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There is no real cause for most inflammatory bowel diseases, but certain foods and drinks are known to trigger or worsen symptoms. Monitor what you eat and make a note of any flare-ups that subsequently occur. By keeping a food journal, you will be able to come up with a list of foods and beverages that worsen the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Start by limiting dairy products. Many people are lactose intolerant, and milk sugar is known to cause abdominal pain, gas and diarrhea. If you suspect that dairy products are bringing on ulcerative colitis symptoms, take an enzyme product that can break down the lactose, or eliminate dairy products altogether.
Drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated fluids and limit carbonated beverages. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages stimulate your digestive system and carbonated beverages are known to produce an increased amount of bloating and gas.
Eat five to six small meals per day instead of three larger meals. Spacing out your meals reduces the workload put on your digestive system, which in turn may ease ulcerative colitis symptoms. Eating smaller meals can also be beneficial if you are diabetic or overweight.
Watch the amount of fiber you consume. For most people, fiber helps to regulate digestion; however, people with ulcerative colitis often find that fiber can worsen gas, pain and diarrhea. Bake, steam or stew vegetables instead of eating them raw, and cut back on the amount of whole grains you consume. Speak to your physician about how much fiber you should be eating.
Avoid foods that worsen your symptoms. Gassy foods, spicy foods, dairy products and alcoholic, carbonated and caffeinated beverages should all be severely limited, if not eliminated altogether.
Take a multi-vitamin. Ulcerative colitis can reduce your body's ability to absorb vitamins and minerals from food. Taking a multi-vitamin supplement ensures you are getting the nutrients you need.
