Ulcerative Colitis Diet: Foods You Must Eat

Ulcerative colitis is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It causes inflammation and ulcers-which are sores-in the lining of the large intestines [or colon] and rectum. These afflicted areas are red and swollen. The ulcers form when inflammation kills the cells in the lining. It is also characterized with pus and bleeding. At times, the patient may also experience diarrhea as among its symptoms. Men and women are at risk to such disease. It is more likely to occur in teens and young adults than in individuals at age 50 and above.

There are many factors that can cause Ulcerative Colitis. Experts say it may be caused by a combination of few factors like the environment, genes, and weak immune system. There is also no established connection between foods and Ulcerative Colitis because there have been very few studies done. The reason for this is because studies are only conducted if they show a profit motive, such as treating UC with drugs.

Nonetheless, patients should monitor their diet closely. Foods that may trigger the symptoms or worsen the condition must be avoided. In addition, foods for Ulcerative Colitis should be healthy and balanced.

The immune system plays a crucial role in the body's natural defense against disease-causing bacteria. For good health, the immune system should be strong. Foods that are rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fiber are among the best choices.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of these nutrients. Fruits to include in daily diet are oranges, grapefruit, grapes, blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, apples, and bananas. They contain high amounts of vitamin C to strengthen the immune system, and antioxidants and phytonutrients to fight off free radicals and other toxins.

Meanwhile, leafy vegetables provide fiber to aid in digestion. Some of these are lettuce, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli, to name a few. But, be careful with cabbage because it has been known to give many people with IBD problems. Nuts such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, macadamia, and Brazilian nuts contain antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium, phytonutrients, and fiber. They are also good for the heart, and provide plant-based protein.

Organic fruits and vegetables have become more popular today because of how they are cultivated. Unlike the traditional and commercial fruits and vegetables, the organic produce does not use any artificial chemicals for pesticides and fertilizers. Experts claim that the nutrients in organic food are found to be 50% higher. The best thing about organic foods is the absence of harmful chemicals and toxins which can be detrimental to the health.

Besides fruits and vegetables, meats and other livestock food products like eggs can also be organic. This means that they are not fed with commercialized feeds. Rather, they are fed with natural foods. Organic chicken is one of the highest quality sources of protein around. In preparing chicken, it is best not to include its skin due to high fat content.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential unsaturated fatty acids found in flaxseed oil and algal oil and in fish oils. These essential acids are good in reducing the inflammation in patients with Ulcerative Colitis or IBD.

Part of a healthy diet is the fluid consumption. Water is efficient in removing harmful bacteria, toxins, and free radicals. Fresh fruit juices are also recommended.