5 Ways to Manage Ulcerative Colitis for Fewer Symptoms

One of the most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), affects the large intestine, causing cramping and bloody diarrhea. It’s a condition that tends to have alternating periods of flaring and remission. 

As specialists in inflammatory bowel disease and UC, the team at Gastroenterology & Nutrition of Central Florida is ready to help you with diagnosis and treatment. Our management plan focuses on reducing inflammation while encouraging more frequent and longer-lasting remission. 

You can also take steps to reduce the impact of UC episodes. Try these five ways to manage ulcerative colitis with fewer symptoms. 

Pass on dairy

While there’s no conclusive proof of diet as a cause of UC, food and drink can play a large role in the severity of your symptoms during a flare-up. Altering your intake can make a big difference in coping with UC episodes. 

Dairy foods commonly aggravate UC symptoms. Eliminating dairy items like cheese, cream, ice cream, milk, yogurt, and other products with a milk base might reduce abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gas. 

Try going cold turkey on dairy products and monitor your condition to see if you recognize any differences over your usual UC episodes.

Eat less, more often

Frequent small meals may be easier on your colon than three larger meals. The challenge here is to prepare thoughtfully so that you don’t rely on low-nutrition convenience foods. 

If you choose a small meal plus snacking model, be sure that your snacks are balanced and nutritious within your overall eating plan. 

Beverages and hydration

Much of what you might drink can contribute to diarrhea or make it worse. Alcohol is a prime culprit, as are caffeinated drinks, including coffee, soda, and tea. The carbonation in soda and sparkling water may add to gas pain symptoms. 

Your relationship with fiber

Many of the most nutritious foods are also high in fiber, usually an excellent addition to any healthy eating plan. UC alters the relationship with fiber, however. Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and whole grains may make your flare-ups worse. 

Corn (including popcorn), nuts, and seeds are foods you can try to eliminate to see if symptoms improve. If raw fruits and vegetables continue to aggravate your symptoms, try using cooked versions since their nutritional value is significant. Cooking these may make their fiber content easier to digest. 

The role of stress

As with other health conditions, stress won’t cause UC, but it can aggravate your symptoms by changing your body chemistry. Look for enjoyable exercises, like biking, walking, or swimming, to help cope with stress and ease tension that may trigger UC symptoms. 

When you need additional help with your UC condition, contact us at Gastroenterology & Nutrition of Central Florida. Call or click to plan your visit today.