When the immune system misidentifies and targets good gut bacteria, the cells that line the colon, and food, it can lead to ulcerative colitis. The condition drives the white blood cells to attack the colon lining and trigger symptoms like irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the large intestine. While ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition, adding certain foods to one’s meals and following some treatment options may help manage the condition.
Foods for ulcerative colitis
Nut butters
A good source of proteins and healthy fats, nut butters like peanut butter, cashew butter, and almond butter may help manage any flare-up that may result from ulcerative colitis.
Peeled and cooked veggies
Peeled and cooked vegetables are soft and contain less insoluble fiber, making them less irritating to the gut. A few foods to consider are carrots, spinach, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes. The vegetables are abundant in nutrients like vitamins A and K, which can help reduce the effects of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a type of ulcerative colitis.
Yogurt
Fermented foods like yogurt are rich in probiotics that contain healthy bacteria. Such bacteria aid the digestive system and reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and flare-ups. But one must steer clear of flavored yogurt as its sugar content may worsen symptoms.
Salmon
Salmon is a rich source of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These properties are known to curb inflammation caused by ulcerative colitis. Other fish rich in omega-3s include shrimp and tuna.
Treatments for ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can be managed with certain treatment options, such as:
STELARA® (ustekinumab)
STELARA® is a prescription treatment for children who are six years and older and adults with moderate to severely active ulcerative colitis. Patients injected with the treatment may find quick relief from their symptoms within eight weeks.
Entyvio® (vedolizumab)
Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis are given Entyvio when other treatment options do not work efficiently. The dosage is 300 mg infused intravenously over about 30 minutes as directed by the doctor.
Remicade® (Infliximab)
The treatment option has multiple purposes when it comes to managing ulcerative colitis. Remicade® (Infliximab) reduces the symptoms and maintains remission. The injection also boosts intestinal healing in adult patients with moderate or severe ulcerative colitis.
