Living with colitis can be challenging, particularly when it comes to maintaining a diet for the condition. Colitis happens when the colon become inflamed, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, ulcers or rectal bleeding. Although there is no official diet plan for colitis, many of the symptoms have been reported to be manageable by using supplements or by following some general dietary guidelines.
What to Eat
Often, colitis will cause what is known as flare ups, where you experience more symptoms than normal. When you are not experiencing symptoms, it can be helpful to maintain a high-fiber diet. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are all good sources of fiber. High-protein foods, such as lean meats and fish, can also be beneficial to relieving colitis symptoms. Colitis patients are more likely to become malnourished or dehydrated due to inflammatory bowel disease symptoms, so eating wholesome foods and plenty of fluids is an important aspect of the lifestyle.
What to Avoid
Foods that cause abdominal discomfort can vary from person to person. Many people find foods containing dairy, gluten, soy or other common allergens to cause colitis flare ups. When your symptoms worsen, lowering your fiber intake allows your digestive tract to rest. Foods that are higher in fats, such as fried foods or animal products, along with caffeine and alcohol have also been reported to cause symptoms in some people. Keeping a diary of what you eat each day and when flare ups occur can help determine what foods are aggravating your digestive tract.
Supplements for Colitis
Certain supplements may help relieve your colitis symptoms and help with your overall health. The condition may cause malnutrition, so a multivitamin supplement can help ensure the body gets the nutrients it needs. Other supplements, such as fish oil, protein and aloe vera have been reported to be beneficial in relieving the severity of colitis symptoms. In some cases, B-12 supplements or shots have shown to relieve colitis-related deficiencies. Always talk to your doctor before you take any type of herbal remedy or supplement.
Alternative Diets
Due to the range of symptoms and causes of colitis, authorities such as the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America recommend trying alternative diet options to see if symptoms persist. Such diets include a gluten-free diet, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet or an elimination diet. Always discuss dietary changes to your diet with your doctor. Some diets may worsen your symptoms or could be nutritionally unsound.
