Diet Tips: Foods to Avoid with Ulcerative Colitis

Dietary Guidelines for Ulcerative Colitis Management

Foods to steer clear of if you suffer from ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes persistent inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum. It affects the large intestine’s lining and has a prevalence rate of 40 to 250 cases per 100,000 individuals. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, rectal discomfort, urgency, fatigue, fever, and growth issues in children. Managing symptoms often involves dietary modifications to reduce flare-ups.

Eliminating certain foods can help ease symptoms. A low-fiber diet excluding the following items is recommended:

Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa

Whole grains contain fibrous parts that can irritate the bowel, leading to pain and inflammation. Opt for cooked white rice instead, which is gentle on the digestive system.

High-fiber bread and pasta

Switch to refined white flour products such as white bread, pasta, and cereals like corn flakes or cream of wheat to prevent flare-ups caused by excess fiber.

Seeds

Seseeds like sesame, flax, pumpkin, and sunflower have insoluble fibers that can trigger symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea. Avoid topping foods with these seeds.

Legumes and dried beans

High-protein, high-fiber foods like chickpeas, kidney beans, and edamame can worsen symptoms due to gas and bloating. Limit their intake during flare-ups.

Fruits and vegetables with skins and seeds

To make fibrous produce more digestible, peel, deseed, and cook fruits and veggies thoroughly. Canned or pureed options are also suitable.

Dairy products containing lactose

If lactose intolerance causes symptoms, consider reducing or avoiding dairy like milk and cheese to prevent exacerbation of symptoms.

Sulfate-rich foods and beverages

Foods high in sulfates, such as red meat, cruciferous vegetables, and beer, can promote toxic gas production in the gut and aggravate ulcerative colitis. Limiting these can help manage symptoms.