When the innermost lining of the large intestine is affected by ulcerative colitis, unpredictable signs and symptoms can be caused. Treatment with medications does not cure the disease but helps in inducing and maintaining remission while improving the quality of life. Understanding the symptoms and trigger foods for ulcerative colitis and proper treatment can enable people prevent the disease from getting worse.

1. Warning Signs of Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and these symptoms largely depend on the amount of inflammation and the location.

• Abdominal Pain
  Cramps and pain in the abdomen especially when having bowel movements is a sign of ulcerative colitis.
• Diarrhea
  Diarrhea or urgent bowel movements is one of the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis. Diarrhea will also be accompanied by traces of blood in the stool.
• Weight Loss
  In children, chronic inflammation of the colon can lead to loss of appetite and weight.
• Anemia
  The loss of blood through stool can cause anemia.
• Fatigue
  Reduced appetite and weight loss can cause fatigue in people.
• Beyond-the-intestine Symptoms
  Some people may also experience symptoms outside of the colon. The disease may also affect the eyes, skin, and bones, and other parts of the body.

2. Trigger Foods
Certain foods may trigger symptoms, so paying attention to what you eat is important for the management of ulcerative colitis. Here are some foods that can trigger the symptoms.

• Fiber-rich foods
  Foods high in fiber can be a troublemaker if you have ulcerative colitis. Whole-grain bread, cereals, pasta, and legumes like beans, lentils, and peas should be avoided.
• Dairy Products
  For some people who also have lactose intolerance, consuming dairy products such as milk, cream, ice cream, and some cheeses can be a trigger for abdominal pain and diarrhea. Avoiding dairy products to prevent uncomfortable symptoms is essential.
• Nuts and Seeds
  These foods can be hard to digest and can trigger a flare-up. Avoid nuts and seeds like peanuts, walnuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds.
• Insoluble-fiber Foods
  Fruits with skin and seeds and raw green vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach are foods with insoluble fiber that can be hard to digest and trigger symptoms like diarrhea.
• Caffeine
  Caffeine in coffee and carbonated beverages like soda and energy drinks can further aggravate the already inflamed intestinal lining possibly causing abdominal discomfort.
• Unhealthy Fats
  Saturated fats are unhealthy fats that can trigger abdominal pain and other symptoms. Stay away from butter, mayonnaise, margarine, and red meat if they are a trigger for your symptoms.
• Spicy Foods
  Spicy foods contain capsaicin that can irritate the lining of the intestines triggering symptoms.

Not everyone has the same triggers of ulcerative colitis, and you need to track foods that trigger your symptoms. The doctor can help you determine how to live better with ulcerative colitis.