An inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis causes the large intestine lining inflammation which causes painful ulcers on the colon. There is an increasing number of people suffering from this disease. Depending on your diet, you can enjoy long periods of bouts of painful or uncomfortable flare-ups or symptom free bliss. Here, we bring you certain diet dos and don’ts for ulcerative colitis to help ease symptoms.

Lean Meats and Fish

• Don’ts
  If we consider these foods theoretically, fatty foods are responsible for increasing chemical mediators of inflammation. These mediators can increase inflammatory response and make the problem intense and painful.
• Dos
  If you choose fatty foods like skinless chicken, fish, protein, or turkey instead of red meat, it will reduce the inflammation. This is because these foods are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids responsible for inflammation reduction.

Thus, the food category is same but the diet dos and don’ts for ulcerative colitis differ.

Cooked Veggies

• Don’ts
  It is very difficult to digest raw vegetables and fruits. It can cause a lot of gas, bloating, and stomach pain. Thus, it must be avoided by ulcerative colitis patients.
• Dos
  It is better to cook veggies and fruits slightly for better toleration. Similarly, many patients are able to tolerate peeled fruits when compared with unpeeled ones. Do not let the nutrients in fruits and veggies go waste in a pan of water. Use this water to cook rice so that none of the essential nutrients are lost in any way.

Thus, you are consuming fruits and veggies, but doing so, while taking care of diet dos and don’ts for ulcerative colitis.

Consume Bland But Interesting Foods

• Don’ts
  People suffering from ulcerative colitis must avoid consuming spicy food as it can increase the irritation in already-irritated colon.
• Dos
  Adding bland food to your diet will help you find a lot of relief in your condition. While enjoying less spicier food, also focus on drinking lots of fluid and staying hydrated. Go for low fiber food as it gives inflamed gastrointestinal tract time to heal.

Caffeine and Alcohol

• Don’ts
  Expert gastroenterologists suggests reducing the intake of alcohol and caffeine as both are responsible for gastric irritation. Reducing the intake of these beverages and alcohol can keep flares at bay. Carbonated drinks must also be avoided as carbonation can increase gas and air in the gastrointestinal system resulting in a lot of discomfort and pain.
• Dos
  If you wish to enjoy some liquids, you can go for cold milk or any beverage that has reduced amounts of caffeine. This will keep your gut healthy and comfortable.

Thus, the same foods can be added to the diet differently as per diet dos and don’ts for ulcerative colitis and keep the condition well within control.