Colitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the colon and rectum. Many types of colitis exist and may affect other areas of the intestine. Colitis causes abdominal discomfort and diarrhea; symptoms may be severe during colitis flare-ups. While diet does not cause colitis, states the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, CCFA, certain foods may aggravate colitis symptoms. Paying attention to what you eat and drink may help reduce symptoms, states the CCFA.
Gas-Causing Foods
Foods that cause intestinal gas may increase abdominal pain, bloating or discomfort. Gas-causing foods include broccoli, beans, cabbage, raw fruit juices, and spicy foods, states MayoClinic.com. Caffeine, carbonated drinks like soda and alcohol may also increase intestinal gas.
Dairy Products
Dairy products may increase diarrhea during a colitis flare-up, especially if you are also lactose intolerant, warns MayoClinic.com. Some people are unable to digest the sugars found in dairy products due to an enzyme deficiency in the small intestine, states the CCFA. Swap dairy products for non-lactose products or consider taking lactose supplements to help ease symptoms from dairy products, the CCFA suggests.
High Fiber Foods
High fiber foods may cause abdominal cramping and discomfort, states the CCFA, especially if the bowel has narrowed due to colitis. High fiber foods to avoid include seeds, nuts, corn and popcorn. These foods may cause contractions in the large intestine, resulting in, or worsening, diarrhea.
Other Foods
Not every person with colitis will react to the same foods. Keeping a food diary may be helpful in determining which foods increase your colitis symptoms and which do not affect symptoms at all. A food diary will also assist you in determining if your diet is supplying ad adequate supply of nutrients and calories, states the CCFA. You may be at risk for malnutrition or dehydration with colitis as symptoms may cause appetite suppression. The nutrients from food may not be as readily absorbed with colitis, as well. Write down your daily food and fluid intake and any colitis symptoms you experience. Review your food diary with your dietitian for help in pinpointing troublesome foods and to gain help in formulating a nutritious diet plan for your condition.
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