Ulcerative Colitis

• Yogurt and buttermilk are excellent for maintaining a balance of beneficial bacteria in the bowels.

• Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity may cause increased pressure in the abdomen which leads to acidity.

• Avoid eating heavy meals late at night; finish the last meat, preferably 2-3 hours before bedtime.

• Avoid acidic foods and juices that make the symptoms worse like pepper, spicy food, chocolates, and high-fat foods.

• Drink plenty of fluids, have at least 10 glasses of water. Avoid caffeine which stimulates the intestines and can make diarrhea worse, while carbonated drinks frequently produce gas.

• Manage stress. Although stress does not cause ulcerative colitis it may aggravate symptoms and even delay healing.

• Get enough sleep so the body has time to repair and regenerate damaged cells without the demands of digesting food.