Although there is no known cure for ulcerative colitis, you can improve your condition by making some changes to your diet. Diarrhea, cramping, abdominal pain, rectal pain, fatigue, and fever are some of the common symptoms of this gastrointestinal problem. Foods cannot cure the condition, but it can definitely minimize the flare-ups. Here are 5 foods to avoid and 5 to eat in ulcerative colitis.

Foods to eat

• Oatmeal
  A high fiber diet is good for almost any stomach related issue as it helps in a smooth bowel movement. But in case of ulcerative colitis, when you are experiencing flare ups, a high fiber diet can result in diarrhea. Remember that you need to get your dietary carbohydrates to maintain your energy balance, so eating oatmeal can protect you from flare ups.
• Bananas, melons, blueberries, strawberries, oranges, and grapes
  Enriched with the goodness of vitamins and antioxidants, these fruits are known for producing lesser gas in the system, unlike many fruits rich in fructose. Include these fruits in your snacks or salad or eat them on the go.
• Colorful vegetables
  The symptoms such as diarrhea, pain, fatigue, and fever can cause malnutrition in the body. So, include foods rich in micro and macro nutrients to combat this issue. Colorful veggies and fruits ensure that your nutrient intake is right on track.
• Prebiotics
  These are the foods that might not be easy to digest but are definitely good for your gut health. They help in the production of good bacteria in your stomach.
• Olive oil and olives
  Biophenols found in olive fruits and leaves are one of the most abundant sources of antioxidants in one’s diet. Include these food items in your diet for a lower cholesterol, higher energy level, and healthier gut.

Foods to avoid

• Red meat
  Red meats are high in sulfate and can triggers ulcerative colitis symptoms. People with this condition should avoid eating meat.
• Spicy food
  There are certain dishes, diets, and ingredients that can cause flare ups if one is suffering from ulcerative colitis. The ingredient capsaicin present in hot peppers is known to increase the bowel movement and leads to diarrhea or other upset stomach symptoms.
• Refined sugar
  Refined sugars are little hard to digest and must be strictly avoided by people experiencing ulcerative colitis. The digestion of this food item pulls more water in into the gut and cause severe diarrhea, bloating, and gas.
• Soda and caffeine
  The carbonation or fizz in sodas might make you feel gaseous and cause bloating as well. Similarly, your wake-me-up drink, coffee, can help with daily bowel movements, but is an unhealthy choice in the long run.
• Cruciferous veggies
  A person suffering from ulcerative colitis will find it hard to digest vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower as have a huge amount of sulfur.

People with this gut disorder can have different triggers and different safe foods. However, if you know about this basic list of 5 foods to avoid and 5 to eat in ulcerative colitis, you should be able to manage the symptoms easily.