Recommendations for Microcystic Colitis
From Medical News Today
Foods to eat
There are currently no dietary guidelines for people with MC. However, despite limited research into the topic, there is some interest in using probiotics.
Probiotics
Some researchers have suggested that probiotics may benefit people with MC because these bacteria and yeasts can help relieve symptoms of other gut conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis.
However, there is only limited evidence that probiotics or other foods that increase beneficial gut bacteria may help treat MC. More research into probiotics is necessary to confirm their effectiveness for people with this condition.
Water
Drinking plenty of water or other liquids during episodes of MC is essential. The body loses fluids during episodes of diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration. Drinking enough water is also essential for many bodily functions, including digestive processes.
Foods To Limit
Caffeine
Foods and drinks that contain caffeine can include:
energy drinks
coffee and tea
cola
chocolate
Lactose
Foods and drinks that contain lactose can include:
milk, buttermilk, and cream
yogurt
cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream
soft cheeses
ice-cream
Fiber
Doctors may recommend a low fiber diet to help manage diarrhea for people with MC. Fiber aids the passage of food through the digestive symptom. In some people, a low fiber diet may relieve diarrhea symptoms during an episode of MC.
Foods that are high in fiber include:
beans, pulses, and peas
nuts and seeds
potatoes
raw fruits
raw vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach
whole wheat or whole grain bread, cereals, pasta, and rice
Gluten
In people with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten intolerance, eating foods containing gluten causes digestive symptoms similar to those of MC, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. People with celiac disease are more likely to have MC than people without this condition.
A person with MC should see their doctor for a blood test to rule out celiac disease. There is no cure for celiac disease, but a gluten-free diet will help minimize or prevent symptoms.
Gluten is a general name for the naturally present proteins in cereal grains, such as wheat, rye, and barley. People with celiac disease should avoid foods that contain gluten.
FODMAPs
FODMAPs are certain carbohydrates (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols) that the body has difficulty digesting. They can also cause digestive symptoms. People on a low-FODMAP diet avoid foods containing these carbohydrates. Foods that contain these carbohydrates include:
fruits and vegetables
dairy products
wheat and rye products
sugars and artificial sweeteners
Although there is little research on MC specifically, a low FODMAP diet can help relieve symptoms in people with other digestive disorders, such as IBS.
Other causes
Researchers believe excessive alcohol consumption might increase the riskTrusted Source of developing MC. Some people with MC may find that avoiding or limiting alcohol consumption improves their symptoms.
Smoking can increase the risk of developing or worsening symptoms of many digestive disorders, including MC. Doctors usually advise people with MC who smoke to quit.
There is not yet any scientific proof that medications can cause MC. However, there are links between MC and certain medications, including some antidepressants, several cardiovascular drugs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Medical treatment
Medications are generally effective in treating MC. In addition to recommending dietary and lifestyle changes, a doctor or gastroenterologist may prescribe:
medications that reduce or prevent diarrhea
corticosteroids, such as budesonide
antibiotics
immunomodulators and anti-TNF therapies