Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease in which the large intestine (colon) becomes inflamed and ulcerated, leading to attacks of bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever, said Dr. Mona Hussein, a researcher at the Sakha Food Technology Research Institute.
She continued, as the long-term risk of colon cancer is increased compared to people without ulcerative colitis.
The researcher at the Food Technology Research Institute added that ulcerative colitis is more common between the ages of 20 and 45, where ulcerative colitis affects the deepest lining in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually appear gradually over time, not suddenly, and there is no way yet to prevent the disease. .
She explained that there are some guidelines that can be taken to reduce symptoms as dietary changes improve symptoms, such as maintaining a high-calorie diet or a lactose-free diet.
Dr. Mona Hussein stressed the need for nutritional treatment for ulcerative colitis patients, by following the patient’s intake of types and quantities of food, using food records during the past 24 hours, which show the amount of protein and calories consumed, and to know the patient’s need for nutrients that help speed recovery where it should Providing the patient with calories (2000-3500) to help him compensate for what he lost and restore his activity.
It is also recommended that the patient take daily (1-1.5) g of protein per kg of body weight, and milk should be excluded from the diet if the patient cannot tolerate it due to the malabsorption of lactose sugar, and it can be replaced with fermented milk or yogurt. He recommends giving the patient multivitamin tablets such as (VC-V). B12|) and minerals such as iron, potassium and sodium through the veins because he suffers from diarrhea and malabsorption, then with food.
She indicated that foods that cause irritation to the mucous tissues lining the intestines should be excluded, such as dietary fiber, fruits, fresh vegetables, spices, spices, pickles, and foods rich in dietary fiber (such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains), while reducing the amount of fat in food to 25% of the total daily energy intake.
She emphasized that ulcerative colitis symptoms can be treated using medications that control inflammation and suppress the immune system, and the treatment may also be surgical.
Finally, it is recommended that the patient eats six small meals daily instead of three large meals in order to comfort the digestive system and increase the rate of absorption and utilization of nutrients.
The researcher at the Institute of Food Technology said that the allowed foods are:
Balila made with whole grain wheat or gluten-free bread, white pasta and white rice.
Pulses are well-cooked, such as lentil soup.
Lean white meat, fish like salmon and sardines rich in omega-3s, and grilled chicken.
Milk and its products if the patient tolerates them and does not have lactose intolerance.
Well-cooked vegetables without seeds and without skin.
Low-fiber fruits: bananas, cantaloupe, watermelon, and other fruits.
Oral supplements or locally whipped proteins.
Peanut butter is a source of protein and healthy fats, and experts advise eating it to avoid indigestion and colitis, and it can be eaten with bread or placed on meat, white rice with turmeric.
The use of turmeric is useful in treating ulcerative colitis, and experts advise using it on white rice, because it contains anti-inflammatory substances that contribute to reducing intestinal disorders.
