Ulcerative colitis is regarded as an inflammatory bowel disease that tends to stay around for life. It causes all sorts of unfavorable signs and symptoms like abdominal pain, constant fatigue, unwanted weight loss, fever, difficulty in moving the bowels despite of the urgency, and diarrhea which often involves the presence of pus and blood.
Experts say that ulcerative colitis is an autoimmune disorder. This means that it is the person’s own immune system that attacks the cells of the GI tract, in particular those of the colon and rectum, instead of just invading microorganisms. Unfortunately, to date, no known cure for ulcerative colitis exists.
Fortunately, the various signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis can be managed in a variety of all-natural ways. They are especially beneficial for a small percentage of all sufferers of the disease who tend to exhibit the signs and symptoms unrelentingly. Here are some of the most effective ways to put ulcerative colitis under control:
Limit the Intake of High-Fiber Foods
Most especially during a flare up, it’s a good idea for someone with ulcerative colitis to steer clear of foods that contain a lot of fiber. Evidently, it’s for the fact that they are hard for the digestive system to process. Since fiber is an important part of the diet, one may steam or cook vegetables before consumption for their easy digestion.
Avoid Gas-Forming Foods
Beans, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts — all of these are known to produce gas. Needless to say, their consumption can make abdominal cramping and flatulence worse. Steering clear of drinks such as coffee, alcohol and carbonated beverages should also be done during flare ups as well as good days.
Include Olive Oil in the Daily Diet
Since ulcerative colitis is inflammatory in nature, controlling inflammation can prove to be highly beneficial. Experts say that the inclusion of more olive oil in the diet can help in managing inflammation and the signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Making olive oil very good at combating inflammation is its antioxidant and healthy fat content.
Have More Fish or Take Fish Supplements
Just like olive oil, fish — particularly the oily or fatty kind — is also helpful for those with ulcerative colitis as it helps keep inflammation at bay, thanks to the loads of omega-3 fatty acids in it. Just in case the regular consumption of fish is not viable, the intake of fish oils or supplements will do.
Take Aloe Vera or Slippery Elm
Individuals with acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) usually count on aloe vera or slippery elm in the management of the said digestive issues because they are very good at soothing irritated and inflamed GI tract lining. It’s due to this why both aloe vera and slippery elm may also be taken by those with ulcerative colitis.
Drink Ginger or Chamomile Tea
Someone with ulcerative colitis who has no access to aloe vera or slippery elm may simply whip up a cup of ginger tea by allowing small slices of fresh ginger root to steep in boiling water for several minutes. Many of those with ulcerative colitis also swear by the effectiveness of chamomile tea in reducing the signs and symptoms.
Populate the Gut with Good Bacteria
By increasing the number of beneficial microorganisms in the gut, it can be easier to prevent ulcerative colitis flare ups from striking. The regular intake of probiotic supplements can help in attaining such objective. Similarly, one may include fermented foods in the diet, such as kefir kimchi and yogurt.
Dodge Stressors and Reduce Stress Levels
In the past, it’s believed that stress was the cause of ulcerative colitis. Thanks to numerous researches, it’s now well-established that stress is not the culprit behind the inflammatory bowel disease, but only something that can aggravate it. This is exactly the reason why you should strive to keep your stress levels low.
