Here are the worst foods for colitis

High-fat fried foods like french fries, fried chicken, and onion rings can be difficult to digest and may worsen diarrhea, bloating, and inflammation. The oils used in frying can irritate the gut lining and trigger flare-ups.

Corn is high in insoluble fiber and can be difficult to break down, leading to bloating and irritation. Corn-based foods like tortillas, chips, and popcorn may also worsen symptoms.

Many people with colitis are lactose intolerant, meaning dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Even if lactose is tolerated, dairy proteins may still contribute to inflammation.

Meats like bacon, sausage, deli meats, and hot dogs contain preservatives, nitrates, and high amounts of saturated fat, all of which may contribute to inflammation and digestive distress. These meats can be hard to digest and trigger flare-ups.

Chocolate contains caffeine, sugar, and sometimes dairy, all of which can irritate the digestive system. The caffeine in chocolate may stimulate bowel movements, worsening diarrhea.

Foods like lentils, black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans are high in fiber and difficult to digest. They often cause gas, bloating, and cramping, which can exacerbate colitis symptoms.

These are high in FODMAPs, a group of fermentable carbohydrates that can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Many people with colitis find that avoiding onions and garlic reduces symptoms.

Popcorn is high in insoluble fiber and can be harsh on the digestive tract, potentially causing irritation and blockages in people with colitis. It can lead to bloating, gas, and increased stool frequency.

Spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, and hot sauces can irritate the digestive tract, leading to increased inflammation, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. They may also worsen acid reflux, which can be common in people with colitis.

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain insoluble fiber, which can be hard to digest and cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Cooking them may make them easier to tolerate, but they can still be problematic.

Wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten, which may trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals. While not all people with colitis are gluten intolerant, some find relief by avoiding gluten-containing foods like bread, pasta, and cereals.

Sugar substitutes like sorbitol, aspartame, and sucralose, found in sugar-free gum, candy, and diet drinks, are poorly absorbed by the intestines. They can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea, worsening colitis symptoms.

Tomato sauce, ketchup, and salsa are acidic and may irritate the gut lining, leading to increased discomfort and diarrhea. They can also worsen acid reflux, which may be an issue for some people with colitis.

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are highly acidic and can irritate the intestines. They may worsen diarrhea and abdominal pain, particularly during flare-ups.

While fiber is generally healthy, whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa can be too rough on the gut during a flare-up. The insoluble fiber in these grains may worsen diarrhea and cramping.

Apples, pears, berries, and grapes with skins and seeds can be hard to digest due to their high fiber content. Peeling fruits and eating them in moderation may help reduce irritation.

Chips, packaged pastries, and fast food items often contain unhealthy fats, preservatives, and artificial additives that can trigger inflammation and digestive discomfort. They are typically low in nutrients and difficult to digest.

Whole nuts and seeds, including almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds, are difficult to digest and can irritate the intestinal lining. They are high in insoluble fiber, which may worsen diarrhea and discomfort.

Fatty cuts of beef, pork, and lamb can be difficult to digest and may promote inflammation due to their high saturated fat content. Leaner cuts or alternative protein sources may be better tolerated.