during a flare-up the large intestines become inflamed causing diarrhea and discomfort. many experts recommend going on a non-residue diet -- one that eliminates foods that are difficult to digest or that contain indigestible fiber. that means avoiding fruits and vegetables nuts and seeds and whole grains. some doctors recommend a liquid diet during severe flare-ups. with no food passing through the large intestines the bowels have time to heal. a low-residue diet is also recommended for people who have developed a narrowing of the lower small intestine called the ileum. keep in mind that no two people respond the same way. "some patients do well on a low-fiber low-residue diet but every patient is different " says david t. rubin md co-director of the inflammatory bowel disease center at the university of chicago.
what should i eat during a flare-up of ulcerative colitis symptoms?