Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum. It causes symptoms such as bleeding in the rectum, pain in the abdomen, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, and anemia. An overactive immune system, stress, and genetics are the leading causes of ulcerative colitis. Food does not directly cause ulcerative colitis, but what you eat can help manage its symptoms. Some foods can relieve the symptoms, whereas some could worsen them.

To help you, here are ten foods to avoid with ulcerative colitis.

1. Dairy Products
People with lactose intolerance cannot digest lactose and the sugar found in milk. Though lactose intolerance does not directly affect the large intestine or colon, it can amplify pain and diarrhea symptoms. Therefore, people with ulcerative colitis should avoid milk and any dairy products.

2. Whole grains
Whole grains are recommended as part of a recovery diet for most diseases as they contain high amounts of fiber and minerals. However, whole grains take a longer time to digest, making them one of the foods to avoid with ulcerative colitis.

3. Fatty food
When fat is digested, one of its components, linoleic acid, breaks down and is attached to the membranes of the cells within the colon. It can cause inflammation in the colon. Foods that contain linoleic include corn oil, sunflower oil, polyunsaturated fats like margarine, and red meat. Avoiding meat and food prepared with these oils can prevent flare-ups of ulcerative colitis symptoms.

4. Meat and other protein
Research has shown that people who frequently eat meat were at about five times higher risk of developing ulcerative colitis. Processed meat contains additives, further damaging the intestinal lining. Meat can also cause a recurrence of any of the symptoms even after recovery.

5. Spices
Most spices have medicinal properties. However, some can generate heat and irritate the colon, trigger gas, and bloating. These include chili, pepper, cloves, garlic, mustard, and nutmeg. Avoid food or any preparation that has used one or more of these spices.

6. Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables rich in fiber take time to digest. Avoid fruits and vegetables that are stringy. Do not eat them raw. Besides, fruits and vegetables with seeds are a no-no. Avoid fruits and vegetables that cannot be peeled.

7. Nuts and Seeds
Most nuts are difficult to digest. Avoid all nuts, specifically peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, and cashews, as they are harder to digest. Seeds contain fiber that cannot be broken down. Even small seeds like strawberry can trigger symptoms of ulcerative colitis. They can also cause diarrhea, gas, and bloating. Avoid all seeds, including sesame, flax, wild rice, sunflower, pine nuts, millets, and pumpkin seeds.

8. Gluten
Many grains like wheat, rye, and barely have a natural protein called gluten. The gluten is instrumental in making the dough sticky. Gluten can cause allergies and result in gut-related issues like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and bloating weight loss. Gluten aggravates ulcerative colitis symptoms.