Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that occurs as the result of inflammation in the digestive tract. Some of the symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, rectal pain, weight loss and fatigue. Medication is the standard treatment for ulcerative colitis. However, medication won’t cure the condition; it will only help manage symptoms.
Avoiding the following trigger foods can also help reduce symptom flare ups:
1. Alcohol
Alcohol is something that you should avoid if you have any type of inflammatory bowel disease IBD. It has a tendency to stimulate the intestines. That is why if you drink alcohol, then you are likely to suffer from diarrhea.
2. Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant, so it isn’t good for people who have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. You may find yourself going to the bathroom a lot if you consume caffeine. You will need to limit your consumption of tea, coffee, energy drinks and chocolate.
3. Carbonated beverages
Carbonated beverages are ones that contain dissolved carbon dioxide. This includes beers and sodas. Carbonated beverages can irritate the digestive tract. That is why they can trigger unpleasant symptoms, such as gas and bloating. Many carbonated beverages also contain sugar or artificial sweeteners.
4. Dairy products
If you are lactose intolerant, then it is a good idea for you to avoid dairy products. Your body does not digest dairy products well if you are lactose intolerant. Milk, cheese and ice cream can cause bloating and gas.
5. Foods high in fiber
Fiber is one of the nutrients that you need in order to stay healthy. However, it can worsen your ulcerative colitis symptoms. That is why experts recommend that you stick to a low-fiber diet. Whole grains, beans and legumes are examples of some of the foods that you will need to avoid. You don’t have to avoid these foods completely. However, you will need to eat them in small amounts.
6. Sulfur or sulfates
Sulfates are foods that are naturally found in many foods. They may be artificially added to processed foods. It is estimated that 1 in 100 people has a sulfate sensitivity.
Baked goods, soup mixes, dried fruit, apple cider and tea are examples of some of the foods that have sulfates in them. There are many other foods that may contain sulfates. That is why it is important for you to read the food labels.
7. Popcorn
Popcorn is a popular movie snack. However, it is not something that you want to eat a lot of if you have ulcerative colitis. Not only is popcorn high in fiber, but it is harder for the body to digest. It can trigger diarrhea and bloating.