Replenish Nutrients and Fluids

• Your food choices can help minimize colitis symptoms.
  
  While some cases may require medications, your diet can play a major role in managing symptoms. Since people who suffer from colitis will often be afflicted with diarrhea, they need to be particularly concerned about nutritional deficiencies. Dehydration and a loss of electrolytes - essential for cell and organ function - are certainly risks.
  
  The first and easiest dietary action is to drink plenty of fluids, concentrating on water as your primary source. Be careful with caffeine intake, particularly when experiencing diarrhea.
  
  

Foods That Make Colitis Worse

• Certain foods make symptoms of colitis flare up. But, it's not the same for everyone. With the help of your doctor and/or nutritionist, you can determine what foods set you off. Here are some examples of foods that can potentially make colitis symptoms worse:
  
  Spicy Foods: Spices can add flair to a meal, but some also make your colitis flare up. Mild foods are probably your best bet.
  
  High Fiber Foods: Fiber is healthy for you, but if you suffer from colitis, it's not always agreeable with your digestive system. Some colitis sufferers prefer to follow a low-fiber diet to reduce movements, and hence, the discomfort associated with it. Also consider eliminating or minimizing raw fruits and vegetables. Try steaming, baking and stewing them to soften them up.
  
  Dairy: Lactose intolerance can exacerbate your colitis.
  
  Fatty Foods: Reduce fat, since it can cause gas and diarrhea.
  
  

Foods That Fight Colitis Symptoms

• Besides the fact that certain foods help minimize your colitis symptoms, the quantity of your meals makes a difference. Eat more frequent but smaller meals. This will help keep digestive activity under control. Follow these simple rules for what you eat:
  
  Vary Food: People who suffer form colitis are often depleted of important nutrients. It's important get a variety of healthy foods to ensure a nutritious diet.
  
  Lean Proteins: Besides the fact that you are minimizing fat, you are getting your required protein. Chicken, turkey and fish are great ways to stay lean.
  
  Bland is Good: Keep your foods simple and garnished with little or no spices.
  
  Remember, one size doesn't fit all. What may make one person ill, may not affect another. Use a food diary to figure out what you react to, and talk to your doctor or nutritionist who can give you personalized help in making the right dietary decisions.