The Best Warm Weather Foods for Sufferers of Ulcerative Colitis

Understand the human colon and the processes involved in digestion to see why these tips on selecting warm weather foods will keep ulcerative colitis sufferers healthy and active. Warm weather brings out our desire for salt, liquids, and high-energy sources containing fat and sugar. Sports parks thrive on alcohol and junk and the smell of barbecue will drive anyone to hunger. Recipes with high fat and sugar can cause problems. Healing can be enhanced with traditional medicinal treatments.

Digestive System

A very brief discussion of the digestive system is as follows: as food enters the stomach, mucus, water, bile, and enzymes are added to the food. Motion of the system impels the food further along. The bile and enzymes serve to break down the food into a form the system can absorb with ease. Mucus protects the lining of the stomach and intestines. Water keeps the acidity of the contents dilute. Various organs release bile to process fats. [1]

What to Drink in Warm Weather if You Suffer from Ulcerative Colitis

Water and lots of it. Keep a water bottle. If traveling, buy water at the grocery store to protect from changing amounts of minerals that can upset the colon.
Water helps keep bulking agents soft and less likely to get stuck in pockets, along polyps, and damaging the colon.

Mint Ice Tea. Mint is one of the flavors that provide the same alertness affects of caffeine without the irritation. Mint is a traditional medicinal remedy for stomach upset. Additionally teas made with nettles and/or lemon balm can provide additional benefits. Nettles are noted for their ability to stop bleeding. Lemon balm is known for its calming effects. [2] Brew tea by the gallon and save in the refrigerator. Use an ounce of cranberry juice to sweeten tea if needed.
A sprig of fresh pineapple mint or spearmint can add zing.

Salt Needs in Warm Weather if You Suffer from Ulcerative Colitis