As per estimates, 600,000 to 900,000 people in our country have ulcerative colitis, a health condition that affects the large intestine. It impacts men and women equally, and most patients are diagnosed in their mid-30s. Even though there is no definite cure for the ailment, treatment can help manage the symptoms. With proper guidance, many with ulcerative colitis can achieve remission, where symptoms are reduced or eliminated, and lead everyday lives.

Causes
Ulcerative colitis occurs when the body’s immune system, responsible for fighting infections and diseases, mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and ulceration in the colon and rectum. What triggers this faulty immune response is unknown. However, stress, poor food habits, and an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the risk for this condition. It can also result from environmental and genetic factors.

Signs and symptoms
The following are a few indicators that help identify the condition:

Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Rectal bleeding
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Fever
Inability to defecate despite an urge
Dehydration
Malnutrition
Anemia

Through research, doctors suggest that not everyone with ulcerative colitis will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can differ from person to person.

Foods to eat
Specific nutritional changes may relieve the symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups. The following are a few foods that help manage ulcerative colitis:

Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and bananas (peeled and cooked)
Leafy green vegetables like pureed spinach
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna
Lean protein sources like chicken and fish

One’s nutritional needs may vary depending on their symptoms, so it is crucial to consult a healthcare expert for personalized recommendations. Besides eating healthy foods, drinking about eight glasses of water every day is essential.

Natural remedies
Several natural remedies may help alleviate the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, but it is essential to talk to a doctor before trying any of them. Acupuncture, for example, is a technique where experts stimulate specific pressure points on the skin to relieve pain and inflammation. Increasing the intake of probiotics can also help. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria known to increase gut health and reduce inflammation. They can be found in foods like yogurt and kefir. Aloe vera and turmeric also have anti-inflammatory effects and help reduce the symptoms of this health condition.

Treatment options
The treatment of ulcerative colitis usually depends on the severity of the symptoms and the extent of inflammation in the colon. Its primary purpose is to control inflammation, relieve discomfort, and prevent complications. While traditional treatments may work for mild cases, doctors may recommend surgery if there are complications, such as severe bleeding, perforation, or cancer. The expert may remove the colon and rectum (proctocolectomy) and replace them with a pouch to collect stool (ileal pouch-anal anastomosis).

Besides treatment and surgery, healthcare experts recommend stress management techniques, regular exercise, and a healthy food plan to alleviate the symptoms and improve overall health. Working with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best treatment plan for an individual.