10 Foods That Help Treat Treat Bowel Disease
Bowel disease, like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, affects the large (colon) and small intestines causing digestive upset, cramps, bloating and changes to bowel movements. The best way to treat this digestive disorder is to talk to your doctor about proper treatments for bowel disease—like chron’s, colitis, IBS, and GERD, and follow a proper diet. To help you, we have listed here some foods to eat for managing bowel disease:
- Vegetables
Vegetables are low in fat and sugar and help reduce the acid content in the stomach. Some fresh vegetables to include in your daily diet are green beans, asparagus, cauliflower, potatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, and cucumbers. - Ginger
Ginger is anti-inflammatory and can reduce gastrointestinal problems. Just slice it up and add it to soups, stews, and curries to enjoy the benefits. This is one of the most helpful foods to eat for managing GERD and can also be added to tea for flavor and health benefits. - Oatmeal
Oatmeal has high fiber content and reduces the acid content in the stomach. Plus, it keeps you feeling full for long and eases digestion. - Banana and other non-citrus fruits
Foods like banana, melons, apples, and pears are non-citrus and are excellent for reducing acid formation in the stomach. However, citrus fruits should be avoided. - Lean meats and seafood
Meats like chicken, fish, turkey, and seafood can minimize the symptoms of acid formation in the stomach. Though these are beneficial foods to eat for people with GERD, ensure that you boil, bake, or roast them instead of frying. - Egg whites
Egg whites are powerful protein sources that can alleviate acid reflux. Skip the egg yolks, though, as they are high in fats and not a good option for people with acid reflux. - Healthy fats
Nuts and other cold-pressed oils like walnut, sunflower, olive, flaxseed, and sesame oils are good for you. Avocadoes can also reduce acid formation in the stomach. Additionally, you should reduce the intake of trans fats and saturated fats. - Popcorn (without butter and salt)
This is a great whole-grain snack option, but only as long as you don’t add that blob of butter. You can flavor it with some grated Parmesan cheese if you want. - Homemade soup
Homemade soups with plenty of healthy vegetables are delicious options to help reduce acid reflux. You can also add chunks of chicken and turkey to the soup. - Tofu
Steamed tofu is a low-fat source of nutrition, but ensure that it is not fried if you want to ease the symptoms of GERD.
For more information, talk to your doctor about medications to help treat bowel disease symptoms—such as Stelara, Entyvio, Otezla, Kesimpta, and Linzess!