Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease. It can cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Mainly affecting the large intestine and the rectum, it can also increase a sufferers risk of developing certain types of intestinal cancer. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include, but are not limited to: rectal bleeding, bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, leaking of stool, inability to empty bowels, and an urgent need to defecate. In this article we will discuss foods to avoid ulcerative colitis. We’ll also briefly mention foods to eat with ulcerative colitis.

1. Alcohol
Alcohol can stimulate the colon which, in turn, can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can cause immediate flare ups in those suffering from ulcerative colitis.

2. Caffeine
Like alcohol, caffeine is a stimulant which can speed up the time food is being spent in the colon. This can send undigested food into your intestinal tract causing pain and discomfort.

3. Carbonated drinks
Carbonation can severely irritate the digestive tract. It can also cause gas and bloating.

4. Peas and beans
With a very high fiber content, these can increase the number of bowel movements you may have. They can also cause abdominal cramps, gas and bloating.

5. Berries and pulp containing fruits
This is another food that is extremely high in fiber content that should be avoided if possible.

6. Dairy
Many who suffer from ulcerative colitis can also be lactose intolerant. When this is the case it’s best to avoid dairy because it can cause side effects such as bloating and gas that can mimic and worsen ulcerative colitis symptoms already being experienced.

7. Nuts and seeds
Not only are nuts and seeds high in fiber, they are also very hard on our digestive tracts because they are so hard to digest. This, in turn, can cause an ulcerative colitis flare up.

8. Popcorn
Popcorn, like seeds and nuts, are very hard to digest. It’s best to avoid popcorn all together because it can trigger a UC flare up just like seeds and nuts.

9. Potatoes
Potatoes contain glycoalkaloids. These can disturb the cell membrane of the gut causing abdominal pain and cramping.

10. Spicy foods
Spicy foods can cause diarrhea and do so in many people. This can cause or worsen an ulcerative colitis flare up.

This is, by all means, not a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. These are just some of the main culprits. Some foods to consider eating to help you with your ulcerative colitis include: applesauce, salmon, squash, avocados, yogurt, oatmeal with no added flavors, refined grains, eggs, and plenty of water. Also, consider talking to your doctor about adding an Omega-3 supplement to your diet.