Ulcerative Colon Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid

There are certain diseases and medical conditions that call for a strict diet. People with ulcerative colitis, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, need to pay attention to what they eat. They should follow a colitis diet so that it can help manage symptoms and promote overall digestive health. The diet should be rich in nutrients, easily digestible and gentle on the intestines. Fluids should also be part of the diet if you have ulcerative colitis. Read on to learn how to follow a colitis diet.

What is Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding and weight loss, says dietician Shruti K Bharadwaj.

How to Follow the Ulcerative Colitis Diet?

A 2015 study published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that people with high intakes of sugar and saturated fat and low intakes of vegetables and fruits had a higher risk of the disease. Although there is no one-size-fits-all diet for ulcerative colitis, there are some general guidelines.

1. Breakfast

Choose easily digestible foods like mashed banana and oatmeal with honey. Avoid adding nuts or seeds, which can be difficult to digest, says the expert.

2. Afternoon snack

Enjoy a piece of ripe, peeled fruit, such as a pear or apple. They provide vitamins and natural sugars without irritating the digestive system.

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3. Lunch

Eat light meals like steamed vegetables. Opt for a light lunch of rice and vegetables. Avoid heavy sauces or spices that can trigger inflammation.

4. Afternoon snack

Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey or a small handful of well-cooked rice crackers provides a protein and energy boost.

5. Dinner

Choose an easily digestible protein such as tofu or well-cooked lentils with a side of boiled carrots and mashed potatoes. Avoid high-fat meats or fried foods.

6. Before bed snack

Eat freshly cooked upma or boiled corn chaat or mashed potatoes with drinks like herbal tea, says Bharadwaj.

What are the worst foods for colitis?

While there are the best foods for colitis, there are also foods you should avoid if you suffer from the condition.

1. High fiber foods

Whole grains, nuts, seeds and raw fruits and vegetables are not good for people with colitis. They aggravate symptoms due to their rough texture and high fiber content.

2. Spicy foods

Spices and hot sauces are great ways to enhance the flavor of dishes. But they can irritate the digestive system and trigger inflammation.

3. Dairy products

Some people with ulcerative colitis are lactose intolerant or sensitive to dairy. This leads to discomfort and diarrhea.

Why are fluids important for people with colitis?

Staying hydrated is important for people with colitis, especially during flare-ups when diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Aim to drink at least 8 to 10 cups of fluids a day, including electrolyte-rich drinks like water, herbal teas and coconut water, the expert says.

Diet and nutrition management tips for colitis

Here are some more helpful dietary tips for managing colitis.

1. Keep a food diary

Keep a diary of what you eat. You can track your meals and symptoms to identify trigger foods and patterns.

2. Eat small, frequent meals

Eat small and frequent meals instead of three large meals a day. In this way digestive system overload can be avoided.

3. Consider supplements

Talk to your doctor about adding probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D supplements. These will support your gut health.

By following these guidelines, people with ulcerative colitis can better manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. However, it is essential to work closely with your dietitian to create a plan that meets your needs and addresses any underlying nutritional deficiencies or complications.