Colitis diet
Although experts generally agree on the fact that ulcerative colitis is not caused by diet, two studies of case-control have detected an association between consumption of certain foods and risk of being affected with colitis.
- A Swedish study has painted a portrait of Nutrition of 145 people suffering from ulcerative colitis, 154 suffering from Crohn's disease and 305 controls for five years. The authors observed that the risk of colitis was four times higher among people who ate fast food at least twice a week.
- In a Dutch study, there was an increased risk of colitis with consumption of chocolate and cola drinks. The study groups included 290 people with Crohn's disease, 398 ulcerative colitis and 616 controls.
Prevention of ulcerative colitis
Since the cause of ulcerative colitis remains unknown, it is impossible to prevent its occurrence.
Measures to prevent colitis complications
It is recommended that people with inflammatory bowel disease for eight years or more to make an appointment with their gastroenterologist annually. Various tests are available to quickly detect abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract, including colon cancer.
When the colitis occurs:
- Do not take food and drinks that aggravate your symptoms. These foods can vary from person to person, but generally, avoid spicy foods, alcohol, certain vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, beans) and foods and beverages that contain caffeine. These tend to cause bloating.
- Pay special attention to milk and certain milk products, which trigger diarrhea, pain and flatulence in some people.
- Limit consumption of dietary fiber. Although dietary fiber is an important component of a healthy diet, it often worsen the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Consume preferably fruits and vegetables cooked rather than raw.
- Eat several small meals throughout the day rather than two or three hearty.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid carbonated beverages, alcoholic beverages and those containing caffeine.
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