Ischemic colitis is an inflammation or injury of the intestines caused by an inadequate supply of blood. Those with this condition may experience blood in the stool, diarrhea, lower back pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever. If you have a history of peripheral vascular disease, high blood pressure, COPD or CHF you are at increased risk of developing ischemic colitis. The condition can resolve quickly when the blood supply has been restored, but it can also lead to permanent damage if not treated quickly. You may suffer a chronic form of the condition when symptoms are triggered from other colon diseases and ulcers that affect the lining of the intestines. Symptoms can be alleviated through dietary changes, but always discuss them with your doctor.
Solid Foods
Initially, your physician may recommend a liquid diet, without any solid food, to give your colon a rest, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Depending upon the severity of the condition, you may be hospitalized and receive fluids through an intravenous line along with pain medications, until the condition begins to resolve.
Alcohol
Approximately 20 percent of the alcohol you drink is absorbed directly through the stomach lining, into the bloodstream. The remaining 80 percent passes into the intestinal tract and is absorbed through the small intestines, according to OregonCounseling.org. Alcohol increases acidity in the stomach, and can promote gastritis or stomach ulcers. It can also aggravate your intestinal ischemia through "blood-sludging," when the red cells will clump together causing some small vessels to clot and starve the tissue of oxygen. Long-term alcohol use or abuse can lead to anemia and lowered resistance to infection, both of which can increase the risk of negative effects of ischemic colitis.
Caffeine
Caffeine should be strictly avoided if you suffer from ischemic colitis or other inflammatory bowel conditions. According to Meri Rafetto, R.D., caffeine acts as a stimulant to the gastrointestinal tract, and can lead to loose stools or diarrhea. Caffiene will also increase stomach acidity and increase the speed at which the stomach empties into the small intestines. This results in contents that are highly acidic passing into the small intestines too quickly, which can lead to further injury of the intestinal tissue.
Gassy Foods
Gas producing foods can increase your symptoms and discomfort because of the increased pressure that builds in the intestines, according to HealthCastle.com. Foods that produce gas in the stomach and intestine usually come from the cabbage family of vegetables, and include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Dried peas, beans, lentils, peppers, carbonated drinks and onions can also produce gas in the intestinal tract.
