Colon ulcers, a condition more commonly known as ulcerative colitis, affect the lining of your colon, or large intestine. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, in 1998, about 619,000 people in the United States were affected by this health problem. If you have ulcerative colitis, you have small ulcers and abscesses in your colon that may cause abdominal pain, bloody stools or diarrhea. Dietary approaches have long been used in treating ulcerative colitis. However, you should always review the risks, benefits and limitations of this natural treatment method with your doctor first.
About Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the innermost tissues of your colon. Possible causes of ulcerative colitis, notes MayoClinic.com, include autoimmune reactions and heredity, although the exact cause of this uncomfortable condition is unknown. Age, family history, ethnicity and the use of certain prescription drugs -- including Accutane -- may increase your likelihood of developing ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis may occur in conjunction with chronic canker sores, joint discomfort, skin sores and anemia.
Dietary Approach
Several dietary approaches may be helpful in treating your ulcerative colitis. According to Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," limiting your consumption of sugar may be particularly helpful in treating your ulcerative colitis. You should also consider reducing your consumption of animal fat, cholesterol and margarine. Helpful foods to incorporate into your diet include garlic and dark green leafy vegetables. Foods that may be helpful in treating cramping or diarrhea -- two symptoms commonly associated with this condition -- include bananas, cooked vegetables and salmon.
An Alternative Approach
An alternative approach to treating ulcerative colitis using nutritional therapy involves consuming smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, instead of the usual three meals per day. Another alternative dietary approach to treating this health problem, notes the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, involves reducing your consumption of some high-fiber foods, including popcorn, seeds, nuts and corn. These foods may encourage cramping and cause diarrhea in some individuals. If you are lactose intolerant, you should reduce your consumption of milk and milk products.
Warning
Ulcerative colitis is an uncomfortable health problem that may benefit from the attention and care of a licensed health-care professional, especially a physician who specializes in gastrointestinal problems. To better understand the role of diet and nutrition in treating your ulcerative colitis, and to get a better sense of the potential side effects associated with this natural healing approach, schedule an appointment with a physician who specializes in clinical nutrition. More scientific testing may be required to determine the efficacy of certain foods traditionally used in treating this condition.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Digestive Diseases Statistics for the United States
- MayoClinic.com: Ulcerative Colitis
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
- Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America: Diet and Nutrition
