Ulcerative Colitis Diet

Some studies have shown that high sugar intake is associated with an increase in risk for UC. Other research has failed to find any association between UC and sugar intake. Until more is known, persons with inflammatory bowel diseases, including UC, should consider limiting their intake of sugar.

In two studies, people with a high intake of animal fat, cholesterol, or margarine had a significantly increased risk of UC, compared with people who consumed less of these fats. Although these associations do not prove cause-and-effect, reducing one’s intake of animal fats and margarine is a means of improving overall health and possibly UC as well.

There is preliminary evidence that people who eat fast food at least twice a week have nearly four times the risk of developing UC than people who do not eat fast food.

More than a half-century ago, several doctors reported that food allergies play an important role in some cases of UC. Since that time, many doctors have observed that avoidance of allergenic foods will often reduce the severity of UC and can sometimes completely control the condition. In other old studies, milk has been reported to trigger UC, and people with UC were found to have antibodies to milk in their blood, a possible sign of allergy. Today the relationship between food allergies and UC remains controversial and is not generally accepted by the conventional medical community. People who wish to explore the possibility that food sensitivities may trigger their symptoms may wish to consult with an appropriate healthcare provider...