Dietary Strategies for Ulcerative Colitis: Best Foods to Pair with Indigo Naturalis (Qing Dai)

1. Recommended Foods for Ulcerative Colitis
✅ Anti-Inflammatory & Gut-Healing Foods
Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can help soothe the digestive tract and promote healing:

Omega-3 fatty acids – Found in salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s help reduce inflammation.
Turmeric (Curcumin) – Has strong anti-inflammatory properties and may complement Qing Dai’s effects.
Probiotic-rich foods – Yogurt, kefir, miso, and kimchi help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Soluble fiber sources – Oats, bananas, apples (peeled), and well-cooked carrots are easier to digest.
Bone broth & collagen-rich foods – Support gut lining repair and overall digestive health.
✅ Easily Digestible Proteins
Protein is essential for healing but should be easy on the gut:

Lean meats & fish – Chicken, turkey, and fatty fish like salmon.
Eggs – A well-tolerated source of protein and healthy fats.
Tofu & well-cooked legumes – If tolerated, these provide plant-based protein.
✅ Hydrating & Nourishing Beverages
Plenty of water – Dehydration can worsen UC symptoms.
Herbal teas – Chamomile, peppermint, and ginger tea can soothe the digestive tract.
Electrolyte-rich drinks – Coconut water or homemade broths can help replenish lost minerals.

2. Foods to Avoid
❌ Inflammatory & Irritating Foods
Certain foods can trigger flare-ups and should be avoided or limited:

Processed & fast foods – High in trans fats, refined sugars, and artificial additives that can worsen inflammation.
Dairy products – Many UC patients are lactose intolerant, making milk, cheese, and ice cream problematic.
High-fat & fried foods – Can be difficult to digest and trigger flare-ups.
Spicy foods – May irritate the gut lining and worsen symptoms.
Alcohol & caffeine – Can increase dehydration and gut irritation.
❌ High-Fiber & Gas-Producing Foods (During Flare-Ups)
Raw vegetables & whole grains – Can be hard to digest; opt for cooked versions.
Beans & cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage) – Can cause bloating and gas.

3. Example Meal for Ulcerative Colitis
🌅 Breakfast
✅ Scrambled eggs with cooked spinach & oatmeal
✅ Yogurt with banana and honey (if tolerated)

🍽 Lunch
✅ Grilled salmon with mashed sweet potatoes and steamed carrots
✅ Rice with miso soup and soft tofu

🌇 Dinner
✅ Bone broth-based chicken soup with well-cooked rice
✅ Baked cod with steamed zucchini and quinoa

🍏 Snacks
✅ Applesauce, rice cakes with almond butter, or a smoothie with banana and protein powder

A balanced, gut-friendly diet can help reduce inflammation, support digestion, and complement Qing Dai’s benefits. Prioritizing anti-inflammatory foods, avoiding triggers, staying hydrated, and eating easy-to-digest meals can improve UC management.