Understanding inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis can be difficult, especially knowing what foods to eat. Eating inflammatory foods can exacerbate an ulcerative colitis flare. Likewise, a lack of variety in the diet can quickly lead to nutrient deficiency. Here, we examine some recommended diets for ulcerative colitis flares.

Tips To Reduce Ulcerative Colitis Flare-Ups

Your nutrition affects your overall health and well-being. When you do not get the proper nutrients, you can experience ulcerative colitis complications like weight loss, malnutrition, and nutritional deficiencies. Before we dive into the ulcerative colitis diet you should follow, here are a few tips that can help improve your health and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

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  • Eat multiple small meals each day rather than eating three large meals. Eating four or more smaller meals a day prevents you from overeating, which can overwork your digestive system and increase inflammation.
  • Drink lots of fluids—Choose pure filtered water or organic broths to ensure you get enough fluids. Drinking one ounce of fluids for every two pounds of weight is advisable. You can check your urine to see if you are adequately hydrated; it should be pale yellow to clear.
  • Drink slowly—Avoid gulping down your drinks quickly or using a straw. Sucking using a straw can make you ingest air, which can increase gas in your digestive system.
  • Food Journal—Keep a food journal to help you identify any foods that trigger a flare-up. Food journals should include everything you eat or drink throughout the day and any symptoms you experience. Remember, it can take two to three days for symptoms to show up. Although it may take several months, a food journal can help you find your triggers.

Foods to Eat With Ulcerative Colitis

The CDC estimates that approximately 3 million American adults suffer from an inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis. If you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, avoiding high-fiber foods like raw fruits, nuts, vegetables, and seeds is advisable. Some easy-to-digest foods for combating an ulcerative colitis flare are-

  • Applesauce—During an ulcerative colitis flare, your gastrointestinal system is seriously inflamed and irritated. Easier-to-digest soft foods provide your body with antioxidants to help quell inflammation. Ideally, choose organic, unsweetened applesauce since added sugar increases inflammation throughout the body, including the digestive tract.
  • Probiotics Builds Your Defense Against Toxic Chemicals Cooked Vegetables—Cooked vegetables like spinach and carrots are packed with vitamins A and K. Thoroughly cooking vegetables can help break down any fiber that could irritate your gastrointestinal tract. You want to cook your vegetables until you can mash them with a fork.
  • Yogurt—Yogurt provides easy-to-digest protein and probiotics. The most beneficial yogurts contain active and live cultures. Avoid sweetened yogurt, as it can increase inflammation. Finally, avoid yogurt that includes chunks of fruit, as they can be difficult to digest; instead, choose smooth, seedless yogurt flavors.
  • Salmon—Salmon is an excellent source of easily digestible protein. Salmon also contains essential omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce inflammation in the GI tract.
  • Peanut Butter—Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats that individuals with ulcerative colitis can enjoy. However, be cautious of added sugars in peanut and other nut butter. Organic peanut butter is a good option; make sure the only ingredient is peanuts.
  • Avocados—Avocados are high in omega-3 fatty acids that help to reduce inflammation in the body. Avocados also contain antioxidants like vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin C. These antioxidants promote healing.
  • Eggs—Eggs contain numerous essential nutrients, including easy-to-digest protein. Furthermore, they offer eggs fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation.
  • Fruit Juices and Smoothies—Getting your body’s nutrients can be complex during an ulcerative colitis flare. Fruit juices and smoothies allow you to get nutrients in easily digestible meals. For example, carrots contain loads of vitamin A, spinach contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, and folate, and pineapple contains bromelain and vitamin C. Juicing these fruits and vegetables and mixing them with chia seeds, almond milk, and Greek yogurt provides a soothing yet nutritious shake.
  • Fluids—Ulcerative colitis can cause diarrhea, which can cause fluid loss and dehydration. Drinking water, natural sports drinks, and fruit juices can help rehydrate the body.

  • Ulcerative Colitis Diet

Foods to Eat with Ulcerative Colitis

One of the hardest things to do if you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis is to ensure you are getting the appropriate nutrients your body needs. Several foods can increase inflammation and worsen symptoms. Consuming easy-to-digest and nutrient-dense foods is the first step toward optimal health.

Developing meal plans, eating four to six smaller meals daily, and avoiding irritating, high-fiber foods are key to improving overall gut health. Many people find that following a low FODMAP diet or another elimination diet can ease their symptoms. We understand that navigating a digestive disorder may be confusing and frustrating. Our integrative practitioners can help you figure out an ulcerative colitis diet with the most healing foods to reduce the risk of flare-ups and relieve your symptoms.