Colitis, commonly referred to as ulcerative colitis, or UC, is a chronic type of inflammatory bowel disease that typically affects the colon, including the anus and rectum, and invades the inner lining of the bowel tissue. The website CCFC explains that one of the most common symptoms of UC is a false urge to have a bowel movement; the false urgency is due to inflammation of the bowel. Other symptoms include severe and bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramps, nausea and vomiting, a decrease in appetite, weight loss, mild fever, anemia and a loss of bodily fluids. If you suspect that you have colitis consult with your physician, he or she may recommend prescription medication, and in certain severe cases even surgery.
Hydration
The website Healthcastle recommends first and foremost that you drink enough water, consuming a minimum of eight glasses of water a day, in order to keep your body hydrated and reduce the likelihood for constipation, a common symptom in colitis.
Fiber
Healthcastle advocates a high fiber diet when you are not experiencing a flare up. During a flare up limit fiber to give your colon a chance to rest and repair. Healthcastle cautions that you should cook or steam your vegetables, stating that it makes it easier on your bowels that consuming raw.
Olive Oil
Oleic acid, found in olive oil, seems to prevent the development of UC by blocking certain aggravating chemicals in the bowel that would otherwise cause inflammation. The Colitis Recovery website recommends consuming 2 to 3 tbsp. of olive oil a day as a therapeutic dose. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to ensure you are receiving all of the beneficial nutrients that olive oil has to offer. Living Foods states that a high quality olive oil contains a free oleic acid acidity level of no more than 1 percent.
Bananas
According to the website Home-remedies-for-you, consume up to two bananas daily. It explains that they are good for colitis sufferers because they are bland, smooth, easy to digest, act as a gentle laxative, and both relieve the acute symptoms and help to promote the healing of colitis.
Additional Dietary Tips
Health Castle recommends consuming small, frequent meals that include lean meat, fish, and eggs.
