An inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, causes inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine or colon. The symptoms of the condition can flare up suddenly and continue for weeks. To educate you, here is a brief guide on warning signs of ulcerative colitis and foods to avoid for ulcerative colitis patients.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis

1. Rectal bleeding
The mildest form of this condition is known as ulcerative proctitis. Only the rectum, the part of the colon near the anus, is affected, resulting in rectal bleeding.

2. Diarrhea and abdominal pain
When the lower end of the colon and rectum are affected, it is known as proctosigmoiditis. One might experience abdominal pain, cramps, and bloody diarrhea. One might also have sudden urges to pass stool.

3. Weight loss
In addition to bloody diarrhea and cramps, another sign of ulcerative colitis is loss of weight without any change in diet or exercise. This is also called left-sided colitis and causes inflammation from the rectum to the left side of the colon.

4. Fatigue
Ulcerative colitis can also cause fatigue, which is also called pancolitis. Here the entire colon is affected.

Foods to avoid for ulcerative colitis

1. Whole grains
Foods made from whole grain flour such as bread, cereals, pasta, and noodles should be avoided by ulcerative colitis patients. This is because these foods are difficult to digest as the germ or bran has not been removed from the grain. Instead, they should opt for white bread, pasta, and cereals such as puffed rice and corn flakes to manage the condition better.

2. Seeds
The insoluble fiber in seeds such as sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and millet can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Hence, to prevent a flare-up of symptoms, it is best that these are avoided by Ulcerative colitis patients.

3. Legumes
These include beans, peas, and lentils. Although these foods are high in fiber and protein, making them difficult to digest. They can cause gas and other digestive issues. Hence, avoiding all beans like chickpeas, soybeans, edamame, and adzuki is beneficial to ulcerative colitis patients.

4. Fibrous fruits and vegetables
One can eat peeled ad cooked fruits and vegetables. Additionally, vegetable puree and canned fruits can also be consumed. However, choose the ones that are packed in their own juice or water. One can also opt to drink pulp-free juices as well.

Staying away from trigger foods that aggravate the condition is advised. One will be able to manage and cope with the condition better by following food recommendations from doctors.