Milly Gaines
Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the large bowel and can affect the rectum, part of, or the entire colon. While dietary choices do not cause ulcerative colitis, they can trigger or relieve symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, cramping, and gas. People with ulcerative colitis may find that certain foods are harder to digest during a flare-up, but they may be able to eat these foods when their disease is in remission. Trigger foods vary from person to person, but some common ones include insoluble fibre, lactose, alcohol, spicy foods, and fatty foods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Diet | Can help manage ulcerative colitis by putting less stress on the colon. |
| Foods to eat | Lean protein, refined grains, starchy vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, iron, calcium, vitamin A, low-residue foods, binding foods, soft fruits high in pectin, bananas, white rice, applesauce, toast, lactose-free alternatives, plant-based proteins, meat-based proteins |
| Foods to avoid | Insoluble fibre, raw cruciferous vegetables, skins and peels of fruits, high-fibre foods, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, red meat, processed meats, lactose products, dairy, baked goods, fatty cuts of meat, spicy foods, alcohol, coffee, carbonated drinks, high-sugar foods |
| General eating habits | Smaller meals, well-chewed food, no drinking through straws |
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What You'll Learn
Dietary triggers for colitis
Other dietary triggers include red meat, processed meats, spicy foods, alcohol, and coffee. These foods can irritate inflamed tissues and ulcers and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and gas. A diet high in meat and low in fruits and vegetables can also increase the risk of colitis flare-ups.
It is important to note that dietary needs and restrictions will change as symptoms come and go, and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist when making dietary changes. A food journal can also be helpful in identifying any foods that may be causing problems.
While not a specific trigger food, drinking through straws should be avoided, as it can cause bloating and gas. Additionally, it is recommended to eat smaller meals throughout the day and fully chew your food.
Some general dietary strategies for managing colitis include a low-residue diet, which helps reduce the amount of undigested grit in stools, and eating binding foods, which are low in fibre and help ease diarrhoea by making stools firmer. Examples of binding foods include refined grains and soft fruits high in pectin, such as bananas, white rice, applesauce, and toast.
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Foods to avoid with colitis
While diet does not cause colitis, certain foods can trigger symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and changing your diet could help ease these symptoms. It is important to note that dietary needs and restrictions will change as symptoms come and go, and trigger foods can vary from person to person.
Insoluble Fibre
Insoluble fibre, found in raw cruciferous vegetables and the skins and peels of fruits, can be difficult to digest during a flare-up. Examples of insoluble fibre foods to avoid include raw green vegetables, whole nuts, whole grains, and fruits with skin.
Dairy and Lactose Products
Lactose is a sugar found in dairy products like milk, cheese, and yoghurt. Lactose intolerance may be more common in people with ulcerative colitis, and symptoms of lactose intolerance can be similar to those of the disease, including diarrhoea, bloating, and abdominal pain. Therefore, it may be beneficial to limit or avoid lactose-containing products during a flare-up.
High-Fat Foods
Consuming high-fat foods, such as full-fat dairy, coconut, and processed foods containing palm oil, may worsen symptoms and increase the risk of flares.
Red Meat and Processed Meats
Red meat and processed meats are recommended to be limited or avoided as they may trigger symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Alcoholic Drinks
Alcoholic beverages, such as wine, beer, and liquor, may trigger symptoms in some individuals. Alcohol can increase intestinal inflammation, worsen symptoms, and increase the risk of relapse. It may also negatively interact with medications used for treatment.
Carbonated and Sugary Drinks
Carbonated drinks, including sodas and carbonated water, can irritate the digestive tract and cause gas. Additionally, sugary drinks and products, such as juices, candies, and baked goods, can contribute to flares and should be consumed in moderation or avoided.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or a dietitian to determine the best dietary approach for managing ulcerative colitis, as individual needs may vary.
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Foods to eat with colitis
Diet can help manage ulcerative colitis by reducing symptoms and promoting gut health. However, it is important to note that dietary needs and restrictions will change as symptoms come and go, and trigger foods can vary from person to person.
