Colitis, also called ulcerative colitis, is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and tiny sores in the lining of your colon and rectum. Your symptoms may come and go periodically and worsen in response to stress and eating particular foods. Diarrhea is the primary symptom, according to the Cleveland Clinic, which may become bloody. In addition to medications, relaxation exercises and surgery, when necessary, certain foods may reduce inflammation, pain and other symptoms affecting your colon.
Soft, Bland Starches
Starches, such as breads, pasta and crackers, provide glucose -- your body's primary food source of energy. While fiber-rich starches, such as whole grains, are an important components of a typical healthy diet, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends opting instead for soft, bland foods when your colitis symptoms are peaked. High-fiber foods may worsen inflammation and pain in your colon and surrounding areas and worsen diarrhea. Examples of soft, bland starches include soft white breads, enriched pasta, enriched white rice, hot rice-based cereal and instant or mashed potatoes -- free of butter, margarine or high-fat milk.
Cooked Fruits and Vegetables
Raw fruits and vegetables, particularly fiber-rich varieties, may worsen colitis symptoms. If this is the case for you, MayoClinic.com recommends cooked, steamed or stewed fruits and vegetables for reduced gas, bloating and diarrhea. Removing fruit peels that typically contain more fiber than fruit flesh, may also help. Peeled, baked apples and pears provide comforting sweet options when your symptoms are peaked. Preparing vegetables as components of broth-based soup provides the added benefit of hydration.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir are cultured dairy products that provide protein that enhances tissue repair, delivering vital nutrients, including calcium, and healthy bacteria known as probiotics. While research is ongoing, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, probiotics may help reduce mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis symptoms. Probiotics help restore bacterial balance in your digestive tract, including your colon, and may offer protection from infections caused by harmful bacteria that may worsen colitis symptoms. For best potential results, consume yogurt and/or kefir containing "live active cultures," such as lactobacilli, routinely.
Soy
Soy is a protein-rich legume variety that, unlike greasy protein sources such as fried and processed meats, does not increase inflammation. If you have lactose intolerance -- a common sensitivity among colitis sufferers -- dairy products such as milk and cheese may worsen abdominal pain, gas or diarrhea, according to MayoClinic.com. Fortified soy milk, soy cheese, edamame -- steamed soybeans and tofu -- and soybean curd, provide calcium-rich alternatives to cow's milk. Soy milk promotes hydration, which is particularly important during and following diarrhea flareups. Incorporate soy into small, frequent meals containing other appropriate foods, such as starch or easy-to-digest produce for optimum energy and wellness benefits.
Member Comments