Ulcerative Colitis

Diet and Stress

A person's diet or stress level does not cause ulcerative colitis; however, patients may benefit from reducing stress and eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Nutritional supplements help correct malnutrition that results from this disease.

Stress reduction
Stress can worsen symptoms of ulcerative colitis. When a person experiences stress, the stomach empties more slowly and secretes more acids. Regular exercise, yoga, massage and meditation are just a few ways to reduce stress.

Balanced nutrition
Physicians may recommend commercially available nutritional supplements, especially in cases of malnutrition or in children whose growth has been slowed by disease. In ulcerative colitis, unlike Crohn's disease, intravenous nutrition is not considered a treatment.

Patients with ulcerative colitis should eliminate any foods or beverages from their diet that seem to make symptoms worse. The following suggestions may help:

• Limit dairy products; some patients benefit from lactase-fortified products.
• Try low-fat foods.
• Experiment with foods high in fiber (fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains).
• Eat small meals.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Talk to a dietitian.