3. Caffeine
Caffeine is not a great choice for those with ulcerative colitis for many reasons.
Firstly, caffeine is diuretic. This means that it encourages us to urinate and to empty our bowels – not great when you already have an issue that is forcing you to constantly run to the toilet! This is also a big problem considering that you are likely to be struggling with dehydration if you have a very serious bout.
At the same time, caffeine also increases the fight or flight response – further encouraging bowel movements – and it is vasoconstriction that can impair blood flow and which might even cause more contraction around the colon. Small amounts of caffeine are unlikely to be a problem, but having that third cappuccino from Starbucks is likely a bad move.