Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) known as ulcerative colitis makes the colon inflamed. An essential part of managing ulcerative colitis is keeping a check on one’s food regime. Ulcerative colitis-related diarrhea, cramps, and stomach pain may be eased by a low-residue meal plan rich in lean meats, refined grains, and starchy vegetables. On the other hand, meals that are packed with sweet, fried, oily, or fiber-rich foods might exacerbate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

Foods to eat

Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the best foods to eat with ulcerative colitis as it has live bacteria called probiotics. Good bacteria in yogurt can help with digestion if one is not lactose intolerant. However, one must make sure the yogurt they purchase is labeled with “live and active cultures.” Yogurt with big fruit pieces should be avoided since they may be difficult to digest. One can mix yogurt with soft, seedless fruit.

Salmon
The International Organization for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IOIBD) suggests people with ulcerative colitis to increase their intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA, is an omega-3 fatty acid that may reduce inflammation. Fish oil is an excellent source of EPA and salmon is one of the best ulcerative colitis foods that is packed with good omega-3 fatty acids. One may also add shrimp, tuna, or any seafood that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids to their daily meals. However, gastroenterologists advise against frying salmon and instead suggest baking, broiling, or sautéing it as fish loses a lot of its nutritious value when it’s fried.

Nut butters
Nut butters such as cashews, almonds, and peanut butter are great sources of protein and good fats and can be enjoyed by people with ulcerative colitis. To prevent having to digest challenging nut chunks during a flare-up, opt for creamy peanut butter rather than chunky. Try spreading peanut butter on a tortilla or a toast. Nut butter on low-fiber crackers, such as saltines, is also an excellent option.

Water and fruit juices
Individuals with ulcerative colitis might have to increase their fluid intake since diarrhea can cause dehydration and it is crucial to rehydrate. Every symptom one experiences becomes more intense when one is dehydrated. Substituting electrolytes and carbs for lost ones may be achieved by mixing sports drinks and water in a 1:1 ratio. One can also opt for no-pulp fruit juice, but stay away from prune juice due to its high fiber content.

Foods to avoid

Milk and cheese
Lactose is a sugar found in dairy products like milk and cheese. While lactose is not harmful to everyone with ulcerative colitis, some people may experience symptoms if they have foods containing lactose. The small intestine lacks the digestive enzyme lactase, so lactose intolerance inhibits one from properly digesting lactose and the sugar present in milk, cheese, and dairy products. Although lactose intolerance can result in symptoms like diarrhea and stomach pain that are mistaken for ulcerative colitis, dairy does not appear to trigger flare-ups of ulcerative colitis. But if one is known to be sensitive to dairy products, they are best avoided.

Carbonated beverages
Some people may have gas or bloating after having fizzy drinks, which might exacerbate their stomach pain. Caffeine, found in many carbonated energy drinks and soft drinks, may stimulate the intestines and exacerbate diarrhea. People with ulcerative colitis should avoid carbonated beverages as these may irritate the stomach and aggravate bowels even more. Moreover, regularly having sugar-filled soft drinks can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.

Wholegrains
The number of patients with ulcerative colitis who have gluten sensitivity or intolerance is rising. Several people without any signs of celiac disease—a response to consuming gluten, or the proteins present in wheat, barley, rye, and certain oats—are reporting gastrointestinal problems and sensitivity to gluten. If one has ulcerative colitis, wholegrain breads and cereals might cause flare-ups as they are hard to digest. Steer clear of wholewheat bread and pasta of any sort, including noodles and macaroni. Pick items made with enhanced white flour to reduce cramping and bowel motions.

One should consult their doctor and nutritionist to determine which meals are the best foods for their condition. Patients should inform their healthcare practitioner about the eating habits and emotional state to obtain a customized meal plan suitable for their requirements. Those with busy work schedules must consider items that they can carry on the go for nutritious snacks when creating meal plans. Moreover, smaller meals spread out throughout the day may work better than three large ones.