Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease of the large intestine that is chronic. The colon is part of the body’s digestive system—a system where waste material is stored. Those who have ulcerative colitis have symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. It is not known what causes ulcerative colitis; however, some feel that this condition is inherited and that one’s diet has something to do with getting and treating the disease. There are some nutritionists who feel that eating a healthy diet can help lessen the effects of this disease. In addition, there are certain foods that one should avoid if they have ulcerative colitis. Fiber is good for the body but for those who have this condition, fiber should be limited to 2 grams per serving. Also, for those who suffer from this condition, they should not eat raw fruits, except for melons and bananas. When wanting to eat vegetables, you need to cut the vegetables with the edge of a fork. Vegetables should be cooked thoroughly before eating. In addition, spices, sweets and fats should be avoided. They make this condition worse. Also, chocolate and artificial sweeteners can aggravate ulcerative colitis. Proteins are often helpful with this condition. Good sources of protein are peanut butter, soy, poultry and eggs. It is important with this condition to drink plenty of fluids; however, there are some fluids that can cause problems and should be avoided such as caffeine, juices with added sugar, soft drinks with sugar or caffeine, milk and alcohol. Water works the best and is pure. Because this condition can bring on a deficiency in nutrition, you may want to consider nutritional supplements such as folic acid, probiotics such as yogurt, vitamin D and calcium supplements and Omega-3 fatty acids. Some have found that having ulcerative colitis may cause one’s calcium levels in their blood to be lowered due to blood loss; therefore, one may need to increase their calcium. Of course, before taking any dietary supplement, a physician should be consulted. Some who have this condition may want to consider surgery to have their colons removed due to the loss of blood. However, before considering surgery, medical treatment should be tried, as well as being careful with one’s ... Read More