MANY AMERICANS HAVE THE DISEASE
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a cure for the disease, estimates that ulcerative colitis may afflict as many as 700,000 Americans. While some children can get the disease, it’s usually diagnosed in many people when they reach their mid-30s and affects men and women fairly evenly.
There is no real cure for colitis, but it can be controlled, and the time between flare-ups can be extended. It’s one of those diseases for which watchful attention to diet, increased exercise and de-stressing may help your compromised immune system calm down. Some people resort to hypnosis, meditation and biofeedback techniques to reach a tranquil state and calm their immune system.
In particular, diet is particularly important. As mentioned, meat and dairy are contributing factors to the progression of the disease.
Researchers don't have definitive evidence that diet causes inflammatory bowel disease, but they do know that particular foods can make symptoms worse. That’s why it’s wise to eliminate or at least moderate your consumption. Experts suggest paying strict attention to what and when you’re eating, perhaps by writing it down in a diary. That way, if something in particular seems to aggravate your condition, you can attempt to eliminate it.
SEVEN FOODS THAT MAY AGGRAVATE COLITIS
ALCOHOL: While not strictly a food, it can play havoc with your body’s immune system at a crucial juncture. Many alcohols can dehydrate you, contributing to the existing problem, and the added sugars present in alcohol may be a factor. Plus, over-indulging may loosen your inhibitions about eating other foods.