Crohns/Ulcerative Colitis

Can anyone give a clearer list of foods to eat/not eat during flare-ups??
Also....foods in general to eat to help prevent flare-ups and eat on a day to day basis with this disease???

Thanks so much !!!

[nicsmith11]

I've had UC for 4 years and been through 2 flares. My last one was almost a year long. Things did not start to get better until I really got serious about changing what I was eating. I think it may be different for everyone but here's what I've found works for me. During a flare up, I stick to easily digestible simple foods. White breads, fruits, white rice, oatmeal, really plain things. Whole and unprocessed basic foods are the best. Things that bother me during flare ups are onions, any kind of spicy foods, dairy products, large quantities of pasta, fried foods, and broccoli. I also find it is best for me to stay away from these foods in large quantites to prevent flare ups. When in remission, I add in whole grains and more variety of vegetables. I think the better you eat, the better chance you have to prevent flares. Think balanced meals with fruit and veggies making up half of your meal. Try to make a journal of what you eat and how you feel and try to find your own triggers. I also take a daily multivitamin to make sure I am getting all vitamins and minerals.

[nicsmith11]

I've had UC for 4 years and been through 2 flares. My last one was almost a year long. Things did not start to get better until I really got serious about changing what I was eating. I think it may be different for everyone but here's what I've found works for me. During a flare up, I stick to easily digestible simple foods. White breads, fruits, white rice, oatmeal, really plain things. Whole and unprocessed basic foods are the best. Things that bother me during flare ups are onions, any kind of spicy foods, dairy products, large quantities of pasta, fried foods, and broccoli. I also find it is best for me to stay away from these foods in large quantites to prevent flare ups. When in remission, I add in whole grains and more variety of vegetables. I think the better you eat, the better chance you have to prevent flares. Think balanced meals with fruit and veggies making up half of your meal. Try to make a journal of what you eat and how you feel and try to find your own triggers. I also take a daily multivitamin to make sure I am getting all vitamins and minerals.

[mourani]

Thanks for your comments & info !   I truly appreciate it !!  This also is my second flare-up. it's going on 3 months now......this disease is pretty ****** huh?!  ( pun intended)
I will try your suggestions. All the best to you !!!  :  )

[KimK1]

I've had the illness for 36 years and I can tell you that you will eventually be able to determine what you can and cannot eat during a flare-up.

I agree with nicsmith11 on bland things such as rice, toast etc..  Fruits were pretty much out for me, unless canned. however I never had problems with dairy.  Lettuce was a whole different story.  It would come out looking like it went in, not even digested.

However, when I'm doing well I can have a salad without any problems.

Unfortunately this disease is all "trial and error"   Do everything in moderation till you figure what YOUR body can or cannot handle.   I also tried a new approach: Organic. I cut out all pork,& seafood  ( truthfully, they are "dirty" animals) and I thought about what I was ingesting and that quite possibly that could be aggravating the situation further.

YES it was difficult.  I loved bacon, ham, shrimp, lobster, crab legs and oysters...but after a short period, I myself saw a change. I drank organic milk (stayed away from anything with Growth hormones in it), and ate organic eggs.  Occasionally, organic meat.  

I realize "organic" is pricey, and since I personally could not afford to go completely organic...I did the best I could with what I was able to buy.  Best of luck !  Hope this helps some.    

Kim