Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease resulting in appetite loss, diarrhea, and intense abdominal discomfort. This condition is not caused by certain foods, but trigger foods may prompt and worsen the condition. Ulcerative colitis condition leads to inflammation in the large intestine linings. The exact cause of this disease is unknown, but doctors advise against avoiding certain foods to make the condition manageable. The following are some of the foods that trigger ulcerative colitis:

1. Corn
As you chew-corn, some of the corn-kernels mistakenly pass through, slowing the digestion process. This can lead to diarrhea and contribute to GI irritation in those battling Ulcerative Colitis. Therefore, it is recommended to ingest foods that do not irritate the intestinal linings and are easy to digest compared to corn-which contains fiber content and gives the digestive system a hard time during the digestion process. However, it is okay to take-corn once the colon has been subjected to proper treatment and has properly healed.

2. Carbonated beverages
Some patients experience gas or bloating after taking fizzy drinks, which contributes to restlessness and abdominal discomfort. In addition, most carbonated-drinks contain caffeine which worsens diarrhea by stimulating the intestines. Moreover, carbonated-beverages can also lead to obesity and put one at risk of getting heart disease, among other health problems. A higher intake of sugary drinks also increases the risk of developing Crohn’s disease because of the artificial sweetener in them. Herbal iced teas and fruit-infused water are better alternatives if you need refreshing beverages.

3. Butter or margarine
Maintaining a low-fat diet reduces colitis symptoms and minimizes the disease’s risks. During the digestive process, linoleic acid changes and results in inflammation, which triggers ulcerative colitis. A low-fat diet reduces the severity of flares and the risks of contracting ulcerative colitis. Other types of fatty foods to avoid include cream, fried foods, and vegetable oils.

4. Coffee or caffeine
Caffeine stimulants boost alertness and energy levels, and it potentially triggers diarrhea in individuals suffering from ulcerative colitis. On the other hand, coffee leads to contractions in the digestive tract hence accelerating the elimination of its contents due to caffeine content. Diarrhea is a common symptom in people suffering from Ulcerative Colitis, and it is advisable to stay away from foods that cause bowel movements. The condition can also be due to chemical compounds like acids and polyphenols present in coffee.

5. Dairy products
Dairy-products are not a cause for concern for all people diagnosed with ulcerative Colitis, although it triggers symptoms in other individuals because of the lactose content present in them. Lactose intolerance prevents the proper digestion of lactose, which are sugars found in dairy-products such as milk, because the ileum lacks the special enzyme lactase useful in digestion. Lactose intolerance causes symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain, and it is best to stay away from dairy-products or introduce the body to lactase supplements to suppress symptoms.

Living with colitis and crohn’s disease can be much more manageable and comfortable once you master the foods that make you feel worse and those that improve your health. Those diagnosed with ulcerative colitis should change their lifestyle and adapt to a healthier one so that the body is introduced only to the essential nutrients. You should also limit your meal size to give the body enough time for digestion.