Ulcerative colitis is a painful inflammatory bowel disease similar in nature to Chron's disease. It is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the colon and the subsequent formation of ulcers. According to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," these ulcers lead to bloody diarrhea, bloating, pain, gas and hardened or mucus-containing stools. The cause is currently unknown but Balch states that a proper diet is likely the most important factor in achieving and maintaining a remission of colitis.
Eliminate Digestive System Stressors
According to The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, an important first step for ulcerative colitis recovery is to eliminate of digestive system stressors. Common digestive system stressors include saturated and trans fats, caffeine, spicy foods, acidic fruit, chemically processed and refined foods, alcohol, nicotine and soda. Balch recommends keeping a daily record of what you eat and symptoms you experience to identify food allergies and sensitivities which may also be causing digestive distress. She states that many people with colitis get better when allergenic foods are removed from their diet.
Eat a Hypoallergenic Diet
CSNN recommends following a hypoallergenic diet. To follow a hypoallergenic diet you must eliminate the following foods: dairy, wheat, corn, gluten, eggs, sugar, yeast, soy, carrageenan-containing foods and red meat. Red meat is especially important to avoid because it contains arachidonic acid, which may increase colon inflammation.
Beware of Sulfur
According to Eric Yarnell, ND, in his article "Sulfur-Rich Foods and Ulcerative Colitis," in the 2010 "Northwest Naturopathic Urology," preliminary research suggests that sulfur may both promote and exacerbate ulcerative colitis. Avoiding high-sulfur foods is therefore also recommended and this includes cow's milk, cheese, eggs, meat, cruciferous vegetable, garlic, onions, horseradish and sulfite-preserved foods such as wine and dried fruit.
Stay Hydrated
With so many things to avoid, you may be wondering what you can eat. First and foremost, Balch recommends that you drink at least eight cups of water a day, and explains that water will help to flush out damaging particles that can otherwise get caught in the crevices of your colon. It will also help to prevent dehydration in cases of diarrhea.
Food Staples
Yarnell recommends eating fish, poultry and legumes as your main sources of protein because they are low in sulfur. Balch says that all fruits and vegetables are encouraged, with the exception of citrus fruit, onions and cruciferous vegetables.
Include Plenty of Fiber
CSNN recommends plenty of high-fiber foods and explains that fiber helps to reduce circulating toxins and it promotes regular elimination. Good sources of fiber include oat bran, brown rice, barley, lentils and other whole grains. CSNN warns however, that grains should be cooked well and fruits and vegetables should be steamed to prevent aggravation of the delicate and inflamed intestines.
References
- "Pathology and Nutrition;" The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; 2008
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Northwest Naturopathic Urology"; Sulfur-Rich Foods and Ulcerative Colitis; Eric Yarnell, N.D.; 2010
