Ulcerative Colitis is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that causes inflammation of the colon’s inner lining and the rectal wall and makes it flare up. The flare-up causes abdominal pain, cramping, rectal bleeding, with bloody stool and diarrhea.
Colitis is often confused with IBS and Chron’s disease, but they are different types of digestive disorders with some similarities. The disease sometimes results in life-threatening complications that affect other parts of the body, including the joints, skin, and eyes.
In severe cases, a surgical procedure can eliminate ulcerative colitis which usually involves removing the entire colon and rectum. However, in most of the cases, colitis can be treated naturally by making a few lifestyle changes.
7 Natural Remedies for Ulcerative Colitis
Here is a list of ways to cure and ease the pain of ulcerative colitis.
1. Keep a Food Journal
People with ulcerative colitis should not eat whatever they want, because, ulcerative colitis is triggered by a variety of foods. Thus, it is crucial to evaluate which foods are problematic for you. The experts of ulcerative colitis suggest you keep a food journal for a few weeks until you get to know what foods aggregate your symptoms and what foods soothe them. Make a note of what food you eat throughout the day and the reaction of your body to those foods. This gives you some understanding of your own particular sensitives and intolerances.
2. Drink more liquids
It’s very common that people with ulcerative colitis become dehydrated. Hence, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to protect yourself from dehydration. It is extremely important that dehydrating liquids like alcohol and caffeine are completely avoided.
3. Essential oils
Using essential oils like peppermint, fennel and ginger oils reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms because of their anti-inflammatory properties. Add one or two drops of these oils to the water and apply on the abdomen twice daily.
4. Eat small meals and drink smoothies
Because of cramping is a common issue for ulcerative colitis, try eating small meals throughout the day. It is easier for the digestive system to absorb the nutrients that are needed for the body. Consuming smaller amounts of food reduces pain and provides the body required vitamins and minerals.
5. Spend time in sleep
Sleep keeps the symptoms of ulcerative colitis in remission for both physical and emotional reasons. Sleep helps restore brain energy, increases potential buildup that helps to maintain good body functioning.
6. Fenugreek
Fenugreek, also known as methi helps reduce the symptoms of ulcerative colitis by forming a protective lining along the digestive tract. In addition, fenugreek decreases inflammation and provides essential nutrients as they are rich in Vitamin A and C, calcium, protein, iron and other nutrients.
7. Fish oil
The content of omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil help relieve the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Because omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids, they help reduce inflammation.
In addition to these home remedies for ulcerative colitis, follow some dietary measures like limiting refined carbohydrates and eliminating food allergens from your regular diet.
Don’t neglect, do consult the best doctor for ulcerative colitis if your symptoms are persistent or getting worse.