- A little planning and smart menu swaps can make eating out with ulcerative colitis less stressful.
- Opt for cooked vegetables, lean proteins and lower-fat choices when dining out.
- Watch for spices or other trigger ingredients, which can often be left out.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory bowel disease. Because it affects the gastrointestinal tract, many people with UC may feel hesitant to try new foods or expand their diet, fearing symptoms such as stomach pain, gas, bloating or frequent and urgent bowel movements.
Dining out with UC can feel especially intimidating. Many restaurant dishes may contain ingredients that could trigger symptoms, and the availability of a nearby restroom isn’t always certain. But having UC doesn’t mean you have to avoid restaurants altogether….