People with ulcerative colitis may feel like they are stuck in their lives because of the limitations brought about by the condition. But, you don’t need to feel that way because making some lifestyle changes can help you lead a normal life. These changes can decrease the frequency of your flare-ups and can help control some of the symptoms. Here are certain lifestyle changes you can follow that will help manage a case of ulcerative colitis.
- Go on a low-residue diet
You can try a low-residue diet, which is often called the low-fiber diet, and has shown good results in patients of the condition. The purpose of this diet is to reduce how frequently you pass stools and how much. You can eat refined breakfast cereals such as cornflakes, eggs, cooked vegetables, white bread, white rice, low-fiber noodles, fish, refined pasta, and lean meat. When you cook vegetables you should ensure you are excluding the stalks, peel, and seeds because they can worsen your symptoms. You should speak to your doctor before you go on this particular diet because it isn’t for everyone. - Drink plenty of water
It is easy to be a victim of dehydration when you have ulcerative colitis, which is why drinking lots of water is of utmost importance. If you feel like you are unable to drink as much water, then opt for fruits that have high water content but are low on fiber such as watermelon. You should avoid having fruit juices with the pulp. It is vital to stay away from carbonated drinks because they can lead to flatulence, which can worsen your symptoms. You should also make sure to avoid alcohol and caffeine. Water is the best source of fluids so make sure you meet the minimum quantity required every day. - Avoid foods that cause flare-ups
You might have flare-ups when you eat certain foods. As the condition can affect people differently, you want to keep a close watch on what causes flare-ups. Generally, you want to avoid dairy products or limit how much you consume, especially if you suffer from lactose intolerance. Nutrition tips for ulcerative colitis also decree that you should stay away from spicy foods because they will increase the frequency of your flare-ups and may worsen your symptoms. - Manage your stress levels
Stress is not listed as a cause of ulcerative colitis but it has been found to have an effect on the flare-ups and symptoms. There are numerous ways for you to manage stress. You can try to exercise every day. Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workout regimen. It is recommended to speak with your doctor about what exercises can help and which ones will aggravate the disorder. Regular breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can also help keep you calm. You can opt for biofeedback, which can help reduce stress. - Take nutritional supplements
You want your body to function optimally at all times. Many people notice that they have lost weight and have lost their appetite. This is because diarrhea can cause your body to lose minerals, fluids, and electrolytes. Many people are unable to meet their calorie requirements and don’t get enough vitamins and minerals as a result. In such cases, you can try to ensure you always eat a balanced diet. However, if that is difficult for you, then you can take nutritional supplements after consulting your doctor.
