How Should Fiber Consumption Be
Fiber can cause problems in some people with active ulcerative colitis, causing abdominal pain and can make diarrhea worse. Fibers are present [11] in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains, and there are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. In the case of ulcerative colitis, soluble fibers should be preferred, as they can help to improve gastrointestinal symptoms.
Soluble fiber is one that dissolves in water and forms a kind of gel in the intestine, helping to reduce intestinal transit and, consequently, diarrhea. Some foods that contain this type of fiber include pear, carrot, apple, guava, green banana, avocado, and turnip.
Most foods contain both soluble and insoluble fibers, so cooking them, removing the cascara, and removing the seeds helps to reduce the amount of insoluble fibers. It is important to remember that when the person is in crisis, with active ulcerative colitis, no type of fiber should be ingested in large quantities, as it can worsen the symptoms.
Supplements That May Be Useful
During treatment for colitis, probiotic supplements [12] can be helpful in helping to regulate intestinal flora, improving digestion, preventing diarrhea and constipation, and reducing gas formation.
Another supplement that can be used is omega-3 [13] in capsules, which helps to reduce inflammation in the body and improve the immune system. However, it is important to remember that any dietary supplement must be prescribed by a doctor or nutritionist.
References:
[1] https://www.medicinenet.com/diet_plans_and_programs/article.htm
[2] https://www.medicinenet.com/ulcerative_colitis/article.htm
[3] https://www.medicinenet.com/ulcerative_colitis_diet/article.htm
[4] https://www.medicinenet.com/diarrhea/symptoms.htm
[5] https://www.medicinenet.com/gluten_foods/article.htm
[6] https://www.medicinenet.com/fiber/article.htm
[7] https://www.medicinenet.com/lactose_intolerance/article.htm
[8] https://www.medicinenet.com/lactose_intolerance/article.htm
[9] https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/diet-and-nutrition/what-should-i-eat
[10] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317836#foods-to-eat
[11] https://www.medicinenet.com/ulcerative_colitis_diet/article.htm
[12] https://www.medicinenet.com/probiotics/article.htm
[13] https://www.medicinenet.com/omega-3_fatty_acids_pictures_slideshow/article.htm