Colitis is the inflammation of the large intestine. Colitis is caused by food poisoning, inflammatory bowel disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and lack of blood to the colon, according to ColitisDiet.org. Symptoms of colitis include abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea, which prevent patients from tolerating regular foods. Certain foods and beverages can also aggravate these symptoms. Diet alternatives are useful for patients with colitis.
Low- Residue Foods
Patients with colitis should consume low-residue foods until their symptoms diminish. Residue includes fiber and any undigested foods that remain in the colon to form part of the stool. Low-residue diets reduce these residues in order to rest the colon and allow the inflammation to heal. Examples of low-residue foods include white rice, vegetable juices without seeds or pulp, refined breads, pasta and strained soups. High-residue foods provoke contractions once they enter the colon, which may worsen diarrhea and abdominal pain. These foods may also cause increased diarrhea because they are not completely digested. High-residue foods containing nuts and seeds may also irritate the inflamed colon.
Protein and Multivitamins
Patients with colitis should eat plenty of protein, in the form of low-fat foods like fish, skinned poultry and lean meat as tolerated, according to Colitisdiet.org. Proteins enable the body to repair inflamed tissues in the colon. Patients who are lactose intolerant should avoid milk and milk products as sources of protein, in order to prevent diarrhea. High fat protein foods should also be avoided because fat causes diarrhea and gas. Chronic colitis can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and diet restriction can also lead to malnutrition. MayoClinic recommends that patients take a daily multivitamin in ensure adequate vitamins and minerals. Vitamin supplements should not replace regular meals.
Fluids
Patients should drink plenty of fluids in order to replace fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting. Alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine should be avoided because the caffeine stimulates the intestines and this can make diarrhea worse, according to MayoClinic.
