Foods to Eat (and Avoid) with Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis can feel overwhelming, as flare-ups can strike unexpectedly, and there’s no known cure for it. However, there’s good news: while researchers don’t know the exact cause of the disease, they do know that certain foods can trigger it. 

Food is not the only trigger, but it’s the most impactful one and the easiest to manage. Stress can also act as a trigger for some people suffering from ulcerative colitis.

Our experts at Desert Valley Gastroenterology in Mesa, Arizona, understand how overwhelming and uncomfortable ulcerative colitis can be. They want to help their patients improve their quality of life by making better dietary choices.

Foods to avoid with ulcerative colitis

Certain foods are known to increase inflammation and worsen diarrhea, making flare-ups more likely. The most common triggers to avoid include:

• High-fiber foods (which are difficult to digest and can irritate the colon)
• Nuts, seeds, and grains (which can irritate the colon)
• Fatty, fried foods (which can increase inflammation and raise your risk of diarrhea)
• Spicy foods (which can irritate the colon)
• Alcohol and caffeine (which act as stimulants, raising your risk of diarrhea)
• Carbonated beverages (which can cause bloating and gas)
• Raw fruits and vegetables (uncooked fruits and vegetables are harder to digest)

Not everyone has the same triggers. The best way to find out your food triggers is to keep a food diary.

Foods to eat with ulcerative colitis

While some foods can aggravate your symptoms, others can deliver the essential nutrition you need without triggering a flare-up. Here are the foods you should focus on:

• Low-fiber fruits and vegetables (which are less likely to irritate the colon)
• Omega-3-rich foods (which may help reduce inflammation)
• Lean proteins (which may help reduce inflammation)
• Probiotic-rich foods (which may help with your gut bacteria)
• Cooked vegetables (which are easier to digest)

Recent studies conducted on animal models suggest that low-carb diets could be beneficial for ulcerative colitis as they reduce the amount of bad bacteria in the gut and lower inflammation.

Getting help for your ulcerative colitis

Although ulcerative colitis can be managed with dietary changes, it is important for patients not to blame themselves for their symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is not caused by diet; instead, it’s an inflammation of the colon and the rectum most likely caused by an autoimmune response to the bacteria in the gut. Genetics and environmental pollutants play a role as well. 

In some people, dietary changes are not enough to increase their quality of life. If that's the case, medications can be a helpful addition.

If you are struggling with ulcerative colitis, you don’t need to fight this battle alone. Having an expert on your side can significantly improve your quality of life. Contact us to schedule an appointment to receive a personalized treatment and reduce your symptoms.