Ulcerative Colitis

Home » Ulcerative Colitis » Prevention

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Your GI Condition
(Free Handout)

Prevention

Ulcerative colitis cannot be prevented, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Dietary changes, including avoiding certain foods (e.g., dairy products, cabbage, broccoli, beans, spicy foods) and increasing dietary fiber, may help in some cases. Other foods that may increase ulcerative colitis symptoms include raw fruits, popcorn, alcohol, coffee, chocolate, and soda.

Patients who have ulcerative colitis should eat small, frequent meals. If the condition is active, bland, soft foods may cause less discomfort. Patients should also be sure to drink plenty of liquids, especially water. A daily multivitamin may be helpful, as colitis interferes with proper absorption of nutrients. Patients should consult a nutritionist or dietician if food restrictions or limitations become difficult to manage.

Although stress does not cause ulcerative colitis, it does have a proven effect on the digestive system. High stress levels can cause the stomach to empty more slowly and produce more acid.

Ulcerative colitis can cause emotional problems—the need to constantly use the bathroom can lead to anxiety, embarrassment, social isolation, and eventually depression. Patients who feel that they may be depressed should seek counseling or contact a health care provider.

Exercise, even mild exercise such as walking, can help reduce stress. Biofeedback techniques, yoga, meditation, and hypnosis can be used to reduce muscle tension and slow heart rate. Engaging in enjoyable activities, such as reading, music, or a warm bath at night, can help reduce stress and relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Ulcerative Colitis Resources

	Join Our Ulcerative Colitis Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
Advertising Disclaimer To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer