Foods to avoid with Collogenous Colitis

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing!

For the benefit of our readers, microscopic colitis is the collective term applied to two inflammatory conditions of the colon, collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis.

Unlike irritable bowel syndrome, which is a functional disorder of the colon, microscopic colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease. Both conditions share similar symptoms which can lead to a misdiagnosis.

Treatment of collagenous and lymphocytic colitis is dependent upon the severity of the symptoms. The first approach is to control chronic diarrhea with lifestyle changes. A physician will recommend reducing fat intake and eliminating beverages which contain caffeine and foods containing lactose. Certain medications are thought to increase the risk of microscopic colitis. Avoiding nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen is a recommendation. It is important to inform your physician of the medications which you are taking. If control of diarrhea is not achieved with these changes, a physician will recommend a bismuth subsalicylate such as Pepto-Bismol. If the diarrhea still persists, an anti-inflammatory medication such as sulfasalazine is prescribed. For severe cases of microscopic colitis, a corticosteroid such as Prednisone or budesonide is prescribed.

Anon, it is best for you to see a nutritional consultant in order to establish the best diet for you. Ask for a person who specializes in digestive disorders/IBD.
Best,
Susan