Introduction
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the large intestine and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers.
Flare-ups of UC can be triggered by various factors, including stress, certain foods, infections, and changes in medication. Here are some strategies that can help stop ulcerative colitis flare-ups:
- Medications: The primary treatment for UC is medication, and several types of drugs are available to reduce inflammation, control symptoms, and prevent flare-ups. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs such as mesalamine, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators like azathioprine or biologics like Infliximab, Adalimumab, and Golimumab. The treatment plan depends on the severity of symptoms, the extent of inflammation, and other factors.
- Stress management: Stress and anxiety can trigger UC flare-ups. Therefore, it is essential to manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness. Exercise regularly, get adequate sleep, and avoid overworking.
- EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil, can combat inflammation by blocking leukotrienes. It benefits some people with UC. Adding fish oil to aminosalicylates (a class of meds called 5-ASA) may also help, but more research is needed. DHA is another omega-3 in fish oil that fights inflammation and is used by some with UC.
- Studies suggest that probiotic-rich yogurt (It is a curdled milk product, often combined with fruit or other flavors, made by using bacteria to coagulate the milk.) can alleviate inflammation in the gut.
- It is also believed that UC symptoms can be alleviated by consuming a low-FODMAP diet, which involves reducing highly fermentable carbohydrates found in various foods such as meats, fruits, and dairy.
- For individuals with ulcerative colitis, fruits that are low in fiber, such as bananas, cantaloupes, and cooked fruits, may be a good option. High-fiber foods can exacerbate inflammation in the gut, causing discomfort and worsening of symptoms in those with UC.
- Hydration: Dehydration can worsen UC symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and electrolyte solutions, to stay hydrated. Avoid carbonated drinks and caffeine, which can irritate the bowel.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen UC symptoms, and quitting smoking may stop ulcerative colitis flare-ups.
Foods to avoid
While fibrous fruits are healthy for you, most fruits contain a lot of fiber. Fruits that have a lot of seeds should be avoided. Another study showed that a gluten-free diet can significantly stop ulcerative colitis flare-ups.
- dietary emulsifiers such as carboxymethylcellulose and polysorbate-80
- artificial sweeteners, such as sorbitol
- fruits, such as prunes, pears, and peaches,
- butter
- coconut and other oils
- margarine
- oats
- wild rice
- plain barley
- millet
- wheat-berries
- walnuts
- hazelnuts
- pecans
- cashews
- almonds
- macadamia nuts
- peanuts
- pistachios
- sesame seeds
- flaxseeds
- millet
- fried foods
- cereals
- Spicy foods
- Red meat and processed meats
- noodles
- macaroni
- brown rice
- quinoa
- buckwheat
- pine nuts
- sunflower seeds
- pumpkin seeds
- wild rice
- chickpeas
- soy nuts butter
- coconut and other oils
- margarine
- cream
- fried foods
- gluten-containing foods
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol and carbonated drinks
Recommended food choices
It is recommended to focus on eating foods that are gentle on your digestive system. Some foods that are considered safe and easily digestible include low-fiber fruits such as bananas, cantaloupes, and cooked fruits. Additionally, refined white carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and rice can be included in your diet as they are more easily digested than their whole-grain counterparts.
When it comes to protein, it is advisable to opt for lean sources such as skinless chicken or turkey breast, fish, and eggs. These foods are less likely to cause irritation in the gut than high-fat meats.
Well-cooked skinless vegetables are also good options, as they are easier to digest and less likely to cause inflammation. Some examples include cooked carrots, squash, and green beans.
Finally, skinless and seedless fruits are generally well-tolerated by individuals with UC, unless there is a known allergy or intolerance to a particular fruit.
Gradually reintroducing high-fiber foods is important to increase your chances of remission, as fiber is beneficial for colon tissue and gut bacteria health. So, while keeping in mind your nutritional needs, try to incorporate high-fiber foods back into your diet slowly.
Citation
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317836#foods-to-avoid
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ulcerative-colitis/living-with/
https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/dietary-advice-for-ulcerative-colitis
Wow, this blogger is seriously impressive!