Ulcerative colitis is a long term condition that creates inflammation in the colon. SImilar to Crohn’s disease, it is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Ulcers can form on the lining of the colon in severe cases. These ulcers are painful, may bleed, and produce pus and mucus. Just as there are foods that worsen ulcerative colitis, there are certain foods that help to manage the symptoms of colitis and soothe the flares.

The following foods should be included in one’s diet to manage ulcerative colitis:

1. Foods rich in Omega-3
Foods that contain Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and tuna reduce inflammation and helps to stay in remission. Fish like mackerel, sardine, herring, seeds, and nuts like flaxseeds and walnuts are rich in Omega-3. Some might find it difficult to have whole nuts and seeds during a flare, as they cannot be digested and tend to irritate the bowels. In such cases, they can be ground up and had as a soft butter or paste.

2. Lean meat and poultry
Lean meat and poultry are recommended as they are rich in protein and low in fat content. They can provide required nutrition that’s lost due to colitis flares. Baking or grilling meat and chicken would be a better option than frying. Eggs are rich in protein and are tolerated better even if the person is undergoing flares. Eggs are fortified with omega-3 fatty acids and help reduce inflammation.

3. Soy-based proteins
Vegetarians can substitute animal protein with soy-based proteins and cooked legumes. Low-fat milk and soy milk do not worsen the condition and are easily digested.

4. Food rich in probiotics
Probiotics are found in foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, buttermilk, green tea, gherkins, and soybean products like tempeh, miso, and natto. They are beneficial bacteria or yeasts that are good for the digestive system. They help in easy digestion and prevent diarrhea.

5. Refined oatmeal and grains
Food like refined cereal, or instant oatmeal, contains refined grains and is more acceptable and smoothing to the intestines due to its low fiber content. Refined rice or white rice is a better choice than whole grains when treating the symptoms of colitis.

6. Cooked and ground vegetables
Cooked squash is also a good choice. It has vitamin C and beta-carotene. It is tolerated well during an ulcerative colitis flare. However, raw squash may aggravate the symptoms. Well-cooked vegetables without their seeds are good as they are easily digested. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and cucumbers are found to be well tolerated.

7. Juices and smoothies and bland sauces
Juices and smoothies too may be tolerated well and provide the nutrition required. Carrot juice is found to be easy on the intestines and it has plenty of Vitamin A and antioxidants.

8. Ripe, peeled fruits
Some varieties of ripe bananas also soothe the symptoms by aiding digestion. Peeled melons and apples are also tolerated well. Avocados are easily digested and are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. Unsweetened apple sauce is good to have after a colitis flare, though it may not be suitable for some during a flare-up.

Generally, the foods that help when a person is going through the symptoms of ulcerative colitis have to be non-spicy, bland, cooked, or mashed and low-fat food that can be easily digested. The food consumed during such an attack should soothe the intestines as well as provide nutrients.