Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. It causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, particularly the colon and rectum. It exists along continuous parts of the colon, whereas Crohn's Disease, another form of IBD, occurs along varied locations in the digestive tract and affects the tissues. Symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea. Currently, there is no cure for colitis, however, following a healthy diet may help to alleviate symptoms.
Contact a Registered Dietitian
Step 1
Meet with a Registered Dietitian, or RD, to discuss your symptoms and current diet. Request a RD who specializes in gastrointestinal disorders.
Step 2
Keep a food journal for at least a week to be prepared for the meeting. Detail foods consumed along with the time, amount and any symptoms that occur after eating.
Step 3
Discuss your options with the RD. Be open to trying new tactics to alleviate symptoms of colitis.
Explore Dietary Options
Step 1
Avoid foods that consistently aggravate your colitis. Refrain from eating gas-producing foods such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and beans. Popcorn, caffeine, alcohol and carbonated beverages may also cause discomfort and should be avoided, if so.
Step 2
Monitor dairy intake. Eliminating cheese, milk and yogurt may reduce or even do away with many symptoms of colitis. Experiment with lactose-free options such as soy, almond or rice milk products.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water. Increased fluid intake helps with the digestive process.
Step 4
Watch fiber intake. High fiber foods may worsen symptoms of colitis. Fiber is prevalent in whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Step 5
Take a multivitamin. A restricted diet may result in inadequate nutrient and vitamin consumption.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise may help your symptoms to subside. Start slowly and aim for 30 minutes at least five days a week. Symptoms may increase during high-stress times. Practice stress reduction methods such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing to reduce stress and possibly, colitis symptoms.
- Always speak with your physician or other health professional prior to starting a new diet or exercise program. If symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately.
