A collection of gastrointestinal disorders hide under the label of colitis including Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis. Colitis is an inflammation of the bowel responsible for pain, bloating, gas and bloody, frequent stools. On average, colitis affects most from 15 to 30 years of age. Although factors such as chronic disease and genetics, not diet, cause colitis, learning how to eat with this disease may alleviate some of its unpleasant effects.
Step 1
Avoid and limit food and beverages that directly cause gas. By limiting some of these troubling foods, the colitis sufferer may have less painful gas and bloating during the day. Beans, cabbage and broccoli are responsible for releasing gas in the intestines during digestion. Carbonated beverages, such as ginger ale, soda or beer, will also increase gas in the colon. Limit alcoholic and caffeinated drinks as they stimulate the bowels resulting in diarrhea.
Step 2
Eat fiber -- in limited type and quantity. Fiber is a necessary part of any diet; however, it can wreak havoc on colitis symptoms. Many healthy foods, like whole grains, fruits and vegetables are fibrous. Modify and monitor fiber intake by trying one fiber at a time to watch for increased gas, pain or bloating. Try cooking or steaming vegetables as opposed to eating them raw.
Step 3
Use caution when eating dairy or dairy products. Colitis symptoms can mask an underlying lactose intolerance, which can further complicate pain and bloating. Try removing all dairy from the diet to see if symptoms improve. Low-fat dairy is a healthy source of vitamins and minerals, so those wishing to keep it in their diet can use lactase enzymes, available over-the-counter, to aid in dairy sugar digestion.
Step 4
Keep a food and symptom journal. This diary does not need to be fancy, just accurate. Throughout the day, write down foods and beverages consumed during meals, snacks, desserts and include beverages. Interspersed between the foods, jot down symptoms, trips to the bathroom, or anything out of the ordinary pertaining to your colitis. At the end of the week, review the journal and look for patterns or clues linking offending foods and symptoms.
