Ulcerative colitis, also known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon and rectum.

Diet plays an important role in the management of ulcerative colitis, as certain foods can trigger flare-ups and exacerbate symptoms. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you manage your diet and live with ulcerative colitis:.

Do: Stick to Easily Digestible Foods

When you have ulcerative colitis, your digestive system is already compromised, so it’s important to choose foods that are easy to digest. Some good options include:.

White rice
Bananas
Boiled potatoes
Bland crackers
Lean protein (chicken, fish, eggs)
Cooked vegetables (carrots, green beans, zucchini)

Don’t: Eat High-Fiber Foods

Foods that are high in fiber can be difficult to digest and can irritate the lining of the colon, leading to flare-ups and symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Avoid these foods when you have ulcerative colitis:.

Whole grains (bread, pasta, cereal)
Nuts and seeds
Raw fruits and vegetables
Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
Bran

Do: Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can make your symptoms worse and can even lead to more serious complications. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially water, to keep your body hydrated.

Avoid sugary beverages and alcohol, as they can also exacerbate symptoms.

Don’t: Consume Trigger Foods

Certain foods can trigger flare-ups and worsen your symptoms. It’s important to identify which foods are your triggers and avoid them as much as possible. Common trigger foods for people with ulcerative colitis include:.

Spicy foods
Fatty or greasy foods
Dairy products
Caffeine
Alcohol
Artificial sweeteners

Do: Cook Your Food Thoroughly

When you have ulcerative colitis, it’s important to avoid foodborne illnesses, which can cause further inflammation and make your symptoms worse. Make sure you cook your food thoroughly and avoid raw or undercooked meats, seafood, and eggs.

Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.

Don’t: Eat Late at Night

Eating late at night can disrupt your digestion and cause symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux. Try to eat your last meal at least two to three hours before bedtime to give your body enough time to digest before you lie down.

Do: Keep a Food Diary

Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods trigger your symptoms and which foods are safe for you to eat. Write down everything you eat and drink, as well as any symptoms you experience.

Over time, you may be able to identify patterns and make adjustments to your diet accordingly.

Don’t: Skip Meals

Skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar, which can worsen your symptoms. Make sure you eat regular meals throughout the day, and consider smaller, more frequent meals if you have trouble digesting larger meals.

Do: Discuss a Low-FODMAP Diet with Your Doctor

A low-FODMAP diet is a type of diet that is low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs). These are types of carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest and can cause symptoms in people with IBD.

Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to see if a low-FODMAP diet is right for you.