If you have ulcerative colitis it is extremely important to follow a special diet to help prevent flare ups. Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the bowel that causes inflammation and sores (or ulcers) in the digestive tract. Foods that are easy to digest and prevent inflammation will help keep colitis symptoms at bay. Some symptoms include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and rectal pain.

Below are a few different foods that are beneficial to eat for colitis patients:

1. Unsweetened applesauce
Applesauce is soft and easy to digest. This is good for a sensitive digestive system that can flare up at any time. Apples also contain fiber, the right amount of fiber is imperative to digest food properly. Sugar causes inflammation so it’s important to only consume unsweetened applesauce.

2. Cooked vegetables
Vegetables are a great addition to your daily ulcerative colitis diet. It’s important that they are cooked though as that softens them up and strips them of a bit of their fiber. Raw vegetables can be hard to digest and too much fiber can leave you feeling bloated and encourage stomach pain. Cooked vegetables are tasty and move easily through the digestive tract.

3. Yogurt
The live bacteria (probiotics) in yogurt helps with digestion tremendously. When buying yogurt, look for yogurt that has live bacteria cultures as this is what is beneficial to your digestive system. These bacteria also take over and help get rid of any unhealthy bacteria residing in your gut. Avoid yogurt that is too high in sugar or contains large pieces of fruit as both are hard to digest.

4. Fish and lean meats
Fatty foods cause inflammation so it’s better to eat lean meats and fish. Some fish do include omega-3 fatty acids but this is good fat that reduces inflammation. Salmon is a perfect addition to your diet as it contains omega-3 fatty acids and enough protein to increase energy levels.

5. Ripe bananas
Your body can handle very ripe softened bananas during a flare up although other raw fruits are not recommended. The carbohydrates and proteins in bananas provide much needed energy. They are also a bland non-acidic fruit that do not irritate the digestion track if eaten properly.

6. Squash
All types of squash are good for an ulcerative colitis diet. They are high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C. Fiber is essential in keeping a healthy gut flora and antioxidants can help fix damage created by inflammation. Cooked or roasted squash is more ideal than eating raw squash as it softens when it is cooked and is easier to digest.

7. Eggs
If you don’t have an egg allergy, eggs are an excellent choice. Eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. They are easy on the digestive system which helps prevent flare ups. Eggs are also high in vitamin B which converts to much needed energy for those dealing with ulcerative colitis.

All these foods listed above are helpful in preventing inflammation and agitation of the digestive track. It is wise to avoid foods that are fatty, loaded with sugar, and too high in fiber when ulcerative colitis is an issue. Eating the right foods and sticking to a healthy diet can work wonders.