Home - health - 8 Foods To Avoid For Multiple Sclerosis

8 Foods to Avoid for Multiple Sclerosis

8 Foods to Avoid for Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition wherein one’s immune system attacks the central nervous system. It is an inflammatory and autoimmune condition affecting speech, vision, and mobility. Persistent fatigue, tremors, vision issues, osteoporosis, and bladder problems are common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The food one consumes plays a significant role in managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Certain foods help improve symptoms and protect patients from frequent infections. This article discusses foods to avoid for multiple sclerosis.

Impact of multiple sclerosis on the body
MS occurs when the immune system harms the myelin, which is the protective coating of neurons in the brain and central nervous system. MS can result from demyelination, inflammation, loss of neurons, or gliosis. Lesions form in various regions of the central nervous system, causing symptoms to manifest based on the affected nerves. Environmental factors, infections, genetic factors, and a defective immune system can cause MS. The typical symptoms of MS include:

Progressing weakness in one or several limbs
Stiffness
Weakness
Imbalance
Double vision
Atrophy in the optic nerve
Fatigue
Chronic headache
Short-term memory loss
Lack of concentration
Problems in chewing and swallowing
Constipation
Diarrhea
Bladder problems
Impotence
Lack of interest in sexual activity

The intensity of symptoms differs from one person to another. While some may experience these symptoms and go through a phase of no symptoms for many months or years, some may experience symptoms many times a year. Oral prescription treatment, physical therapy, exercise, and healthy meal plans are common management techniques for MS.

Foods to avoid for multiple sclerosis
Consuming foods that strengthen the immune system and prevent inflammation can benefit those with MS. Conversely, foods that exacerbate symptoms, promote inflammation, and weaken immunity should be avoided. MS is an autoimmune condition, so it’s important to be mindful of what one eats. Some of the foods that one should avoid are:

Saturated fats
Saturated fats remain solid at room temperature and can form a deposit in the blood vessels when consumed in large quantities. The main source of saturated fats is animal products and animal by-products, red meat, and dairy. Saturated fats increase the level of LDL cholesterol and trigger inflammation. Since people with MS are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol levels put them at risk for hypertension, atherosclerosis, and stroke.

Trans fats
Liquid oils converted into solid fats are called trans fats and are one of the worst fats for one’s health. It is naturally available in dairy and red meat and may not cause much harm. Artificially produced trans fat commonly used in packaged and fried food cause the most harm as it increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. People with MS should avoid foods like:

Packed cookies and snacks
Bread and crackers
Frozen foods
Fast food

Read the ingredients list and do not buy products that contain shortening or ‘hydrogenated fat’ – a name that denotes trans fats.

Sugar
Sugar causes inflammation, which can impact an MS patient with mobility issues. Too much sugar can also lead to fatigue. A sugar craving and indulgence can cause mood changes and depression, which is common in people with MS. Though there is no need to avoid sugar completely, it is important to monitor the amount of sugar one eats and change to healthier options like fruits to curb sugar cravings.

Salt
Though salt does not cause MS or worsen existing symptoms, it can contribute to hypertension and high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to limit salt consumption to less than 2,300 milligrams if one does not have any pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. If one has a history of hypertension, one must restrict the amount of salt to 1500 milligrams daily.

Refined carbs
Refined carbs and refined grains can cause a spike in sugar levels and damage the myelin sheath, weakening signals and leading to neural dysfunction. Avoid food like pasta, bread, and other cookies and snacks that are made with refined flour. Switch to alternatives like whole grain pasta, bread, and snacks rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. If intolerant to gluten, one must avoid grains like wheat, barley, and rye.

Processed foods
Processed foods and meats contain high preservatives like nitrates and other synthetic additives. These additives interfere with the immune system and could damage gut bacteria and intestinal muscles. Since MS is an autoimmune disease, any disruption to the immune system can worsen the symptoms of MS. It is best to switch to a meal plan with high amounts of fresh food.

Caffeine
Overactive bladder is a common impact of MS, where one may not be able to empty the bladder fully. A person may have to urinate frequently, which can worsen at night. Since caffeine is a diuretic, it can further worsen the symptoms, making it impossible to have a good night’s sleep. Therefore, a person with MS should avoid coffee, green tea, chocolate, and other beverages like sodas with added caffeine.

Dairy
Butyrophilin and bovine serum albumin – two proteins found in cow’s milk can confuse the immune system and cause it to attack the myelin sheath, leading to demyelination. Avoiding dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream can be beneficial and prevent further damage to the myelin. One can choose plant-based milk alternatives like cashew milk, soy milk, rice, or oats milk. However, one must avoid plant-based milk that may contain oils, such as coconut milk.

