Which dietary pattern did the patient with ulcerative colitis initially follow in the scenario?

• A. High-fiber diet
• B. Low-fiber, low-lactose diet
• C. High-protein diet
• D. No dietary changes

Answer: (B)

In ulcerative colitis, adjusting the diet during a flare aims to reduce irritation in the colon and lessen diarrhea and cramping. A low-fiber pattern minimizes stool bulk and mechanical irritation, while avoiding lactose-containing foods helps prevent gas and osmotic effects that can worsen diarrhea in inflamed guts. Together, these changes often ease symptoms early in the course of a flare. A high-fiber diet would typically worsen symptoms when the colon is inflamed, and a high-protein plan isn’t specifically indicated for symptom relief. Not changing the diet wouldn’t address the active symptoms.