Diets for ulcerative colitis are controversial, to say the least. Some health authorities say that diet is not really important. Most individuals who suffer from this painful and debilitating condition feel that they can identify certain foods that trigger their worst attacks. Natural approaches to controlling the symptoms of UC place a lot of emphasis on food and dietary supplements.

Those who have UC experience real problems wit their digestive tract, specifically with the large intestine (which includes the colon). They suffer severe cramping, frequent diarrhea, and periodic blood in their stool. Irritable bowel syndrome is a similar but less severe condition, with a stronger relation to what has been eaten. Although UC sufferers think they can identify trigger foods, they also may have attacks even when they are eating carefully and following their doctor’s recommendations.

UC is an inflammatory and perhaps auto-immune disease which can be treated with prescription drugs. The chronic diarrhea can cause additional problems, such as dehydration (which can kill you) and anemia. Often food is not digested properly or retained long enough for your body to get the nutrients needed to sustain life. This is why natural healers recommend supplements of beneficial bacteria, vitamins, and minerals along with a diet tailored to your specific needs.

As far as what to eat is concerned, it is just as important to know what not to eat. First of all, you should learn what foods cause you problems – and avoid them. Everyone has their own particular allergies and sensitivities, so you are your own best counsel in determining your trigger foods.

The foods that most sufferers have identified as problem causers are coffee and colas that contain caffeine, carbonated beverages, refined flour and sugar products, and high-fiber grains and vegetables, especially when consumed raw. Whole seeds can also be triggers.

As far as what you should eat goes, you will want to look for nutritionally-dense foods that are easy to digest. You can try plain yogurt containing live cultures, or other soured dairy products like kefir. If you are lactose-intolerant, even cultured dairy products will trigger symptoms. Sourdough breads or sprouted-flour products are easier to digest than conventional baked goods. Colorful fruits and vegetables are good, even if you must lightly steam them or juice them to remove or modify the fiber they contain. Lean meat, fish, and eggs contribute necessary protein.

Watch out for hydrogenated vegetable oils such as those found in cooking and salad oils, margarine, and many packaged food products. Healthful fats and oils should be consumed, such as extra virgin olive oil, cold-pressed nut and seed oils, organic butter and ghee, and fish oils. It is best to choose whole foods and combine them for meals rather than depending on prepared foods.

If you read enough about diets for ulcerative colitis, you will be able to establish your own meal plans and take control of your own health. Probably no one else will be able to do this for you.

You can get more information about the best diets for ulcerative colitis and a brief summary of the things to consider before choosing a diet plan at http://dietsforulcerativecolitis.com now.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 7th, 2012 at 9:13 am and is filed under health. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.