8 food items to eat during an Ulcerative Colitis Flare


An inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD) called ulcerative colitis damages your digestive system by inflaming it and causing ulcers (sores) on the inner lining of large intestine. In the US, between 600,000 and 900,000 people suffer with ulcerative colitis. Gradually getting worse over time, ulcerative colitis might start. It might, however, also begin abruptly. The severity of the symptoms can vary. The majority of patients experience periods of remission—when symptoms disappear—in between flare-ups, when they experience symptoms. Weeks to years may pass between remission periods. Maintaining long-term remission is the aim of treatment.

Ulcerative Colitis has different Causes and Symptoms and hence can be differentiated accordingly as discussed −

Causes

  • If you are between the ages of 15 and 30 or older than 60, the likelihood increases.

  • Jewish persons of Ashkenazi origin are more at risk.

  • Having a close relative with the illness may increase your risk by up to 30%.

  • Immunological dysfunction is one potential factor.

Symptoms

  • Not being able to despite need

  • Cramps and discomfort in the abdomen

  • Frequently bloody or pustular diarrhoea

  • Rectal bleeding

  • Looking at a bright light might cause eye pain.

  • Feeling as though your intestines hasn't been fully emptied after using the restroom

  • Canker sores

  • Fever

  • Blood clots in the veins and arteries are more likely to form.

Ulcerative Colitis Types

  • Ulcerative proctitis

  • Proctosigmoiditis

  • Colitis on left side

  • Pancolitis

  • Severe Acute ulcerative colitis

Eating 8 Types of Food

  • Scoop Up Some Applesauce − Although apples are a good source of vitamins and minerals, their high fibre level can make them difficult to digest, especially when having an attack. For an ulcerative colitis diet, applesauce might be a viable substitute. Purchase unsweetened applesauce or prepare your own by chopping, peeling, and boiling apples (remember to remove the seeds). Make up your own spice blend to flavour it, but make sure to omit the sugar.

  • Definitely Eat Yogurt − Probiotics are found in yoghurt and different other fermented type foods including , sauerkraut, miso and kefir. Probiotics are good microorganisms that your gut needs to grow. They reside in your digestive tract and support healthy digestion, immune system development, and bacterial eradication, all of which are helpful for treating ulcerative colitis. Yogurt is a fantastic source of calcium, which is crucial for the development of strong bones. (Those with ulcerative colitis are more likely to develop osteoporosis than those who are healthy.) Observe the sugar content as well: Your best option is plain yoghurt without added sugar.

  • Take a bite of Squash − Different squashes like Acorn, spaghetti, zucchini and butternut are all healthy options since they are rich in fibre and the antioxidants beta-carotene and vitamin C. Antioxidants aid in the healing of the harm caused by inflammation, while fibre helps maintain a healthy gut flora. People having ulcerative colitis tolerate squash well, as it is quite adaptable: You can even enjoy winter squash by roasting them and then mash the flesh for a purée and use it in soups. Use the strands of shredded cooked spaghetti squash in place of noodles or create them with a vegetable spiralizer. Eating more squash can help you make sure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs.

  • Take an Interest in Eggs − Add eggs to your diet if you're having difficulties acquiring enough nutrients. Eggs are a pliable food and a superior protein source. They are also simple to digest, which is advantageous for those who suffer from ulcerative colitis. For even more nutritional advantages, look for omega-3 based fatty acids enriched eggs. Additionally, eggs are a good source of selenium, an antioxidant, and B vitamins, which help turn food into energy. For a quick, high-protein snack on the road, try scrambling them, adding them to an omelette with vegetables, or hard-boiling them.

  • Fruit juice, water and diet drinks − It's crucial to replace any fluids you lose due to the frequent diarrhoea that happens during an ulcerative colitis flare. Each symptom you experience when you're dehydrated is intensified, claims Nandi. He claims that sports drinks mixed 1:1 with water can assist in replenishing lost carbohydrates and electrolytes. No-pulp fruit juice is an additional choice; however, prune juice should be avoided due to its high fibre level. Working with a registered dietitian nutritionist to create a customised food plan is crucial for patients with ulcerative colitis. Since everybody tolerates food differently, this can help establish precise calorie and nutritional targets.

  • Decide on instant oatmeal −. A speedy and filling lunch or snack is made with instant oatmeal. Patients with ulcerative colitis may typically easily digest this type of grain. Because it’s a little more refined than steel-cut oats, it has less fibre, making it a decent option when symptoms are acting up. Choose plain or low-sugar types, and if necessary, add a dash of cinnamon or fruit puree to make it sweeter.

  • Salmon to Alleviate Pain − Omega-3 fatty acids are a fantastic approach to help lessen the unsettling inflammation that manifests in ulcerative colitis. Salmon is a great source and is abundant in these crucial fatty acids. Salmon is not only high in anti-inflammatory compounds, but it is also a great source of protein, which the body needs to mend itself. Other improving data of omega-3s are walnuts, flaxseed oil, ground flaxseed, and albacore tuna.

  • Turmeric-rice − When your ulcerative colitis flares, you might want to stick with bland foods like cooked white rice if you can't abide most things. Try sprinkling it with turmeric, a yellow spice whose main component, curcumin, has shown some promise in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, if you want to enhance flavour. Combining curcumin with an anti-inflammatory is more effective than doing so alone for treating ulcerative colitis. India, where inflammatory bowel disease is less common than in the US or Europe, uses turmeric extensively.

Updated on: 30-Jan-2023

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