Healthy Eating Eating healthy is important when dealing with ulcerative colitis. While diet does not cause ulcerative colitis, you can improve your nutrition and diet by learning which foods cause you problems and avoiding them. Since there isn't one standard diet for all people with ulcerative colitis, consult your doctor before beginning a diet program or if you experience discomfort. Healthy eating may be difficult when you are busy with many daily responsibilities and during hectic times such as holidays. Below are some ideas to help you eat well and stay well-nourished. Design a game plan! We often make poor food choices because we haven't planned ahead. Balanced meals are the first thing we let go. A little planning can help you eat healthier and resist temptations.    Make a list! As a first step, use the U.S.D.A. Food Pyramid to prepare a weekly menu with well-balanced meals. Then make a grocery list of the healthy foods you need. If you don't feel well enough to go to the store, ask a friend or significant other to get these items for you.   Prepare healthy meals ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Low-fat casseroles, frozen dinners, and soups can make dinner a snap. Try to stay away from innocent-looking nibbles such as trail mixes or popcorn that may cause discomfort.    Spare yourself from extra fat! Many snack foods such as chips and dips are high in fat. Remember that low-fat or fat-free snacks provide healthier alternatives. When you feel hungry, eat low-fat, high-carbohydrate foods such as pasta or rice to help curb your appetite. Or try a low-fat dish or a salad.    Refuel your system regularly. Skipping meals can leave you feeling weak and fatigued. So refuel your body with three well-balanced meals a day.    Get those muscles working! A light, regular exercise routine such as walking will help keep calories under control and replenish your energy. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program.    Watch your alcohol intake. Although it may not cause the colon to be inflamed, alcohol stimulates the bowel and can cause diarrhea for anyone. Avoid alcohol when your disease is active because alcohol can worsen the discomfort. Also, if you are sensitive to alcohol and if it consistently causes you discomfort, staying away from alcoholic beverages is a smart idea. Consult your doctor if you have any questions.    Don't give in to temptations. It's normal to crave foods that may cause you discomfort. Below are some ideas to help you fight the temptations.       One bite won't hurt.       Last time I ate this food, I did not feel good afterward. I don't want to feel this way again, so maybe I should not eat it.       I feel fine. I should be able to eat whatever I want.       I should not give up my healthy eating habits. I'd be hurting myself because I can't tolerate these foods. Plus, there are many other foods I can eat and enjoy.    Reward yourself. As you take steps toward eating well, pat yourself on the back. At the checkout counter in your grocery store, look at the items you've selected. If you've done your healthy shopping, it's reward time! Treat yourself to your favorite magazine or buy flowers to brighten your home.    Enjoy life by eating well and being healthy! By Lauren Niemes, RD, Executive Director, Cincinnati Nutrition Council. Adapted from:        Living Better.com