What dietary restriction is recommended for patients with Ulcerative Colitis?

For patients with Ulcerative Colitis, a low-residue diet is recommended to help manage the condition. This dietary approach aims to minimize the amount of fiber in the diet to reduce the bulk of stool. A low-residue diet limits high-fiber foods, allowing for easier digestion and potentially reducing bowel movements, which can be particularly beneficial during flare-ups of the disease.

Patients with Ulcerative Colitis may experience increased gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea, especially during active disease phases. Following a low-residue diet can help alleviate symptoms by reducing the work of the intestines, thereby minimizing inflammation and irritation of the bowel lining.

In contrast, high-residue and high-fiber options can exacerbate symptoms by increasing stool bulk and intestinal activity, which could lead to more significant discomfort for patients. Calorie-dense diets, while important for nutritional support, do not specifically address the issues associated with Ulcerative Colitis and do not promote the health of the intestines in the same way that a low-residue approach can during active disease management.