During flare-ups of ulcerative colitis, it is important to follow a diet that is low in fiber, sugar, and fat. Easier-to-digest foods include peeled and cooked fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, root vegetables, and refined grains.
It is also essential to avoid foods high in sugar, alcohol, and caffeine, as they can worsen symptoms.
Since there is no single ulcerative colitis diet that works for everyone, it is best to consult a nutritionist for an individualized plan based on health status and symptom tolerance.
Recommended foods during flare-ups
The following foods are recommended during an ulcerative colitis flare-up:
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Shredded or ground lean proteins, such as fish, tofu, eggs, skinless chicken breast, and turkey
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Cooked root vegetables or purees, such as potatoes, cassava, yams, taro, parsnips, and sweet potatoes
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Low-fiber grains, such as white rice, tapioca, rice cakes, white pasta, and white bread
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Low-fat dairy, such as skim milk, low-fat yogurt, and fresh white cheeses
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Cooked or mashed fruits without skin, seeds, or pulp, such as banana, papaya, apple, pear, peach, and melon
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Peeled and cooked vegetables in purees or soups, such as pumpkin, carrot, eggplant, chayote, and zucchini
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Healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocado oil, and flaxseed oil
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Fresh herbs, such as parsley, oregano, rosemary, cilantro, and basil
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Beverages like water, herbal teas, and coconut water
It is recommended to eat 5 to 6 small meals daily, chewing food well to support digestion and reduce symptoms.
Cooking methods should include steaming, stewing, baking, or grilling, while avoiding fried foods and heavy sauces.
Keeping a food diary can also help identify which foods are well tolerated and which may worsen symptoms.
Foods to avoid
During an ulcerative colitis flare-up, it is important to avoid:
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Fried and fatty foods, such as margarine, cream, butter, fried snacks, and French fries
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Caffeinated drinks and foods, such as coffee, green tea, black tea, mate tea, cola sodas, and chocolate
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High-fiber grains, such as seeds, popcorn, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and whole-grain bread
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Sweets and desserts, such as sugar, honey, ice cream, jam, cake, soda, and mousse
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Processed meats, such as sausage, ham, mortadella, turkey breast, salami, and bacon
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Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, and beans
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Raw fruits and vegetables with skin, seeds, or pulp
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Seeds and nuts, such as flaxseed, sesame, peanuts, walnuts, and almonds
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Ultra-processed foods, such as cookies, instant noodles, frozen meals like lasagna and pizza, and fast food
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Certain seasonings, such as chili peppers, hot sauces, curry, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, ketchup, mayonnaise, and salad dressings
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Alcoholic beverages, such as beer, liquor, sparkling wine, and wine
Some people with ulcerative colitis may also have lactose intolerance. In these cases, it is important to avoid milk, yogurt, butter, cream, and ice cream.
A nutritionist may also recommend a low-FODMAP diet, which limits foods high in fructose, lactose, oligosaccharides, and sugar alcohols, to help relieve symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, and diarrhea.
Example 3-day ulcerative colitis diet plan
The table below provides an example of a 3-day ulcerative colitis diet during flare-ups:
This plan is only an example. Portion sizes and food choices may vary based on individual tolerance and nutritional needs. A nutritionist should be consulted for a personalized diet plan.
Foods to reintroduce after flare-ups
When symptoms improve, it is important to gradually reintroduce a variety of foods to support balanced nutrition:
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Whole grains, such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and whole-grain bread
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Fruits with skin and pulp, when tolerated, such as apple, pear, orange, and plum
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Raw or cooked vegetables with skin, such as cucumber, lettuce, arugula, zucchini, and watercress
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Seeds, such as flaxseed, sesame, pumpkin seeds, and chia
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Legumes, such as beans, chickpeas, and lentils
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Nuts, such as walnuts, peanuts, cashews, and almonds
Probiotic foods like yogurt, kombucha, and kefir may also be helpful, as people with ulcerative colitis may experience imbalances in gut bacteria.
Insoluble fiber should be reintroduced gradually, according to individual tolerance, with guidance from a nutritionist to avoid discomfort or triggering symptoms.
Supplements for ulcerative colitis
Certain supplements may be recommended during treatment to prevent deficiencies and weight loss. These include:
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Vitamin D
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Calcium
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Folic acid
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Iron
Probiotic supplements may also be considered, although effects vary depending on the type used and individual response.
Omega-3 supplements can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Glutamine supplements (L-glutamine or D-glutamine) may also be recommended to promote intestinal healing.
All supplements should only be taken under medical or nutritional guidance, as they need to be adjusted to each person’s health condition.