Common tips for managing multiple sclerosis
A combination of structured treatment, meal plans, lifestyle changes, and exercises can help maintain a healthy body and prevent osteoporosis. A balanced meal plan rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins is best for people with MS. Here are a few tips to follow while preparing meals:

Replace saturated fats with plant-based oils and unsaturated fats

Eat foods rich in Vitamin B, and E

Eat five portions of vegetables and fruits

Avoid eating fried food that is roasted, boiled, or steamed

Avoid red meat and choose lean meats rich in vitamins, iron, and zinc

Replace white bread with whole-grain bread

Drink adequate quantities of water to prevent dehydration and cleanse the toxins in the body.

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

10 Best Times to Drink Water

We all know how important it is to drink water daily to maintain our overall health and well-being. You can drink it hot, ice cold, or in other ways to satiate your thirst. Some also enjoy it infused with fruit. But did you know that drinking water can significantly impact your body? So join us as we break down the top ten best times to drink water during the day to meet your hydration goals. When you feel hungry You may think you are hungry, but you might be thirsty. Often, people do not realize that they are thirsty when they feel hungry. The brain tends to recognize both of these triggers as similar. So, before you scour through your pantry, drink some water. Wait a few minutes, and you will see how it satiates your urge to eat. When you wake up Instead of reaching out for your morning coffee, drink a glass or two of water first. Naturally, you did not drink any water in your sleep. So when you wake up, you are already dehydrated. Hence, having water when you wake up can help. You can also have coffee after hydrating yourself. The good news is that coffee also counts as fluid, and while a caffeinated beverage is usually dehydrating, moderate quantities of it do not leave you dehydrated. That said, coffee cannot replace water. Before meals Drinking a glass of water before any meal can be an excellent strategy for anyone who tends to overeat. Drinking water makes you feel somewhat fuller, reduces the amount of food you have, and prevents overeating. It is better if it is iced water. It is because chilly temperatures slow down digestion and lower your appetite. During meals Drinking water during meals aids in digestion. It helps soften the food, making it easier to digest and also helps avoid constipation. But do not drink excessive water during meals, as it dilutes stomach acid, which is crucial for breaking down food. Ideally, you should slowly sip water during meals to avoid overconsumption. Before a workout Hydration is imperative while you work out. Often, people only consume water after completing several sets of body workouts and cardio. But taking some sips of water before you start a physical activity is recommended. It keeps you from getting dizzy and dehydrated. Hence, always drink some water before you start your daily workout. After a workout Once you complete your workout, drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body. It also replenishes your muscles and body with minerals. Of course, the amount of water you consume depends on the temperature outside and your body weight, but drinking a glass of water is safe to replenish your energy levels and regulate your blood pressure. Before bedtime You lower the risk of stroke and heart attack if you hydrate yourself before bed and sleep, as dehydration increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Without realizing it, you might experience mild dehydration along with endothelial impairment. These changes occur when dehydration reaches a level of less than two percent, approximately the point where individuals typically begin to feel thirsty. Dehydration has a negative impact on your mood, which can be bad for your overall sleep cycle. Thus, it always helps to have some water before going to bed. Drink your last glass of water at least an hour before bed. It will save you from bathroom trips in the middle of the night. When you feel stressed Dehydration and stress are two independent factors that raise your cortisol levels. These can trigger unpleasant stress symptoms like fatigue, high blood pressure, and headaches. Often, people forget to stay hydrated or eat well when they are stressed. It only increases stress. Thus, when stressed, you are more susceptible to dehydration. Similarly, if you are dehydrated, you have a higher chance of feeling stressed. Hence, whenever you experience a stressful situation, take a few deep breaths, sit down, and have a big glass of water. When you have a headache One of the best remedies for a headache is hydration. When you consume caffeine in large quantities, your body feels dehydrated. It can result in headaches. Further, when you do not have adequate fluids in the body, it can lead to electrolyte imbalance, a common trigger for headaches. Thus, drinking some water after a caffeinated beverage helps balance things out and alleviates a headache. It will rehydrate your body and replenish the lost electrolytes. Therefore, the next time you experience a headache, drink some water.Moreover, if you have migraines or headaches, you must continue to take small sips of water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle and drink a few sips every few hours. Whenever you feel a headache coming on, immediately drink a glass of water. It can prevent the pain from aggravating. Mid-afternoon, when energy levels go down Experiencing a decline in energy levels during the mid-afternoon, often referred to as the mid-afternoon dip, is a common occurrence typically observed around 3 p.m. Usually, it compels people to get a cup of coffee to push through the rest of the day. However, coffee can harm your sleep cycle. Taking caffeine even six hours before bedtime can disrupt your sleep cycle, just like having a sugary snack that leads to a sudden energy crash after a quick spike. So, instead of resorting to these solutions, tackle the underlying issue, which is dehydration. Beyond fatigue, dehydration also leads to feelings of depression, confusion, hostility, and anger. Thus, drinking water can be crucial.

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