Colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a digestive condition characterized by inflammation of the colon’s inner lining. It is a chronic disorder, meaning there is no cure, but it can be effectively managed, explains Dr. Esteban de Icaza del Río, a gastroenterology and endoscopy specialist at ABC Medical Center.
About 50% of patients living with colitis respond well to medical treatment. For this reason, paying close attention to lifestyle habits is essential, staying adequately hydrated, exercising regularly to stimulate movement in both the large and small intestines, managing stress, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, among others.
Mexico’s Secretaría de Salud (Ministry of Health) reports that between 16% and 30% of the Mexican population suffers from irritable colon or irritable bowel syndrome, commonly known as colitis. It primarily affects women under 45 and is a significant cause of workplace absenteeism due to how debilitating it can be.
Beyond lifestyle habits, diet has the single greatest impact on colitis. What a person eats directly influences gastrointestinal symptoms, making it essential to follow a diet suited to the needs of someone living with this condition.
Three types of diets have been shown to provide meaningful benefits for people with colitis.
The Low-FODMAP Diet
This approach targets the consumption of certain carbohydrates and sugars. These sugars are broken down by bacteria in the intestine through fermentation, which produces gas, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
The Low-FODMAP diet restricts fermentable foods, including certain fruits such as apples, pears, and watermelon, as well as sweeteners derived from fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol (such as certain honeys and sugar alcohols). Vegetables such as asparagus, cauliflower, and onion are also limited.
Gluten-Free Diet
This approach eliminates foods rich in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten, a protein found in these grains, can trigger colon inflammation in some individuals.
Dairy-Free Diet
Dairy products can be difficult to digest. Reducing or eliminating milk, cheese, cream, and similar products can help improve digestive function and ease symptoms.
Foods That Are Well-Tolerated
Given all these restrictions, it’s natural to wonder: what can I actually eat? notes Dr. de Icaza. For people with colitis, protein-based diets tend to work best. Meat, fish, chicken, and eggs are excellent staples. Low-fermentation fruits such as kiwi, papaya, banana, and grapes are also good options, as are vegetables like celery, tomatoes, olives, and spinach.
Dietary changes, while impactful, work best alongside proper medical care, particularly to address the constipation and diarrhea that colitis typically causes.
Consulting a registered dietitian can help you explore the right dietary approach for your situation, while a gastroenterologist can provide symptom management and ongoing care for colitis.
ABC Medical Center’s Nutrition and Obesity Center offers specialized care. Contact us today!
Fuentes:
Dr. Esteban de Icaza del Río – Especialista en gastroenterología y endoscopía del Centro Médico ABC
YouTube Centro Médico ABC
Secretaría de Salud
