If you’ve been diagnosed with colitis, your doctor may recommend modifications to your daily diet. A change in diet will not cure the condition but may reduce your symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the lining of the large intestine, also called the colon. The exact cause of the condition is unknown and it is incurable.
Colitis
Colitis is a chronic digestive condition that causes constant inflammation in the lining of the rectum and colon. The condition commonly results in the formation of ulcers in the colon. Ulcers are open sores that cause soft tissues of the colon to be exposed to harsh digestive chemicals. The formation of ulcers can lead to blood or pus in your stools, along with diarrhea. This condition is commonly confused with Crohn’s disease because of similar symptoms and traits. Crohn’s is different because it primarily affects the small intestines and affects deeper levels of intestinal tissue.
Limit Diary Products
Diary products may trigger colitis symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that eliminating or reducing dairy products may help prevent diarrhea. Those with colitis are more prone to lactose intolerance, the inability to digest the sugar in milk. Consuming dairy products if you’re lactose intolerant can cause gas, bloating, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. MayoClinic.com warns that if you eliminate dairy, you will need to find alternative sources of calcium. Many milk substitutes, such as soy, rice or almond milk are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making them nutritionally similar to cow's milk.
Fiber Consideration
While fruits, vegetables and whole grains are important in a well-balanced diet, you may need to limit your fiber intake. Some people with colitis experience worse symptoms after eating foods that are high in fiber. Common high-fiber foods include raspberries, pears, apples, strawberries, whole wheat, wheat bran, flaxseeds, beans, lentils, peas, broccoli, corn and carrots. If you notice that eating high-fiber foods triggers your symptoms, talk with your doctor about implementing a low-fiber bland food diet.
Identify and Avoid Problem Foods
Not everyone with colitis experiences digestive problems with the same foods, but some foods are more common triggers than others. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that common trigger foods may include spicy foods, high-fat foods, chocolate, beans and artificial sweeteners and recommends avoiding caffeine, white bread, pasta, alcohol and tobacco. MayoClinic.com states that cabbage, broccoli, raw fruits and fruit juices, popcorn and carbonated beverages may aggravate your symptoms.
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