Home - health - 16 Foods That Help Boost The Immune System

16 foods that help boost the immune system

16 foods that help boost the immune system

A strong immune system is important to maintain one’s health. While there is no magical cure against infections, building immunity can help prevent several illnesses, or recover faster. Adding a variety of foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to one’s meals can help strengthen the immune system to fight off infection-causing pathogens. Here are 16 foods that can enhance immunity and help prevent illnesses.

Red bell peppers
Red bell peppers are one of the richest sources of vitamin C. A 100-gram serving of red bell pepper contains about 127.7 mg of vitamin C, which is 159 percent of one’s recommended daily intake. They are also a rich source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A. Due to their high vitamin content, red bell peppers are excellent for boosting immunity. Moreover, vitamin C helps keep skin healthy, while vitamin A contributes to healthy skin and eyes.

Blueberries
Blueberries contain a particular flavonoid called anthocyanin. This has potent antioxidant properties, which help strengthen the immune system, especially in the respiratory tract. According to studies, those who consume a healthy dose of flavonoids regularly are less likely to develop an upper respiratory tract infection in comparison to others.

Broccoli
A popular superfood, broccoli is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, fiber, and antioxidants, which help fortify immunity. To get the maximum benefit of its nutritional content, it is advisable to gently cook broccoli (by steaming or microwaving) or consume it raw.

Spinach
Spinach is another superfood that is packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and flavonoids. These nutrients and antioxidants help strengthen the immune system. It is advisable to lightly cook spinach to release nutrients from oxalic acid and for the easier absorption of vitamin A.

Ginger
A commonly used ingredient in recipes and healing traditions across the world, ginger has several anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. It contains gingerol, which can help reduce inflammation and sore throat and fight nausea. It may also help decrease chronic pain and reduce cholesterol.

Garlic
Garlic is another traditionally used ingredient. It contains sulfur-rich compounds such as allicin, which can help fight infections and slow down the hardening of the arteries. It may even help lower blood pressure levels.

Yogurt
Some types of yogurt contain live, active cultures, which act as probiotics and improve gut health. They may also strengthen the immune system to fight diseases. When buying yogurt, look for variants that have been fortified with vitamin D as it helps regulate the immune system. Further, for optimal nutrition, opt for plain yogurts without any added sugars. Turn it into a healthy midday snack option by adding some fruits and/or a drizzle of honey to it.

Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are packed with nutrients such as phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, and vitamins B6 and E. These nutrients help regulate and support the immune system and keep infections at bay.

Turmeric
Its anti-inflammatory properties make turmeric a great addition to food and traditional home remedies alike. It has been used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These properties can be accorded to its main active ingredient, curcumin, which acts as an immunity booster. According to research, it may also help reduce exercise-related muscle damage.

Green tea
Green and black teas are rich in flavonoids, which can help strengthen the immune system. Green tea also contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has antioxidant and antiviral properties that help boost immunity levels.

Papaya
Papayas are a rich source of vitamin C and they also contain potassium, magnesium, and folate, which can help improve immunity. The enzyme found in papaya, called papain, also has anti-inflammatory effects.

Kiwi
Kiwis are another rich source of antioxidants and essential nutrients such as folate, potassium, and vitamins K and C, which help support the immune system and prevent infections.

Chicken and turkey
Poultry such as chicken and turkey are a rich source of vitamin B6, which can help reduce inflammation and improve immunity. Vitamin B6 also plays a crucial role in the formation of new red blood cells. For improved benefits, make stock or broth by boiling leftover chicken bones in water. The bones contain gelatin, chondroitin, and other nutrients, which can help improve gut health and bolster immunity.

Almonds
Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E and healthy fats. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant, which can help support the immune system. A half-cup serving of almonds can give adults their daily recommended intake of vitamin E (15 mg).

Citrus fruits
Vitamin C is vital for strengthening the immune system. Research suggests that it increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells. Citrus fruits such as grapefruits, oranges, tangerines, lemons, and limes are some of the best sources of vitamin C. Since the body does not produce or store vitamin C, it is important to watch one’s daily consumption and meet the recommended amounts (90 mg for adult men and 75 mg for adult women).

Fish
Different varieties of fish can help boost immune function and improve overall health. These include:

  • Fatty fish: Fatty fish such as albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, sardines, and trout, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Shellfish: Some types of shellfish such as oysters, crabs, lobsters, and mussels are rich sources of zinc, which supports the immune system. However, for optimal immune function, it is advisable to meet the daily recommended intake for zinc (11 grams for adult men, and 8 grams for most adult women) and avoid overconsumption.

It is important to watch one’s fish intake closely, as some fish may contain traces of mercury or other contaminants that may cause poisoning in fetuses and children. Pregnant women must consult their doctors before adding fish to their meal plans.

