This article provides essential dietary strategies for managing ulcerative colitis, highlighting nutrient-rich foods like omega-3 fish, probiotic items, vegetables, and lean proteins. It also discusses medical treatments including biologic therapies to control inflammation and promote healing, guiding patients in adopting effective nutritional and medical approaches for symptom relief and improved gut health.

Nutritious Food Recommendations for Ulcerative Colitis Relief

Choosing the right foods is essential for managing ulcerative colitis. Focus on nutrient-dense options that soothe the digestive tract and prevent flare-ups. Here's a list of foods that can support symptom control during active phases:

Include Omega-3 Rich Seafood Like Salmon
Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids known for reducing inflammation and supporting gut and heart health. Other sources include flaxseed oil, tuna, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which can aid in managing colitis symptoms.

Consume Probiotic Foods Such as Yogurt and Fermented Items
Foods like yogurt, kefir, miso, and sauerkraut offer probiotics—beneficial bacteria that enhance gut health and bolster immunity. Choose plain, unsweetened options with active cultures to reduce sugar intake and support a balanced intestinal environment during flares.

Enjoy Squash Varieties
Zucchini, butternut, acorn, and spaghetti squash are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. Their fiber content aids digestion, but cooked preparations like roasting or mashing are gentler on inflamed intestines compared to raw squash.

Opt for Eggs for Easy Nutritional Support
Eggs are gentle, high-quality protein sources providing antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin B. Prepare them scrambled, boiled, or poached for easy digestion and nutritional benefits.

Incorporate Healthy Fats from Avocados
Avocados supply monounsaturated fats that benefit heart health and help combat malnutrition linked to inflammatory bowel diseases. Add sliced or mashed avocado to salads, spreads, or meals for extra nutrients.

Include Nuts and Nut Butters
Almonds and walnuts offer healthy fats, while nut butters make convenient additions. Sprinkle nuts onto cereals or spread nut butter on bread; during flare-ups, limit due to fiber content that may irritate sensitive intestines.

Make Homemade Applesauce
Unsweetened applesauce provides essential vitamins with less fiber, easing digestion during inflammation. Homemade versions with peeled, cooked apples and no added sugar are ideal for tailored nutrition.

Easy-to-Digest Oatmeal
Softened oatmeal is gentle on the gut and easy to consume during flare-ups. Choose low-sugar options and enhance flavor with fruit purees or cinnamon, avoiding high-fiber steel-cut oats in active phases.

Lean Protein Options
Skinless poultry, lean beef, pork loin, and turkey supply vital nutrients without excessive saturated fat, supporting tissue repair and overall recovery during inflammation.

Medications for Ulcerative Colitis
AVSOLA® (infliximab-axxq) is an FDA-approved biologic medication that decreases inflammation and promotes healing of the intestinal lining, especially in severe or resistant cases. It is administered intravenously under medical supervision.

Targeted Therapies: ENTYVIO®
ENTYVIO® (vedolizumab) helps control inflammation in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Given via IV infusion biweekly, it requires careful medical oversight due to potential side effects like headache, fever, or fatigue.