A general framework for managing ulcerative colitis with diet involves a low-residue diet, which includes foods that do not leave undigested grit in stools, reducing the chance of aggravating open sores in the colon. Examples of low-residue foods include refined grains and soft fruits high in pectin, such as bananas, white rice, applesauce, and toast. Lean proteins, such as chicken, turkey, fish, tofu, and edamame, are also recommended as they provide essential nutrients without irritating the colon. Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish like salmon have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on ulcerative colitis.
It is also suggested to eat smaller meals throughout the day, chew food thoroughly, and stay well-hydrated with plain water if experiencing diarrhea. Additionally, cooking techniques like broiling, steaming, and poaching are preferred over frying.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that targets inflammation and ensures adequate nutrient intake, as people with ulcerative colitis are at a higher risk of nutrient deficiencies.
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How diet affects colitis symptoms
Diet can significantly affect colitis symptoms. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the large bowel and can affect the rectum, part of, or the entire colon. While dietary choices do not cause the disease, they can help relieve symptoms or trigger flare-ups.
People with UC may find that certain foods aggravate their symptoms, and it is essential to identify and avoid these trigger foods. Common triggers include insoluble fibres found in raw cruciferous vegetables and the skins and peels of fruits, high-fibre foods such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, red meat, processed meats, and lactose products like cow's milk, cheese, and yogurts. Some people with UC are lactose intolerant and lack the enzymes to break down this sugar, so dairy may need to be replaced with non-dairy substitutes. Additionally, alcoholic drinks, sodas, and carbonated beverages can irritate the digestive tract and cause gas.
During a flare-up, it is recommended to eat foods that provide sufficient nutrients without exacerbating symptoms. Lean protein, refined grains, and starchy vegetables can help ease symptoms. A low-residue diet, which includes foods that don't leave undigested grit in stools, can reduce the chances of stools scraping against open sores in the colon, thereby lessening pain and bleeding. Eating smaller meals throughout the day, fully chewing food, and avoiding drinking through straws can also help manage symptoms.
It is important to note that dietary needs and restrictions will vary from person to person, and trigger foods can be unique to each individual. Consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist is essential to develop a personalised diet plan that ensures adequate nutrient intake while managing UC symptoms.
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Diet plans for colitis
During a flare-up
During a flare-up, a low-fibre diet is often recommended, along with small, frequent meals and nutrition shakes. It is important to be cautious about consuming alcohol, as it may trigger flares and cause an increase in symptoms. Alcohol may also interfere with certain medications.
During remission
During remission, it is important to eat a well-balanced diet of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. A broad diet is recommended, including lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as gluten and dairy products as tolerated. It is also beneficial to include anti-inflammatory foods and omega-3 fatty acids.
Foods to avoid
Some potential trigger foods for colitis include insoluble fibres found in raw cruciferous vegetables and the skins and peels of fruits, as well as high-fibre foods like broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. Some meats, including red meat, processed meats, and lactose products, may also be triggers. Alcoholic drinks and carbonated beverages may also irritate the digestive tract and trigger symptoms.
Foods to include
Cooked starches, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and rice, are recommended, as well as cooked leafy green vegetables. Omega-3-rich proteins like salmon, paired with cooked vegetables and grains, are also a good option.
Meal planning tips
It is important to stay hydrated and create a plan for eating outside the home, such as reviewing menus ahead of time and adapting recipes to suit your needs. It is also beneficial to slowly introduce new foods, especially fruits and vegetables, to avoid any digestive issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the large bowel and can affect the rectum, part of, or the entire colon.
No, diet does not cause ulcerative colitis. However, certain foods can trigger symptoms or flare-ups and changing your diet can help relieve symptoms.
There are several foods that can trigger ulcerative colitis symptoms, including insoluble fibres, lactose, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, fatty foods, and high-sugar foods. It is important to note that trigger foods vary from person to person.
If you have ulcerative colitis, it is recommended to eat a well-balanced diet that includes foods high in vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin A. A low-residue diet that includes binding foods can also help reduce pain and bleeding. Working with a healthcare professional is important to develop a diet plan that is right for you.
Some dietary strategies for managing ulcerative colitis include slowly reintroducing high-fibre foods, eating smaller meals, fully chewing your food, and avoiding drinking through straws. It is also recommended to keep a food journal to help identify any problem foods.
