Ulcerative colitis is a type of IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) that affects the digestive system by causing inflammation and sores. With at least 1 million people suffering from it, it is one of the most common diseases in our country. While the disease can be easily managed with various treatments, lifestyle changes like changes in food can expedite the recovery process. The following are some foods to avoid to keep ulcerative colitis symptoms at bay.

1. Uncooked fruits and vegetables
While uncooked or raw fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of nutrients, they can cause flare-ups in the case of ulcerative colitis. This is because raw fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, which can make them difficult to process for a weak digestive system. The inability of the digestive system to break down high amounts of fiber can result in bloody stools. So, people with ulcerative colitis are recommended to cook, boil, mash fruits and vegetables, and remove their skin and seeds before consuming it, as this helps break down and digest fiber easily.

2. Whole-grain foods
Foods such as breads, noodles, pastas, brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, oats, and wild rice, etc. are made from whole grains. These are high in fiber since the whole grains do not have their germ or bran removed. Consuming the same can flare-up a case of ulcerative colitis. Switch to “enriched” white flour or other forms of cereals like puffed rice, cream of wheat, and corn flakes. The condition can also be better managed with well-cooked white rice.

3. Sugar substitutes
These are also sometimes referred to as sugar alcohols. Sugar alcohols like mannitol and xylitol can cause diarrhea, thereby aggravating ulcerative colitis. These are found in food products like candies, desserts, sugarless gums, and even soft drinks. Sugar alcohols are also found in cough syrups and other over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to consult the doctor regarding the medication’s ingredients and switch to healthier sugar substitutes made from fruits.

4. Foods rich in sulfur
It has been observed that at least 90 percent of people with ulcerative colitis produce hydrogen sulfide rather than the usual methane gas. Foods such as beef, ham, chicken, duck, turkey, heart, liver, shrimps, scallops, mussels, soybeans, black beans, split beans, white beans, cruciferous vegetables, eggs, dried fruits, cheese, and poultry are rich in sulfur. The bacteria causing ulcerative colitis feeds on this chemical and aggravates the same. Hence it is necessary to switch to foods that do not contain sulfur.

5. Seeds and nuts
In the list of foods to avoid with ulcerative colitis, seeds and nuts like chestnuts, hazelnuts, chia seeds, and acorns are also high in fiber and calories, which can make it difficult to digest. This can flare up the symptoms, making it tough to manage the disease. These can also be replaced with low-fiber nuts and seeds like pumpkin, sunflower, flaxseeds, almonds, and cashews. However, the same must be consumed in moderation only after consulting a doctor.