactase.
Fibrous Foods
High-fiber foods, including nuts, seeds, corn, popcorn and Chinese vegetables can cause gas and abdominal cramping even if you do not have UC, and patients with the disease are more prone to these symptoms, due to the narrowing of the colon. Bulky, fiber-rich foods can therefore stimulate contractions in the bowels and aggravate symptoms. Steaming vegetables may make them easier to digest.
Fluid Intake
Ulcerative colitis is often characterized by diarrhea, and you should therefore pay careful attention to your fluid consumption. The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America recommends drinking ½ oz. of fluid per lb. of body weight, per day. Someone who weighs 150 lb. should consume at least 75 oz. of fluid daily, equivalent to nine to 10 glasses of water, preferably. Alcohol and caffeine can stimulate the intestines and worsen symptoms such as diarrhea, and carbonated liquids can produce gas, so limit intake of these beverages.
References
- "Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment"; Stephen J. McPhee; 2009
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: Diet and Nutrition
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis Treatment
- MayoClinic.com: Ulcerative Colitis: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
