Articles: Weight Loss

Colitis is a very uncomfortable disease that is painful and can be temporarily disabling. It occurs when the lining of the large intestine becomes inflamed. Colitis can develop from poor eating habits, allergy to certain foods, as well as stress. Therefore, a diet for colitis can play an important factor in aiding the remission of colitis.

It is important to understand that different foods affect each person with colitis differently. Therefore, there are no specific rules about what should and should not be eaten. A food journal is recommended to determine what foods cause a flare up of colitis and what foods do not. If you find a typical food is linked to flare ups on multiple occasions, you will know to avoid that food.

Colitis Diet Suggestions

Even though every person has a different reaction to food, here are some suggestions to help develop your personal colitis diet plan:

* Drink plenty of liquids
* 1 tablespoon of oat or rice bran per day will help cleanse the colon
* Lobelia Tea can be used as an enema to help rid undigested foods
* Stretching Exercises can help improve digestion
* Eat a low fat diet
* Stick to broiling and baking your food
* Eat plenty of vegetables
* Dark Leafy Vegetables will help provide vitamin K
* Try lactose free milk products
* Aloe Vera Juice is very soothing for the body
* Try eating fruit at the end of a meal
* Dilute Fruit Juices with water

Pay Attention to Your Reaction to:

* Dairy Products
* Yeast Products
* Wheat Products

These products have different effects on different individuals with colitis.

Avoid:

* Red Meat
* Sugar Products
* Fried Foods
* Heavy Spices
* Processed Foods
* Sauces with a butter base

When Flare Ups Occur

When a flare up of colitis happens, it is important to switch your diet to a low fiber diet and restrict foods that increase bowel activity. This is recommended to slow the rate that food travels through the intestines. This will help the large intestine to not become more inflamed, and allow it to settle again. There are also some natural remedies that may help reduce the inflammation, such as colloidal silver and omega-3 fatty acids. Colloidal silver can be found at your local health food store, and omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and flaxseed. When the flare up of colitis subsides, you can start your regular diet again, with hopefully some knowledge of what food to avoid. Most importantly, see your doctor regularly; even if your colitis is in remission.