Does Sugar Make Ulcerative Colitis Worse?
My experience of cutting out refined sugar and how it helped with managing ulcerative colitis.
Hi, I'm Cat. This is my story and the reason why I created Really Sugar Free. I hope my experience of cutting out sugar and how it has helped me can help others too.
As someone who has struggled with colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, for years, I can attest to the power of a sugar-free diet in managing symptoms and improving overall health. While there is no cure for colitis, making dietary changes such as cutting out sugar can be a powerful tool in reducing inflammation, managing symptoms, and promoting healing.
I first began experimenting with a sugar-free diet it was while following medical advice to keep a food diary to see what foods were having the greatest effect on colitis symptoms. I wasn't sure what to expect. I had read about the benefits of reducing sugar intake for a variety of health concerns, but I wasn't sure how it would impact my colitis specifically.
However, after just a couple of weeks of cutting out all forms of added sugar from my diet, I began to notice significant improvements in my overall health and well-being.
At first I cut out all sugar including honey as I wasn't sure there was any difference.
One of the most noticeable benefits of a sugar-free diet for me was a reduction in inflammation and pain related to colitis.
Colitis is characterized by inflammation in the colon, and reducing the inflammation can help to alleviate symptoms and promote healing. By cutting out added sugars, which are known to cause inflammation in the body, I was able to reduce the overall burden of inflammation and promote healing in my colon. I did however have withdrawal symptoms for the first few weeks/months. I found personally that natural yogurt really helped me with the sugar cravings.
Another benefit of a sugar-free diet was improved digestive function. With colitis, digestion can be a challenge, and many foods can trigger symptoms like cramping, bloating, and diarrhoea. By eliminating added sugars, I was able to reduce the amount of stress on my digestive system and promote healthy digestion.
I also found that my energy levels improved, and I was able to exercise more easily and without discomfort.
Finally, I found that a sugar-free diet helped me to better manage my colitis symptoms. While I still experience flare-ups from time to time, I have noticed that my symptoms are much less severe when I am eating a diet that is free from refined sugar. This has allowed me to live a more normal life and to focus on the things that matter most to me, rather than being overly affected by my health. I am also able to maintain remission with only minimal medication, and thankfully I have not needed steroids since cutting out sugar.
However everyone is different and the NHS advice to keep a detailed food diary may show different results for others.
Overall, I am incredibly grateful for the benefits of a sugar-free diet in managing my colitis. While it was initially challenging to make such a significant dietary change, the benefits have been well worth the effort. I encourage anyone who is struggling with colitis or other chronic health issues to consider the role that diet may play in managing symptoms and promoting healing.
With the right dietary changes, it is possible to take control of your health and live a more active life.
Here is one example of a medical study showing a relation between refined sugar and colitis: Dietary simple sugars alter microbial ecology in the gut.
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