Dietary Management of Ulcerative Colitis: Case Report

Abstract

Genetic makeup, gut microorganisms, autoimmunity and environmental factors are the major risk factors of ulcerative colitis; an inflammatory bowel disease. Because of its severe effects on nutritional status, this case was taken with an aim to improve the nutritional status; with dietary management. An 18 years old adolescent girl was presented to medicine ward of Sheikh Zayed Hospital Lahore with diagnosed ulcerative colitis and presently, she had the complaint of loose stools, nausea/vomiting, decreased appetite and micronutrient deficiencies. Patient’s regimen was formulated on the basis of all presenting complaints to overcome the worsening symptoms and to improve her nutritional status. Planned regimen helped patient in obtaining satisfactory results, her baseline markers and symptoms were compared with her latest ones for proper evaluation. In current case report, consumption of white bread, rice and tapioca pearls was recommended from bread and cereals and the consumption of whole grain or bran products was severely restricted. Use of fibrous vegetables or leafy vegetables was also restricted and the consumption of starchy vegetables was recommended to the patients from the vegetables group. Consumption of fruits without peel was recommended to patient; preferably to consume banana and apple sauce to prevent aggravation in gastrointestinal symptoms whereas the consumption of fruits with high fiber content was restricted. In current case study consumption of lactose free milk and yogurt was recommended to patient whereas consumption of lactose containing milk and milk products was restricted. Dietary management played a very significant role on her nutritional status; thus proper medical nutritional therapy along with lifestyle modification can help in managing ulcerative colitis.