Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
Wondering what the best food options are if you have ulcerative colitis (UC)? As a chronic inflammatory illness, UC can lead to painful symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Managing the inflammation is crucial for people living with UC, and diet plays a big role in that. While there’s no one-size-fits-all diet for UC, many people find that eating anti-inflammatory foods helps reduce symptoms and prevent flare-ups. Here, PatientsLikeMe will look at the best foods for people with UC. We will cover why anti-inflammatory meals are so important, and what foods to avoid to keep inflammation under control.
The Importance of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Inflammation is the root cause of ulcerative colitis. When the colon and rectum are inflamed, it can lead to ulcers, which cause the uncomfortable and painful symptoms of UC. While medication is often necessary to control the inflammation, the food you eat can either help calm or aggravate your gut. An anti-inflammatory diet focuses on eating foods that reduce inflammation and avoiding foods that can trigger it. This can help with symptoms and reduce flare-ups! Studies show that certain foods, such as processed meats, sugary snacks, and refined grains, can worsen UC symptoms, while whole, natural foods can promote healing.
Good Foods for UC
Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation. Some studies even suggest that olive oil can improve UC symptoms, such as bloating and constipation. Use olive oil in place of other fats, like butter or margarine, when cooking.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, people with UC need to be cautious with high-fiber foods during flare-ups, as they can be hard on the digestive system. Instead, focus on low-fiber options like bananas, peeled apples, and cooked carrots. These foods give you nutrients without irritating your gut. Soft fruits like cantaloupe and watermelon are also easier to digest.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation in the gut and may even lower the risk of UC flare-ups. Try to add fish in your diet at least twice a week.
Lean Protein
You need protein to heal, especially during a UC flare-up. Lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs are easier on the digestive system compared to red meat. Red meat can be hard to digest and may trigger inflammation. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, plant-based proteins like tofu and smooth nut butters are great alternatives.
Foods to Avoid
Ultra-Processed Foods
Processed foods, like fast food, snacks, and sugary drinks, are high in additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats. These can trigger inflammation. Research shows that eating ultra-processed foods is linked with a higher risk of inflammatory bowel diseases like UC. Avoiding foods with artificial ingredients, refined sugars, and trans fats is key in managing UC.
Red Meat
Red and processed meats, like steak, hamburgers, bacon, and sausages, are linked with increased inflammation. These meats are harder to digest and can worsen symptoms. Try to limit your intake and focus on lean proteins like poultry and fish instead.
Dairy Products
Some people with UC are sensitive to lactose. Lactose is a sugar found in dairy products like milk and cheese. Lactose intolerance can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea, which can make UC symptoms worse. If you have noticed dairy triggers your symptoms, try lactose-free alternatives, like almond milk or lactose-free yogurt.
High-Fiber Foods
While fiber is important for gut health, certain high-fiber foods can be hard for people with UC to digest. This is especially true during flare-ups. Foods like whole grains, raw vegetables, and the skins of fruits can irritate the gut and cause discomfort. Stick to lower-fiber options, like white rice, white bread, and peeled fruits and vegetables, until your symptoms improve.
Living with ulcerative colitis can be challenging, but choosing the right foods can make a big difference in how you feel. By following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in olive oil, lean proteins, fatty fish, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods, you can help reduce inflammation and manage UC symptoms. Everyone's body is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the diet that works best for you.
Nearly 1 million people have joined PatientsLikeMe. You can track your health, monitor treatment efficacy, and talk to people experiencing the same thing as you. Creating an account is free! Join today.