Navigating Colitis: Effective Nutritional Strategies for Symptom Management

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet is essential for managing colitis. Include a variety of foods from all food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like poultry and fish), and healthy fats (like avocados and olive oil). This helps ensure you get a wide range of nutrients for overall health.
2. Focus on Low-Fibre Foods During Flares: During colitis flare-ups, the inflamed bowel may struggle to process high-fibre foods. Opt for low-fibre alternatives such as white bread, refined grains, well-cooked vegetables without skins, and tender fruits without seeds or skin. These choices are more accessible to the digestive system and can help reduce symptoms like diarrhoea.
3. Consider a Low-Residue Diet: Unlike low-fibre diets, low-residue diets minimise foods that leave undigested residue in the colon. This approach can help reduce stool volume and frequency during flare-ups. It typically avoids raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
4. Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea associated with colitis can lead to dehydration, so drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day is crucial. Water is best, but other hydrating options include herbal teas and electrolyte-rich beverages (avoid those with high sugar content).
5. Limit Trigger Foods: Some foods may trigger or worsen colitis symptoms in specific individuals. Common triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, refined sugar, products containing sorbitol and dairy products. Listen to your body’s responses and keep a food diary to identify specific triggers.
6. Consider Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can support gut health. They may help restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut and reduce inflammation. Yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods are natural sources of probiotics.
7. Discuss Supplements with a Qualified Practitioner: Depending on your nutritional needs and the severity of your colitis, your practitioner may recommend supplements such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, turmeric or probiotics to support overall health.

Managing colitis through nutrition involves finding a balance that supports digestive health, reduces inflammation, and provides adequate nutrition. We are on hand to help tailor a diet plan that meets your needs and improves your quality of life.