Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers in the inner lining of your colon. Crohn’s disease is also a type of IBD that causes similar symptoms, and ongoing treatments, diet, and lifestyle changes to keep symptoms under control. Trigger foods cause immune reactions nda often trigger IBD symptoms, causing the lining in the digestive system to become inflamed and irritated. Here we will discuss some common trigger foods and treatments for crohn’s and colitis:

1. Raw green vegetables
Raw vegetables contain a chemical called goitrin. This is converted to thiocyanate when your body digests it. Thiocyanate can irritate your gut. Vegetables more likely to cause the most problems include cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables. In most cases, these vegetables can be eaten cooked without a problem. Cooking causes the goitrin to get broken down. Prescribed medications, like Entyvio (Vedolizumab) are often used to control symptoms of digestive upset

2. Alcohol
Drinking too much can irritate the lining of your gut. To prevent this, avoid or moderate alcohol intake to reduce uncomfortable symptoms. Many patients find that they reduce their condition worsening by limiting the amount of wine, hard liquor and beer they drink each week. Binge drinking also upsets the balance of bacteria in your gut, making it more difficult for your gut to heal. Can Otezla (Apremilast) treat Crohn’s disease, you may ask? Yes. Talk to your doctor about how this medication and lifestyle adjustments can help manage your condition

3. Caffeinated foods and drinks
Caffeine causes the intestines to secrete fluid and causes diarrhea. It also increases the risk of dehydration, which can cause your intestines to become even more inflamed. Tea and coffee are familiar sources of caffeine. Other foods, such as chocolate, also contain a small amount of caffeine. Decaffeinated drinks are safe to drink in moderation

4. Lactose
Over time, your intestines may lose the ability to produce lactase. Lactase is the enzyme needed to digest dairy products. This means that undigested dairy stays in your gut and causes an immune reaction. This increases the risk of inflammation and intestinal damage. Most people can still consume small amounts without a problem. Larger amounts may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, cramping, diarrhea, and bloating. If you have problems digesting dairy, speak with your doctor about other ways to increase your lactase levels. They may prescribe Stelara (Ustekinumab), which targets the immune element of your condition

5. Whole grains
Cereals are often recommended as part of a healthy diet. When these foods are digested, a protein called wheat germ agglutinin is released. This protein can sensitize your immune system and make it more likely for an allergic reaction to occur. Over time your intestines may develop antibodies against wheat germ agglutinin, making it more difficult for your body to break down these foods. This can lead to inflammation, intestinal damage, and nutrient absorption problems. Recommended substitutes to grains include brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley

6. Foods high in fat
Certain types of fat, such as trans fats and saturated fat, can increase inflammation in the intestines. This puts people with IBD at a greater risk of getting further complications such as strictures, fistulas, and abscesses. Choose lean cuts of meat and avoid using butter or margarine in cooking. Avoid eating fried and greasy foods as much as possible. A dietary plan that limits the amount of fat is one of the most effective treatments

A healthy diet and lifestyle can help keep your flare-ups low. To help you meet these goals, seek advice from a registered dietitian. They can recommend the right foods based on your condition and lifestyle. They will also help you develop a healthy diet plan that will work best for you.