Top 4 Dietary Choices to Support Ulcerative Colitis Management
Discover effective dietary strategies and medical options to manage ulcerative colitis. Incorporate foods like nut butters, cooked vegetables, yogurt, and salmon to reduce flare-ups. Learn about treatments such as STELARA®, Entyvio®, and Remicade® that help control symptoms and support intestinal healing. A combination of diet and medication can improve quality of life for those with this chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Top 4 Dietary Strategies to Support Ulcerative Colitis Management
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the colon and food particles, causing inflammation, ulcers, and irritation. While it’s a chronic condition, diet plays a significant role in managing symptoms. Incorporating specific foods and lifestyle adjustments may help reduce flare-ups and improve quality of life.
Foods to Consider for Ulcerative Colitis
Nut butters
Nut butters such as peanut, almond, and cashew provide healthy fats and protein, which may help soothe inflammation during flare-ups.
Peeled and Cooked Vegetables
Soft, cooked vegetables without skins—like carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes—are gentle on the digestive tract and packed with nutrients such as vitamins A and K, which may help reduce inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.
Yogurt
Fermented dairy products like plain yogurt are rich in probiotics that promote healthy gut bacteria, potentially alleviating symptoms and decreasing flare-up severity. Avoid flavored yogurt with added sugars, as these may worsen symptoms.
Salmon
Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can aid in reducing inflammation linked to ulcerative colitis. Other omega-3-rich fish include shrimp and tuna.
Medical Treatments for Ulcerative Colitis
Several therapies are available to manage symptoms, such as:
STELARA® (ustekinumab) A prescribed medication for individuals aged six and above with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis. It can provide rapid relief, often within eight weeks.
Entyvio® (vedolizumab) Recommended for adults who have not responded well to other treatments. It is administered via intravenous infusion over approximately 30 minutes.
Remicade® (Infliximab) Utilized to reduce symptoms and promote remission, this treatment also supports intestinal healing in adults with moderate to severe cases.
