Foods to Eat for Ulcerative Colitis
Living with ulcerative colitis can be a nightmare, but there is hope! Once you have seen a doctor and found out for sure you have this chronic disease, it is incurable but there are doctor-recommended medications as well as a diet you can adhere to that will make the symptoms much more manageable. In order to ease the symptoms of colitis, eat these foods to ease inflammation in the intestines:
1. Low fiber fruits
Very often a diet packed high fiber fruits is recommended. However, the fiber of these may be difficult to digest and may cause a flare-up of your colitis. Fruits like bananas, melons like honeydew or cantaloupe and most cooked fruits. Similarly you will want to avoid whole grains, or any vegetable with a peel.
2. Dairy alternatives
Very often a person who suffers from ulcerative colitis also suffers from lactose intolerance. Whole milk and soft cheeses have many of the amino acids that can increase the inflammation of the small and large intestines. Why not try some dairy alternatives? For those who simply cannot live without their cheese or milk, why not try a harmless soy alternative?
3. Lean protein
Lean protein is quickly and easily digested, not reacting long enough with your intestines to cause a flare up. Try lean pork chops, some chicken breasts or even some firm tofu.
4. Refined grains
Again, it is not what a nutritionist would generally recommend for increased health, but refined grains are much easier to digest, and don’t have many of the amino acids commonly found in whole grains that react unpleasantly in our intestines.
5. Protein or vitamin shakes
With the bland ulcerative colitis diet it is fairly common to be deficient on some of the key nutrients we need. However, the solution is simple. Work with your doctor to figure out which vitamins you need and develop a shake you can make on your own at home. This truly is a fantastic option because you can tailor the taste to your palette. Many nutrients and dietary supplements are available at your local supplement store, often sold in a ready to be mixed formula.