Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are classified as inflammatory diseases that affect the bowel. In ulcerative colitis, the colon and rectum are primarily affected. Ulcerative colitis symptoms are chronic inflammation of the bowel and ulcers that occur in the lining of the large intestine. Ulcerative colitis is limited to the colon, but Crohn’s affects any part of the digestive tract between the mouth and the anus. The symptoms can include fever, bloody stools, abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and dehydration. There is no known cure for either Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The best way to manage both diseases is to avoid the following foods that can trigger colitis:
1. Carbonated beverages
Carbonated drinks contain carbonic acid, which is highly irritative to the digestive tract. In addition, most carbonated drinks contain caffeine which can also add to the irritation as well as cause pain and cramping. Another reason why carbonated drinks may trigger a colitis flare-up is any sugar or sugar alcohols that may be part of the drink’s formula.
2. Caffeine
Caffeine is found in many beverage options like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and energy drinks. The caffeine irritates and stimulates the passage of waste through the intestines causing cramps and pain. Consuming beverages with caffeine can trigger an ulcerative colitis flare-up, so it’s best to avoid caffeine.
3. Corn
It might not seem like it would be bad for you since it’s a vegetable that most people see as a healthy food option. But for people with ulcerative colitis, it can be dangerous. The problem with it is that even though we think we chew it well, it travels through the digestive tract mostly in its whole and intact, and that can irritate the digestive tract causing a flare-up.
4. Dairy products
Although it’s not always the case, there is a high incidence of people who suffer from ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s that are lactose intolerant. People who are lactose intolerant don’t produce an enzyme called lactase and can’t digest the lactose (sugar) included in milk and other dairy products. Lactose can lead to severe irritation of the intestines, which leads to gas, bloating, cramps, and pain.
5. Red meat and Processed Meats
While meat is a staple for most people’s diets, meat, especially meat that is high in fat, can trigger ulcerative colitis symptoms. Not only can red meat be high in sulfate, which triggers gas, during a flare up excess fat may not be properly absorbed, which makes symptoms worse. It is recommended to limit red meat and processed meats while suffering from ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
