Ulcerative colitis causes ulcers or inflammation and sores along the lining of your rectum and colon. These ulcers bleed, produce pus and cause frequent bowel movements that are often in the form of diarrhea. Since every patient is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all diet to cure this disease. There are, however, certain foods and drinks that will certainly aggravate symptoms and that should be avoided to help manage flare-ups.
Dairy
Dairy products tend to exacerbate diarrhea and gas pains in ulcerative colitis patients. Enzyme products like Lactaid can help you tolerate dairy, although some find it better to remove dairy from the diet altogether. If you choose to forgo dairy to help manage ulcerative colitis flare-ups, consider taking a calcium supplement.
Fiber
While high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains are often a key part of a healthy diet, many with ulcerative colitis find that fiber makes the pain and the diarrhea worse. Experiment with foods that contain fiber to see if you can tolerated them when they're prepared in different ways. Steam or bake vegetables, for example, if eating them raw causes pain. Before adding large amounts of fiber to your diet, consult with a medical professional.
Process of Elimination
Because each case of ulcerative colitis is unique, so too are the foods that aggravate symptoms. While many find that traditionally "gassy" foods like broccoli and beans make gas pains worse, others can consume these foods without a problem. If you have ulcerative colitis, use a process of elimination to help you determine which foods are problematic.
Liquids
Because diarrhea is a common problem for patients with ulcerative colitis, fluid intake is critical to avert dehydration and problems with kidney functioning. It is particularly important to drink plenty of fluids like water, approximately 1/2 oz. per day for every pound of body weight, during hot summer months when dehydration can come on faster. Carbonated drinks, alcohol and caffeinated beverages may make gas and diarrhea worse and should be avoided.
Vitamins
The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America notes people with ulcerative colitis should take a multivitamin, because this disease can impede your body's ability to absorb nutrients and make eating a varied diet difficult.
