There are times those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis (UC) do not want to even hear about food. The constant cramping, diarrhea, bloating, and pain can cause them to lose their appetite or become unable to digest food. When managing the symptoms and inflammation caused by UC and IBS, it is essential to have a nutritional treatment plan. The diet should be varied so that patients get the nutrition and calories that they need.

Here are a few tips to help with your UC and IBS diet:

1. Veggies
While vegetables should not be eliminated from your diet, changing the way they are prepared will help them become easily digestible. Steaming the vegetables until they are soft can ensure that patients receive the nutrients that vegetables provide without them causing gas that can irritate the digestive system.

2. Alcohol
Alcohol can be a nice addition with a meal, but it should be avoided if you have UC or IBS. It irritates to the digestive system and can cause flare ups. Caffeine is another stimulant that should be avoided with UC and IBS.

3. Beans and legumes
Dried beans, legumes, and peas should be avoided because these are gaseous foods that could trigger inflammatory flare ups. Dried fruit should also be avoided because they will cause gas and pain due to the irritation of the digestive tract.

4. Dairy
Dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt, or any food prepared with dairy should be eliminated from the IBS diet. In a few mild cases, a doctor may permit a dairy product that is used in preparation for another food. Only the patient can know if a small amount of dairy affects their symptoms.

5. FODMAPs
The low-FODMAP (an acronym for fermentable oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols) diet is designed specifically for people with gastrointestinal disorders. Limiting FODMAPs in the diet is an effective treatment for many people who experience the symptoms of IBS. Low FODMAPs include fermentable carbohydrates. These include chicken, lamb, pork, fish, walnuts, pecans, almonds, turkey, and other nuts and seeds that provide protein.

Ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome are both painful disorders that have many food triggers that are a major contributor for flare ups. Develop a proper nutrient rich treatment plan with your doctor that can help ease the pain and inflammation that these disorders cause. You can still have flavorful meals and enjoy tasty snacks while maintaining a healthy diet that works for you.