This condition is characterised by ulcerations of the colon, also known as the bowel or large intestine.
The mucous lining undergoes steady erosion with abscess formation.

It is not exactly known what triggers off ulcerative colitis but aside from predisposition due to genetics.

Some causes are:

• Food intolerance
• Food allergy
• Long term use of some medicines
• A Bacteria or Viral infection
• Excessive stress can also cause flare ups of colitis

Some symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis include:

• Increased bowel movement frequency
• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Decreased Appetite
• Weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Anaemia
• Bloating in the gut
• Rashes
• Joint aches

Many of these signs may come and go any time.

Conventional treatment is via anti-diarrheal drugs, immunosuppressants, antibiotics and corticosteroids taken orally or as an enema.
In sever progression of the condition, emergency surgical removal of the colon is sometimes necessary.

Many sufferers have found long term relief following Drug Free methods by changing their food intake in combination with various food supplements..

Sugar, high animal fats, smoking, wheat & dairy products have been found to aggravate the problem.

A change in diet which eliminates dairy and wheat products is the first stage.
As most ready meals & fast foods contain added colours, additives, flavour enhancers, preservatives and many other chemicals, they too need to be eliminated as these chemicals can react with the gut lining to cause inflammation.

* Also read the Irritable Bowel Syndrome page for information.

SUMMARY: Eliminate sugar, animal fats & processed foods from the diet. Stop smoking Improve the digestive process. Maintain correct bowel flora (favourable bacteria in the colon) BENEFICIAL SUPPLEMENTS Digestive Enzymes EPA & DHA (Omega 3 fish oils) Probiotics e.g.. Acidophilus & Bifo Antifungals Garlic Vitamin C Calendula Flaxseed Aloe Vera Magnesium Zinc