Ulcerative colitis, also simply called "colitis," is a chronic disease that causes sores and inflammation in your rectum and large intestine. Diagnosis can be difficult, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, since symptoms of Crohn's disease -- another inflammatory bowel disease -- are similar. Proper diagnosis and treatment are important for managing your symptoms, which often include diarrhea, abdominal pain and fatigue. A healthy diet may also improve your symptoms and prevent complications.
Whole-grain Cereal
Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of vital nutrient content and fiber during food processing. Unless your diarrhea symptoms are active, whole grains can help improve digestive function and enhance your overall wellness. According to a report published in "Cereal Chemistry" in July 2010, whole-grain fibers process more slowly during digestion, trigger less gas and are more effective in improving fecal matter consistency and intestinal balance than wheat bran cereal, which contains only portions of grains. These attributes may provide exceptional benefits if you have ulcerative colitis. For best results, replace enriched cereals with 100 percent whole-grain cereals consistently. When purchasing cereals, check food packaging to ensure that whole grains are listed as main ingredients.
Soft, Bland Foods
During colitis symptom flare-ups, which may come and go episodically, avoid spicy, high-fat and fiber-rich foods that may worsen abdominal pain, diarrhea and other symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends eating soft, bland foods during these periods. For example, choose a skinless, baked chicken breast over fried or spicy meats and plain, mashed potatoes over potato chips or french fries. Additional soft-textured and mild-tasting foods include scrambled eggs prepared with nonstick cooking spray rather than butter, rice-based hot cereal, mashed bananas, well-cooked pasta and soft, crustless white bread.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir provide rich amounts of protein, which enhances tissue repair and immune system function. They also provide nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which help prevent nutritional deficiencies. As cultured milk products, yogurt and kefir also provide probiotics -- "friendly" bacteria that may help restore digestive health and improve colitis symptoms. Probiotics may also enhance digestion if you have food intolerances. For maximum benefit, routinely consume yogurt and/or kefir that contain live, active cultures -- such as lactobacilli.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut and sardines are rich sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats that promote heart-health, positive brain function and may reduce inflammation. Regularly consuming omega-3 fatty acids may help alleviate joint pain, a potential symptom of ulcerative colitis. For best results, regularly consume baked, broiled or grilled fatty fish in place of high-fat meats.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Ulcerative Colitis
- AACC International Cereal Chemistry: Molecular Diversity and Health Benefits of Carbohydrates from Cereals and Pulses; Whole Grains and Digestive Health; Joanne Slavin; July 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ulcerative Colitis -- Treatment
