Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a disease of the large intestine. This inflammatory bowel disease causes irritation, inflammation, and ulcers in the lining of the colon. The immune system is affected, and it reacts abnormally by attacking food, good gut bacteria, and the colon lining. The irritation and swelling, consequently, lead to ulcers and open sores in the large intestine.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) tract, and thus a lot of the symptoms pertain to the digestive system. The symptoms are mild or severe depending on which part of the colon is affected. And they are intermittent, giving you periods of relief before returning to bother you.

1. Diarrhea
Loose stools with blood or pus are the most common sign of ulcerative colitis. You might feel the urge to use the bathroom a lot. Sometimes the diarrhea is triggered by food, and sometimes for seemingly no reason. It might disrupt your sleep too. It could also seem like your colon is not empty even after using the restroom.

2. Pain
Belly pain and abdominal discomfort are typical in most ulcerative colitis patients. Sometimes you get cramps while you are in the bathroom. Pain in other parts, like joints, and eyes may also occur. Apart from the abdomen, canker sores in the mouth and rashes in the skin can also be painful.

3. Fatigue
Ulcerative colitis causes several problems that make you tired. Nausea and fatigue do not allow you to eat, and diarrhea and inflammation make it hard for the body to absorb essential nutrients. Rectal bleeding can also cause anemia and, along with dehydration, can result in extreme tiredness. There is also weight loss because the body cannot hold nutrients and passes out most of what you consume.

Foods that trigger ulcerative colitis
Since ulcerative colitis is a gastrointestinal tract disease, there is no surprise that food plays a significant role in the onset and disappearance of symptoms. During flare-ups, low-fiber diets help reduce harmful substances in the colon. And in periods of remission, avoiding certain foods can prolong your period of peace. The following foods trigger symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

1. Caffeine and alcohol
Coffee, tea, soda, and even chocolates have caffeine. 22% of people with UC reported worsening symptoms after coffee intake. Alcohol also triggers diarrhea in people. Carbonated drinks are also known to irritate the GI tract and cause gas.

2. Nuts and seeds
While for most people, the healthy fats of nuts are an advantage, people with ulcerative colitis should avoid nuts. Walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, almonds, cashews, and pecans are all very hard to digest and are full of fiber. Seeds also have a similar effect. They aggravate symptoms and can trigger bloating and diarrhea.

3. Legumes
Dried peas, beans, and lentils are all high-fiber, high-protein foods. The indigestible sugars in beans cause gas and also UC flare-ups. Say no to all beans, especially chickpeas, adzuki beans, soybeans, and edamame.