Apart from these foods, some other immune system-boosting foods include strawberries, elderberries, sweet potatoes, button mushrooms, acai berries, miso, pomegranates, avocados, and watermelons.

Previous Read

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It's an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It's rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease. Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers. You can eat them raw with a dip, mix them into your salad, or enjoy them as an appetizer. Some people also like roasting bell peppers and using them as a topping for lettuce salads or sandwiches. Olive oil It contains healthy fat and has anti-inflammatory properties. Since it is monosaturated fat, it stays stable even at higher temperatures as you cook. Thus, switching to extra virgin olive oil can give you more antioxidants while you still enjoy your favorite dish. Green vegetables Leafy veggies like spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, and cabbage are hydrating, low in calories, and have high antioxidant and vitamin content. If you wish to be cautious about your mineral levels, you must opt for cabbage and arugula, which are nutrient-rich and lower in sodium, potassium, phosphorous, and calcium. In addition, kale and spinach have a high potassium content, which is ok for people seeking to improve their kidney health, but best for those already dealing with chronic kidney disease. Blueberries They are called superfoods because they are rich in antioxidants and are a low-calorie Vitamin-C and fiber source. You can stock them in abundance from your local grocery store or farmer’s market. You can also shop for frozen berries in the off-season and enjoy healthy smoothies. People with kidney diseases can also eat other berries like raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries. Apples Apples are low in potassium and rich in fiber when you eat them with peel. They also have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and are ideal for your kidneys. Foods to avoid Soda Soda has zero nutritional benefits and instead has high sugar content. It only adds to the extra calories. Some studies link high soda consumption to conditions like kidney disease, osteoporosis, dental problems, and metabolic syndrome. If you opt for their lower calorie alternative like coke zero, even that will do you no good, as it has no nutritional value and contains artificial sweeteners and additives. Hence, you must omit soda and opt for healthy beverages like water. If you do not enjoy plain water, add a slice or two of fresh fruit for added flavor. Avocados Avocadoes are known for their many nutritious qualities. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Even though consuming avocado is often considered healthy, people with kidney disease must avoid it as avocados have a high potassium content. An average-sized avocado has about 690 mg of potassium. If you love the taste and do not want to eliminate it, you can reduce the portion size to only 1/4th of the avocado. In addition, it will lower potassium intake.  Salty foods Sodium or salt is one of the most prevalent inclusions in foods you consume daily. However, their density is higher in processed foods. Salt results in water retention and may cause blood pressure, lung, and heart disease. Healthy kidneys work towards maintaining the correct fluid balance in the body. So, if your kidneys do not function as desired, the fluid balance may be disturbed. Hence, you must curtail sodium-rich foods like processed foods, packaged items, and soy sauce. When cooking meals at home, opt for low-sodium alternatives. You can replace salt with spices and herbs and keep the salt shaker off the table. Dairy Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, ice cream, and milk are rich in protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. They also contain potassium and phosphorous. People with stage three kidney disease might want to curtail their potassium, phosphorous, and protein intake, which is high in dairy. So, you can instead reach out for dairy alternatives like rice, soy, or almond milk as they have lower potassium, phosphorous, and protein content than cow’s milk. Bananas Though naturally low in sodium, bananas' potassium content is significantly high. So, to ensure your kidney disease does not aggravate, monitor your potassium intake, and it might be challenging if the banana is your staple. Conclusion Whatever you eat or drink will affect your health regardless of any health issue. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and following a balanced meal plan are prerequisites to staying fit and controlling blood sugar levels. A kidney-healthy meal plan is less about eliminating certain foods but following portion control and finding a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Next Read

