Ulcerative Colitis

The right diet is the key to managing many diseases and to improving general quality of life. For this condition, scientific research has found benefit in the following healthy eating tips.

• Elimination Diet

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  Avoiding allergenic foods often reduces the severity of ulcerative colitis. Work with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to find out your sensitivities.

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  Elimination Diet

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  More than a half-century ago, several doctors reported that food allergies play an important role in some cases of UC.^48,49 Since that time, many doctors have observed that avoidance of allergenic foods will often reduce the severity of UC and can sometimes completely control the condition. In other old studies, milk has been reported to trigger UC,⁵⁰ and people with UC were found to have antibodies to milk in their blood, a possible sign of allergy.⁵¹ Today the relationship between food allergies and UC remains controversial⁵² and is not generally accepted by the conventional medical community. People who wish to explore the possibility that food sensitivities may trigger their symptoms may wish to consult with an appropriate healthcare provider.

• Saturated and Hydrogenated Fats

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  To reduce your risk, forego fast food and other sources of excessive animal fats and margarine.

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  Saturated and Hydrogenated Fats

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  In two studies, people with a high intake of animal fat, cholesterol, or margarine had a significantly increased risk of UC, compared with people who consumed less of these fats.^53,54 Although these associations do not prove cause-and-effect, reducing one’s intake of animal fats and margarine is a means of improving overall health and possibly UC as well.

  There is preliminary evidence that people who eat fast food at least twice a week have nearly four times the risk of developing UC than people who do not eat fast food.⁵⁵

• Sprouted Barley

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  In a preliminary study, people with ulcerative colitis experienced significant improvement after taking 30 grams per day of a germinated barley product for four weeks.

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  Sprouted Barley

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  In a preliminary study, 39 patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis experienced significant improvement after receiving 30 grams (about 1 oz) per day of a germinated barley product for four weeks.⁵⁶ Controlled trials are needed to confirm this report.

• Low-Sugar

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  Some studies have shown that high sugar intake is associated with an increased ulcerative colitis risk.

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  Low-Sugar

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  Some studies have shown that high sugar intake is associated with an increase in risk for UC.^57,58 Other research has failed to find any association between UC and sugar intake.^59,60 Until more is known, persons with inflammatory bowel diseases, including UC, should consider limiting their intake of sugar.