Some people may find milk aggravates the symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC). They may wish to try alternative types of milk, such as oat or soy. However, people need to be mindful of getting enough calcium if they choose to avoid dairy products.

UC is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urgent and frequent bowel movements.

This article defines UC and explains how diet can affect symptoms. It also discusses which types of milk to avoid and consume and provides other dietary tips.

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People with UC may experience flares and periods of remission.

While there is no evidence to suggest that any particular food or diet causes, prevents, or cures IBD, certain foods may cause a person’s symptoms to worsen during a flare.

UC symptoms can alsoTrusted Source reduce appetite and lower a person’s food intake, potentially resulting in a lack of nutrients. In children, this nutrient deficiency may affect growth and development.

This means it is important for someone with UC to follow a nutritious, well-balanced diet. If a person finds they cannot eat certain foods, choosing options that are fortified with added vitamins and minerals can help.

For example, if a person finds that drinking cow’s milk worsens their UC symptoms, they may wish to substitute it for plant-based milk fortified with calcium, iron, and B vitamins.

Some people find they cannot tolerate lactose, especially during a flare, which often occurs in dairy foods such as:

  • milk, skimmed and whole
  • soft cheese such as cream cheese
  • yogurt

People may wish to track any reactions to dairy and other food products by keeping a food journal.

The following types of milk may be suitable for those with UC. However, a person should monitor any symptoms when introducing a new type of milk.

It may be helpful to choose products fortified with extra vitamins and minerals. Some manufacturers add iron, calcium, and B vitamins to plant-based milk and will specify this on the packet.

Getting enough calcium

When avoiding dairy products, people must ensure they are still getting enough calcium. They can choose the types of milk that manufacturers have fortified with calcium.

They may also wish to try the followingTrusted Source food sources of calcium:

It is important to note that some of the above foods can trigger or worsen flare-ups for some people. People need to monitor for any reactions to these foods.

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation advises that no single diet works for everyone. Instead, they recommend that people with UC work with a doctor or dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan that ensures adequate nutrients.

When a person is in UC remission, they need to eat a balanced diet that includes all the food groups. Some researchTrusted Source suggests that consuming an anti-inflammatory diet may benefit people with UC.

An anti-inflammatory diet may include:

Foods to eat during a flare

People may help avoid worsening UC symptoms by eating soft, bland foods. These may include:

Additionally, someone may wish to consume probiotic supplements during a flare.

They may also consider taking supplements with their doctor’s approval. A person can speak with a dietitian to determine the best source of probiotics in their diet.

Food to avoid during a flare

The following foods and drinks may worsen symptoms during a flare of UC:

  • fried and spicy foods
  • alcohol
  • drinks containing sweeteners
  • whole grain products
  • most dairy products
  • raw, unpeeled fruits and vegetables

General tips

Generally, a person with UC can try:

  • staying adequately hydrated with water, broth, or a rehydration solution
  • eating meals on a regular schedule
  • having 4 to 6 smaller meals a day rather than 3 larger ones
  • keeping a food journal during a flare to help identify trigger foods
  • using low fat cooking techniques such as boiling, grilling, or steaming
  • drinking slowly and avoiding using a straw, which can cause gas

Dairy may be a common trigger for symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC), so avoiding it may help during a flare. Many milk alternatives are available, including oat, soy, and almond milk. Additionally, probiotic drinks such as kefir may help some people.

There is no single diet to help everyone with UC, so individuals need to work with a healthcare professional to explore what is right for them.

Any eating plan that restricts foods needs supervision from a dietitian. Eating a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet and avoiding excess sugar, processed foods, and alcohol benefits the digestive system and overall health.