12 common signs of a weak immune system

The immune system's function is to protect the body from harmful substances and germs. It works to prevent different health disorders and infections. However, when the immune system weakens, one may experience several symptoms. This can happen due to poor nutrition, stress, aging, or health conditions. These symptoms are not always indicative of a weak immune system. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a primary care doctor whenever any of these are experienced. Frequent infections One of the primary signs of a weakened immune system is frequent infections. When the immune system loses its strength, it produces fewer white blood cells and antibodies, which are essential in battling pathogens that cause infectious diseases. A person with a deficiency of these substances becomes highly vulnerable to frequent infections, including sinus infections, colds, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. Wounds that heal very slowly Under healthy circumstances, an injury such as a cut, burn, or scrape makes the skin go into damage control mode. The body responds by sending blood that contains essential nutrients, white blood cells, and antibodies to the affected area, which kickstarts the healing process. As a result, new skin starts to regenerate. However, the healing rate depends on the immune cells' health. If the immune system is weak, the functions of the body slow down, and the regeneration process can become sluggish, leading to delayed wound healing. Chronic fatigue If a person's immune system is weak, they may experience chronic fatigue, which feels similar to the exhaustion caused by the flu. This may indicate that their body's defenses are low. Symptoms include body pain and aches in muscles and joints, accompanied by a persistent feeling of exhaustion. Sometimes the fatigue is so severe that even basic daily activities become difficult. Rest or sleep may not alleviate the constant tiredness. Frequent oral infections The main function of the immune system is to fight off and kill bacteria that attack the body, including the mouth. When a person experiences recurring oral infections like gingivitis, canker sores, oral thrush, and periodontal disease, it may be a sign of a weakened immune system. These inflammatory diseases arise when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth, which the immune system is unable to fight off effectively, resulting in frequent infections. Recurrent digestive issues The gut is an important part of the digestive system that gets everything going. It works efficiently when there is a healthy number of good bacteria present. But, if the immune system is compromised, there is an imbalance in the number of good bacteria. So frequent stomach aches, diarrhea, gas, constipation, or other digestive problems become common complaints. The symptoms can last for more than a few days or even weeks. Frequent allergies When the immune system is compromised, it undergoes mild to drastic changes. Due to this, it is possible to be susceptible to frequent allergies. These can be triggered by dust, pollen, animal dander, certain chemicals in the air, and pollution. These symptoms may be new to most people and only occur when their immune system is compromised due to a health condition. As a result, they start experiencing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, nasal blockage, irritation in the throat and nose, headaches, and watery eyes. Mild fever If an individual is experiencing an elevated body temperature, it may indicate that the immune system is working harder than usual. This could be due to an impending infection or a potential flare-up of an autoimmune disorder. Headaches Headaches can sometimes be linked to the immune system. One possible cause is vasculitis, which occurs when a blood vessel becomes inflamed due to an infection or autoimmune disorder. Onset of autoimmune diseases Autoimmune diseases are immune system disorders. There are more than a hundred known autoimmune disorders. Some common ones include Crohn's disease, lupus, ulcerative colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions occur when the immune system either becomes abnormally low or hyperactive. This causes the body to mistakenly attack its own healthy tissues and blood cells, which can lead to serious damage. The onset of an autoimmune health disorder can be a sign of a weak immune system. Slow recovery from any illness The immune system produces immune cells. These cells have nutrients such as proteins and other substances such as white blood cells. These help the body recover from illnesses like flu, cold, infections, and other health issues. But, if the immune system is weak, the production of immune cells becomes slow. There is a deficiency in the production of white blood cells. Moreover, the essential nutrients are unable to flow through the body efficiently. As a result, the body is unable to get back to a healthy state quickly after any type of sickness. Increased susceptibility to skin infections Those who have a weak immune system may experience frequent skin infections. They become susceptible to infections caused by bacteria and parasites that cause itching and rashes. Some people also experience Behcet's disease, dermatitis herpetiformis, dermatomyositis, and lichen planus. While these infections are rare under healthy circumstances, a compromised immune system cannot fight off these infection-causing pathogens. Prominent hair loss Immune cells released by the immune system play a vital role in the growth and regeneration of hair follicles. These cells contain protein, which is a key component of hair. If one's immune system is weak or compromised, it can affect hair growth and lead to weaker hair follicles, causing hair loss. While it's normal to lose about 100 strands of hair a day, excessive hair loss can be a cause for concern, especially if one finds clumps of hair in one's hand. If one experiences sudden or significant hair loss that can't be attributed to other factors, it may be related to a weakened immune system.

Trending Articles

01

All About Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the top causes of vision loss in people aged sixty and older. It is a disease that hampers your sharp, central vision. Central vision is pivotal to helping you see objects clearly and do tasks like driving and reading. AMD impairs your macula, the part of the eye that helps you see fine detail. It is not painful, but it kills the cells in the macula. It starts with blurred vision, but you gradually lose central sight. Seeing crooked lines is one of the initial AMD signs. In this guide, we will discuss everything related to AMD in detail. Types of AMD Dry People with dry AMD have drusen or yellow spots in the macula. Small drusen might not necessarily impair your vision, but as they grow in size and increase in number, they distort and dim your vision, especially as you read. Over time the condition worsens, and the light-sensitive cells in the macula get thinner and die eventually. If it is in the atrophic form, you will experience a blind spot in the center of the vision. Consequently, it worsens, and you lose central sight. Wet Blood vessels grow below the macula.
02

