Ulcerative Colitis: How to Manage Triggers Naturally

Do you have persistent abdominal pain or sudden weight loss? Or do you see blood in your stool? These symptoms could be more serious than a minor digestive problem. They could indicate ulcerative colitis—a chronic digestive condition that affects the lining of the colon. While ulcerative colitis is a lifelong disease, the good news is that you can manage its symptoms naturally through simple changes in diet, lifestyle, and habits. You can also consult our Gastroenterologist in CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment.

What is ulcerative colitis? 

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term condition caused by inflammation of the lining of your colon and rectum. It occurs when the colon becomes inflamed, leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and fatigue. This condition is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although it is a lifelong disease, early diagnosis and proper care can help you manage your condition.

Common Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloody diarrhoea
• Frequent urge to pass stool
• Low energy or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever (especially during flare-ups)
• Joint pain or skin rashes (in some people)

If these symptoms keep coming back, you should consult a gastroenterologist.

What triggers a flare-up in ulcerative colitis?

Understanding and avoiding your triggers is key to managing UC. Here are the most common ones:

1. Dietary Triggers

Some foods may irritate your digestive tract and worsen inflammation:

• Spicy curries or oily street food
• Deep-fried snacks (like samosas and pakoras)
• Milk or dairy products (if you are lactose intolerant)
• Caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, cola
• Alcohol or smoking
• Carbonated beverages

2. Mental Stress

Emotional stress does not cause UC, but it can make your symptoms worse. Stress from work, studies, family, or finances can lead to more flare-ups.

3. Infections or Antibiotics

A stomach infection or certain antibiotics can disturb your gut bacteria, leading to inflammation.

4. Painkillers

Common medicines like ibuprofen or diclofenac (NSAIDs) can irritate your gut. Use them only with medical advice.

5. Hormonal Changes

Women may notice worsened symptoms during their period or pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Diet Tips to Manage Ulcerative Colitis Naturally

Let’s look at practical, natural steps that can help reduce your symptoms and flare-ups.

Eat a Gut-Friendly Diet

There is no fixed “ulcerative colitis diet”, but choosing the right foods can help a lot.

Foods to Avoid:

• Raw vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, or spinach (during flare-ups)
• Dairy products (milk, paneer, curd – if lactose intolerant)
• Spicy pickles and chutneys
• Deep-fried or processed snacks
• Whole pulses and beans (can cause gas)

Safe Indian Foods (Especially During a Flare-Up):

• Soft-cooked rice, khichdi
• Boiled potatoes or carrots
• Moong dal (strained)
• Homemade curd (if tolerated)
• Steamed idlis or plain upma
• Fruits like banana, papaya, apple (without peel)
• Coconut water and herbal teas

Eat small, frequent meals. Avoid skipping meals or overeating.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, coconut water, and homemade soups to avoid dehydration, especially during diarrhoea episodes.

• Use Natural Supplements (Only With Doctor’s Advice)
• Curcumin (from turmeric) – may reduce inflammation
• Probiotics – to support good gut bacteria
• Aloe vera juice – some people find it soothing
• Isabgol (psyllium husk) – may help with mild constipation (not during diarrhoea)
• Never start herbal remedies without medical guidance.

Manage Stress Naturally

Stress affects your gut directly. Try:

• Yoga or pranayama (deep breathing)
• Meditation for 10–15 minutes daily
• Walking or light exercise in the morning
• Avoiding late-night screen time

Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can increase inflammation. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest every night.

Ulcerative Colitis Diet Chart 

Meal	Suggested Foods
Breakfast	Oatmeal with banana and herbal tea
Mid-Morning	Applesauce or boiled egg
Lunch	White rice, steamed carrots, grilled chicken
Afternoon	Smoothie with almond milk and melon
Dinner	Mashed potatoes, baked fish, boiled zucchini
Evening Snack	Rice cakes with peanut butter

Always tailor your diet based on personal tolerance and medical advice.

Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis

Although we’re focusing on natural management here, it’s important to understand that ulcerative colitis treatment often involves medical intervention.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor may use blood tests, stool samples, colonoscopy, or imaging tests to make an ulcerative colitis diagnosis. Early detection is crucial to manage the disease effectively.

Medication

Treatments aim to reduce inflammation and maintain remission. Common medications include:

• Aminosalicylates (5-ASAs)
• Corticosteroids (for short-term flare control)
• Immunomodulators
• Biologic therapies (targeted immune blockers)

Surgery

• In severe cases, or if medications fail, ulcerative colitis surgery may be required.
• This typically involves removing part or all of the colon. 
• Surgery can be life-changing and may even be a cure for some patients.

However, many people manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes and medical therapy without ever needing surgery.

Final Thoughts

Managing ulcerative colitis isn’t just about taking medicine. It’s about learning to listen to your body, understanding your triggers, and making thoughtful choices every day. Diet, stress, and lifestyle all play a role in flare-ups. While there’s no cure, many people live full, active lives by finding what works for them.

If you’re facing daily symptoms, don’t ignore them. Speak with your doctor, get the right ulcerative colitis diagnosis, and create a plan that includes both medical treatment and natural strategies.

FAQs

Can stress alone cause an ulcerative colitis flare-up?

Stress doesn’t directly cause flare-ups but can worsen symptoms or trigger them in some people.

Is ulcerative colitis the same as Crohn’s disease?

No, both are types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but they affect different parts of the digestive tract.

Are there any herbal remedies for ulcerative colitis?

Some herbs like turmeric (curcumin) and aloe vera may help reduce inflammation, but always consult a doctor before use.

Does fasting help with ulcerative colitis symptoms?

Fasting may give your gut a break during flare-ups, but it’s not a cure and should be done under medical supervision.

Is ulcerative colitis genetic?

Yes, genetics can play a role, especially if a close family member also has IBD.

Can ulcerative colitis go into permanent remission?

Some people experience long periods of remission, but UC is a chronic condition and may return over time.