While there are many factors that contribute to Ulcerative Colitis, it is a disease that can be managed naturally instead of treated. There are natural treatments for ulcerative colitis out there and one of them is diet. Diet is one of the factors contributing to the severity of this disease and must be managed. While it is not the only thing that needs to be monitored by those suffering from this ailment, it is certainly an important factor to consider. Certain foods can exacerbate the problem, making it important to monitor a proper diet for Ulcerative Colitis sufferers.
One the issues that people suffering from Ulcerative Colitis face is managing their fiber intake. While soluble fiber is good for them, insoluble fiber is bad since it irritates the colon and causes inflammation. This includes all whole grain foods, as well as vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. Other foods to avoid include skins of fruits like grapes and apples since these are entirely insoluble fiber.
Another food group to avoid is anything containing gluten. All breads, grains, and most processed foods include gluten and must be avoided. Most processed foods have thickening agents which contain gluten, so seasonings, sauces and canned goods cannot be eaten by those suffering from Ulcerative Colitis. People suffering from this disease can easily avoid gluten by cooking at home from scratch, using fresh produce, but there are many gluten-free products available in the market as well. Some beverages, like beer and packaged drinks, also contain gluten which is why labels should be read carefully.
Dairy can also cause trouble in the digestive tract, but only in large quantities. Anything over two to three ounces per day will cause inflammation which will lead to lactose in the colon. Therefore, it is not necessary to completely avoid dairy, but its intake must be monitored closely. The amount suitable for each person can vary as well.
Since everyone's body is different and reacts to various foods differently, the best thing to do is monitor food intake and watch how the body reacts. Some foods, like caffeine, are fine for some people but others might find them difficult to digest thus causing them distress. Write down foods that have caused you stomach distress in the past and avoid them in the future. The best way to do this is to keep a food journal so you can write down how various foods make you feel, and after a while you will be able to make educated choices without looking at the diary every time you eat.
While Ulcerative Colitis can be a distressing condition, it is one that can be managed with proper care. It is important to monitor food intake closely, best done with a food journal, and cook from fresh produce at home. More and more, it is becoming easier to eat out since many restaurant and companies offer gluten- free options, including some bakeries. Conduct research on the options available around you and incorporate them into your lifestyle so you can ensure you live the most normal life possible for you.
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