9 Laundry Detergents for Fresh Smelling Clothes

There’s nothing worse than putting on a shirt that smells of body odor or rancid sweat. It’s even more frustrating when you wash it and it still smells terrible. Many people are looking for ways to keep their clothes smelling great without using harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a laundry detergent that keeps your clothes smelling fresh, we have some suggestions for you. Keep reading to find the perfect laundry detergent for your needs. Method Laundry Detergent With Method Laundry Detergent, you can enjoy your laundry experience while knowing that you’re doing good for the environment. This plant-based detergent uses 66 loads worth of stain-lifting power to clean your clothes, while the fresh air scent of lavender and cypress will leave them smelling great. Moreover, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about using it. This mild detergent has an effective formula that is both safe for you and the environment, and it is reasonably priced at $14.49 for 53.5 fl oz. Additionally, it comes with various fresh scents to choose from, so you can enjoy clean and fragrant clothes without harsh chemicals. ZUM Frankincense & Myrrh Laundry Detergent This detergent is made with gentle ingredients, sensitive launderers in mind, and a mix of saponified coconut oil and deep-cleansing agents to lift stains and leave your clothes smelling great.
03

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition threatening one’s eyesight and general health. In AMD, the macula, the part of the eye that helps produce the most detailed and sharpest vision, starts to break down and thin, resulting in vision loss. It is one of the most prevalent causes of blindness in people aged 60 or older. Though there is no definite cure for AMD, some things can postpone its onset or lower its severity. Being aware of family history Family history and genetics are one of the leading causes of AMD. So, if you have a first-degree relative with AMD, your chances of developing it are also higher. Hence, you must be vigilant and educate yourself on the potential AMD signs, such as the inability to adapt to low light conditions, difficulty identifying faces, and straight lines looking wavy. Knowledge of these symptoms can help you reach out to an ophthalmologist and get timely treatment while AMD is still in an early stage. Getting routine comprehensive medical checkups In the early stages of AMD, you might not experience any symptoms. Hence, routine comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help with timely diagnosis and treatment. It holds even for adults 40 or older with no risk factors or signs because this is when you may develop early AMD symptoms or experience changes in vision.
04

Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Dental implants are a major surgical procedure. Hence, you must take the necessary post-operative measures to ensure a speedy recovery. One of the first things you will feel after the surgery is hunger, as dental implants demand abstaining from food for six hours since the procedure temporarily impacts your chewing ability. So, you must adhere to selective foods and avoid some, especially for two weeks. Therefore, here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid: Foods to eat Smoothies In the initial days post-surgery, you may be unable to chew your favorite food. So, the next best thing is drinking it as a smoothie. Smoothies are wholesome and tasty meals. You can make them with whatever vegetable or fruits you like, ensuring they have a high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins. Muffins You might be unable to eat the muffins on the first or the second-day post-surgery, but after the initial few days, you can easily enjoy a good muffin. They are easy to chew and are very delicious. Hence, they can be an incredible snack or breakfast option following dental implant surgery. Potatoes They are versatile and soft. You can prepare them in different ways. So, even if you eat the same ingredient, you will not get bored.

Our Blogs

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.
Read More
13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.
Read More
Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.
Read More
What is Eczema and How to Treat It

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.
Read More
Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps – Symptoms, Triggers, and Management

Nasal Polyps are a significantly underrated problem. Most people only experience minor symptoms, so the polyps are often left untreated until they cause more problems. This article will look at the triggers, symptoms, and management of nasal polyps in more detail. We will start by looking at nasal polyps and what causes them. Finally, we will look at the best ways to treat nasal polyps to ensure that one gets rid of them quickly and safely. What are nasal polyps? Nasal polyps are benign growths on the nasal septum, the cartilage that separates one’s nose from the throat. They’re usually harmless but can cause problems if they block the nasal airway or make breathing difficult. Symptoms of nasal polyps Following are some symptoms of nasal polyps: Headaches Nasal polyps may cause headaches due to their enlarged blood vessels in the skull. The pressure from these enlarged vessels may cause pain behind one’s eyes or along the temples. Snoring Snoring is often caused by an obstruction of airflow through the nose during sleep. This obstruction causes the throat to vibrate, producing a noise known as snoring. Nasal congestion When mucus accumulates in the nose due to blocked airflow, it can cause nasal congestion and an unpleasant smell called rhinorrhea (a discharge from the nose).
Read More
10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

10 Effective Tips for Managing Ulcerative Colitis

Chronic inflammation of the large intestine, or ulcerative colitis , is a devastating and exhausting disease that can wreak havoc on every aspect of one’s life. From physical health to mental well-being, ulcerative colitis can take a toll on overall health if left untreated. Here are simple ways to manage ulcerative colitis. By following them under a doctor’s supervision, you can take back control of life and manage the condition better. What is ulcerative colitis? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. UC acts on the innermost walls of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is a chronic condition that can last for months or even years. Types of ulcerative colitis Ulcerative proctitis is the most common type and accounts for about two-thirds of all UC cases. People with this type have frequent episodes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Ulcers may form in the rectum or anus. Proctosigmoiditis is less common than ulcerative proctitis but affects more people overall because it causes more severe symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Extensive colitis/pancolitis occurs when inflammation spreads beyond the rectum or anus to other parts of the gastrointestinal tract (large intestine and small intestine).
Read More