How to Heal Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation and sores along the lining of the colon and rectum. Ulcers can form when the inflammation has killed cells that outline the colon. Symptoms include weight loss, anemia, rectal bleeding, loss of appetite, skin lesions and loss of body fluids. Some doctors believe bacteria causes the condition, and it can be prevalent in people with immune system deficiencies. Although there is no scientific proof that diet heals ulcers, avoiding certain foods and taking certain medications can help ease symptoms.

Instructions

1

Take anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers prescribed by your physician. These medications may reduce the stomach pain in ulcerative colitis. Antibiotics can reduce the fevers people often experience with the condition, and antidiarrhea medication can help with the most bothersome symptom. Iron supplements can assist with the intestinal bleeding. Take multivitamins because ulcerative colitis can affect your body's ability to absorb nutrients.

2

Limit the consumption of dairy products, which should reduce stomach discomfort and gas.

3

Avoid eating foods that cause stomach problems or make symptoms worse. Eliminate foods such as beans, cabbage, broccoli, raw fruit juices and fruits, popcorn, alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages and acidic foods such as tomatoes and oranges. Also, eat small meals so you do not upset your stomach.

4

Drink plenty of fluids because one of the common systems of ulcerative colitis is diarrhea. Replenishing your bodily fluids is essential in relieving symptoms of the condition.

5

Reduce stress or high stress situations because this has been known to aggravate symptoms of ulcers. Exercise regularly to help eliminate stress.

6

Explore and discuss surgical options with your physician if diet and lifestyle changes along with medication have not alleviated your symptoms. Surgery can often eliminate ulcerative colitis, but it usually involves removing the colon and wearing a bag on the outside of your small intestine to collect feces. Surgery should only be considered as a last resort and should be discussed in depth with your physician.