One of the main problems of ulcerative colitis is inflammation that can trigger pain in the abdomen, loss of appetite, and discomforts associated with diarrhea. The inflammation can last for more extended periods and vary in terms of severity. There are medications and treatment options for ulcerative colitis that provide long term relief. However, making proper changes in one’s diet can significantly help reduce the frequent flare-ups that cause discomfort. That is why knowing what not to eat can help one plan a diet that doesn’t result in symptoms of the condition flaring up unexpectedly.

Here are the top foods to avoid with colitis.

Whole foods high in fiber
Fiber is one of the crucial compounds that the digestive system benefits from to help flush out cholesterol and harmful carcinogens while promoting healthy bowel movements. Those who have ulcerative colitis must altogether avoid the intake of whole foods that comprise fiber. These include whole bread, cereals, pasta, noodles, and even macaroni. The high fiber tends to increase gas, force abdominal cramps, and affect the frequency of bowel movements, thus flaring up the symptoms. In fact, at times, to avoid this kind of inflammation caused by fiber-rich food, medical professionals recommend foods made out of white flour, unless of course, a person may be suffering from gluten intolerance.

Nuts and seeds
On any other day, a handful of assorted nuts prove to be beneficial for vital body functions. However, being high in fiber, they are quite hard to digest. Walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, cashews, almonds, macadamia nuts, peanuts, and even pistachios join the long list of foods to avoid with colitis. The same goes for different varieties of seeds naturally rich in insoluble fibers. Their consumption disrupts normal digestive function to cause bloating, gas, and can also lead to frequent bouts of diarrhea. So avoid pine nuts, millet, and an assortment of seeds, including sesame, flax, pumpkin, and sunflower.

Fibrous fruits and vegetables
One must avoid fruits that are raw, dried, or have edible seeds in them. Most fruits are naturally rich in fiber, including popular favorites like peaches, pears, apples, bananas, apricots, figs, cranberries, mangoes, and your dried raisins, prunes, and dates. One must altogether avoid consuming these fruits in their natural form to reduce flaring up the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Among vegetables, avoid raw fibrous options. It is okay to moderately consume veggies that are cooked properly, have no seeds, and skinned/appropriately peeled to reduce the amount of fiber.

Sugary, aerated, and alcoholic beverages
Among the common foods to avoid with colitis, one must also refrain from consuming beverages that can trigger or aggravate the symptoms. These include mild and hard liquor, carbonated soda and flavored drinks made with sugar, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners that can all cause gas. It is also advisable to limit the consumption of coffee when certain symptoms do flare-up.