Learn how to enjoy holiday meals without triggering ulcerative colitis symptoms, with practical tips to keep your gut happy and stress-free.

While holiday dinners are a time to celebrate, they can also be challenging. You might have a mix of feelings when thinking about the holidays, and living with ulcerative colitis (UC) can make things even more complicated.

Food is not the cause of UC, but it can play a part in managing or causing a flare-up. In group settings that involve shared meals, it can be tough to figure out what to eat. Some holiday dishes may cause or worsen digestive troubles.

There’s no one way to eat that works for everyone, but some foods are more likely to cause digestive symptoms for someone with UC, and other foods can be easier to digest and tolerate.

Everyone has their own food traditions and favorite foods during the holiday season. Many dishes can be modified to be more UC-friendly, and knowing which foods to focus on can help reduce symptoms and stress.

During a flare, softer, low fiber foods are easier on your digestive system. Options that are usually well-tolerated include:

  • turkey, chicken, fish, and seafood
  • eggs
  • tofu or soy-based products
  • smooth nut butters (peanut, cashew, or almond)
  • soft, cooked vegetables with skins and seeds removed
  • soft fruits such as melon or bananas, with skins and seeds removed
  • mashed potatoes, rice, or other low fiber grains
  • white bread or rolls instead of whole wheat or whole grain
  • pureed or broth-based soups without beans or spices
  • gravies and sauces on the side, so you can choose the amount that works best for you
  • nonalcoholic drinks and decaffeinated teas

It’s important to eat slowly and chew your food well. Digestion starts in your mouth, so the better you chew your food, the easier it will be on the rest of your digestive system.

If you’re not able to eat enough, consider using nutritional supplement drinks. They can add more nutrients and calories to your diet.

Foods to avoid

There is no universal diet for UC. What you eat during a flare will be very different from what you eat during remission.

If you’re having a flare, consider being cautious with the following:

  • raw fruits and vegetables, especially those with tough skin or seeds
  • vegetables that are tough or stringy even when cooked, such as bamboo, celery, asparagus, and corn
  • dried fruit
  • high fiber grain products
  • beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds
  • processed meats with skin or casing, such as hot dogs or sausages
  • alcohol
  • caffeinated drinks

If you’re in remission, you may find that you can eat a variety of foods and don’t need to avoid anything.

Holiday meals can be challenging when you don’t have control over meal times or what’s served, but a little planning can help you enjoy them without triggering ulcerative colitis symptoms. Here’s what you can try:

  • Ask the host about the menu ahead of time to know which foods are safe for you.
  • Bring a dish or two to share to ensure there are options you can eat.
  • Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to avoid arriving hungry; pack a snack in case the meal is delayed.
  • Scope out new venues ahead of time and locate the bathrooms.
  • Manage stress by practicing deep breathing, grounding techniques, or finding a quiet space if overwhelmed.
  • Bring extra medications or supplies if traveling.
  • If you’re unsure, you can skip the event, attend only part of it, or decline certain foods.
  • Prioritize your health and energy; focus on attending the events that matter most.

Despite your best efforts, you may end up with symptoms. It’s not your fault. UC can be challenging and unpredictable.

Here are some steps you can take:

  • Have a trusted friend or family member who knows about your UC and is available to help you if needed.
  • Talk with your doctor ahead of time about medications you can take. Antidiarrheal or anti-inflammatory meds can be helpful to keep with you in case you need them.
  • Do your best to drink enough fluids. You’ll feel even worse if you’re dehydrated, which can happen if you’re having a lot of diarrhea.
  • Consider packing extra underwear or pants in case you need them.
  • Keep moist towelettes or wipes with you to use instead of toilet paper, which can be more irritating.

Holiday dinners and events can be tricky to navigate, especially if you have UC. While there’s no single diet for someone with UC, some foods tend to be well-tolerated, while other foods may worsen symptoms.

It may feel daunting to think about going to a holiday dinner when you’re trying to manage your symptoms, but with some planning ahead and communication, it’s still possible to enjoy the celebrations.

Pack some extra supplies and bring a dish to share, if you can. If you feel comfortable, you may want to talk with the host ahead of time about your needs. These steps can help reduce your stress and enjoy the holiday season.