Correcting Colitis With Diet

Colitis is an ailment characterized by inflammation of the large intestine (colon). The colon stores waste that is leftover from digestion, and also plays a role in pushing it out of the large intestine for excretion. There is a range of potential causes of colitis. Colitis may result from bacteria or viruses, especially those found in food. It can also result if the colon becomes engorged, develops ulcers or reacts to foreign chemicals introduced into this area. Symptoms associated with colitis generally include blood in bowel movements, abdominal pain, fever and chills. Colitis can be a painful disease to treat; however, you can ake steps to prevent its onset. As the disease occurs in an area related to digestion, specific dietary changes can reduce the likelihood of developing colitis.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink more water. Staying hydrated and adding fluids to your diet aids in the proper functioning of the intestines. The RDA recommends a minimum of 2 liters of water per day.

• 2

  Add complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs provide fiber, in addition to other important nutrients. Fiber is broken down in the colon and then used as an energy source. Although fiber can be beneficial in correcting some forms of colitis, it may irritate others; thus, intake should vary according to each individual. If you experience pain in tandem with an increase in fiber, it is best to reduce your consumption of high-fiber complex carbs. According to the website Genetic Health, fiber can also reduce the risk of colon cancer.

• 3

  Pack on some potassium. People with colitis often have low levels of potassium, and thus may need to increase their intake. Potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, pears, avocados and potatoes help protect the intestine. Adding these foods to your diet may reduce the prevalence of colitis and help to prevent it. If your potassium level is especially low, a physician may recommend a potassium supplement.

• 4

  Integrate some Omega 3s. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids may reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Omega 3s are essential to the human body, but are not created naturally. Therefore, people must add these essential fatty acids through food or supplements. Foods that contain omega 3s include certain fish (tuna, salmon and halibut), some plants and nut oils.

• 5

  Pump up the protein. One of the major symptoms of colitis is diarrhea. Diarrhea can cause deficiencies of protein and other nutrients. A study reported in 2006 by the University of Maryland Medical Center cited soy protein as a good source for people suffering from ulcerative colitis due to milk-product intolerance.

• 6

  Avoid inflammation "trigger foods." Certain foods are more likely to increase inflammation in people suffering from colitis. The main foods to avoid are milk products, alcohol, simple sugars, caffeine and foods containing saturated fat.