Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease causing ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum. The most common symptoms of ulcerative colitis are abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. Other, less common symptoms include anemia, fatigue, joint pain, weight loss and loss of appetite. Though a change in diet will not cure ulcerative colitis, it can reduce symptoms and lengthen the period of time between flare-ups.
Step 1
Ask a gastroenterologist for diet advice to manage ulcerative colitis. Gastroenterologists are physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal conditions.
Step 2
Consult a dietitian for assistance in planning meals and snacks that will not aggravate ulcerative colitis. Dietitians assist people in developing meal plans that best meet their nutritional needs. They are skilled in tailoring meal plans to fit the needs of people with medical conditions.
Step 3
Discuss dietary concerns at a support group with others who suffer from ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis support group members may have made changes to their diets that have positively impacted their symptoms. However, consult your physician prior to adopting a new diet to ensure it is suitable for you.
References
- "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, Gena Duncan and Wendy Baumle; 2010
- "Gastrointestinal Nursing"; Graeme Smith and Roger Watson; 2005
- "Contemporary Nutrition"; Gordon M. Wardlaw and Anne M. Smith; 2007
