Ulcerative colitis is a chronic (ongoing) disease of the colon, or large intestine. According to the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America, the disease is marked by inflammation and ulceration of the colon mucosa, or innermost lining. Tiny open sores, or ulcers, form on the surface of the lining, where they bleed and produce pus and mucus. Because the inflammation makes the colon empty frequently, symptoms typically include diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and often crampy abdominal pain. While ulcerative colitis is not caused by stress, diet or sleep issues, all can affect how the illness manifests itself and how well controlled it may or may not be.
Tips for Relieving Stress
Many patients with ulcerative colitis find that when they are under stress, they experience flare-ups, which can result in feeling tired, run-down and crampy. For those living with ulcerative colitis, dealing with stress becomes even more of a priority. Many find that withdrawing from the stressful situation (if possible) and taking lots of deep breaths can help. Other options include participating in an enjoyable and/or relaxing activity such as reading, walking or cooking – anything to take one’s mind off the situation.
Healthy Eating for Better Living
While research has shown that no one food causes or contributes to ulcerative colitis symptoms, eating a healthy, balanced diet goes a long way toward ensuring one feels at the top of his or her game.
Living with UC.com offers the following tips for better eating:
Don’t skip meals. Try eating several smaller meals during the day instead of three large ones.
Eat a variety of foods from all food groups. The Food Guide Pyramid can explain about the food groups and how much of each you should eat in a day.
Ingest an adequate level of calories, proteins and nutrients each day.
Mind Your Zzzzzzz’s
For those living with ulcerative colitis, sleep can be negatively impacted by muscle fatigue, discomfort and the frequent urge to go to the bathroom. While it can be a challenge to get the recommended amount of sleep, it is vital to overall health and to maintaining proper control of one’s illness.
Here are a few healthy sleep tips that the National Sleep Foundation recommends:
Maintain a regular bed and wake time schedule, including on weekends.
Create a sleep-condusive environment that is dark, quiet, comfortable and cool.
Finish eating at least two to three hours before one’s regular bedtime.
One Step, One Day at a Time
Living with ulcerative colitis can be a challenge but with a few daily lifestyle modifications, the illness becomes a lot more manageable and life a lot more fun. Enjoy stress-reducing activities, eat carefully and often, and sleep well, and soon you’ll be on your way to better control.
