No U.C. is not contagious, it is essentially an inflammation of the colon.

Other then a high fiber deit I was told there is no definative do's and don't's. Everyone is different its more of a trial and error and pretty simple if you eat something and feel fine then contiune if you eat something and get sick (in whatever way) don't eat it. I know it sounds simplistic but that's basicly what my doctor told me.

When I first got this I asked that very question what can I eat and he said basicly anything. BUT things like lettuce and corn don't digest and AGAIN while I have no proof or was told about them I'd say since your colon is acting up[ anyway it might be good to limit them. I eat them from time to time and have had no problems but safe i always best I guess.

but to sum it up it jsut what you FEEL that will tell you what you can and can't eat.

Simple answer ask your doctor. I know several people with UC like myself and haven't heard of this issue BUT doesn't mean it doesn't exist.

I had the same question as I was a vegetarian before being diagnosed. I have found that I can tolerate bananas, grapes, watermelon, potatoes (not fried), green beans, and mushrooms, carrots, and green pepper if they are cooked in something. Also V8 juice and fruit juices like grape - not the citrus kind like orange or grapefruit. I avoid raisins, corn, and any kind of citrus. If you haven't already, keep a food and "bathroom habits" diary for about a month to determine what you can tolerate - it helped me alot. Good luck!

Some doctors say they don't know why it occurs, but I do have a theory.

My theory is:
1. Processed foods and chemicals in foods
2. Nobody likes to cook anymore
3. Nobody eats the right foods like fruits & veggies
4. Fast paced society
5. Back then when we grew our stuff on our own farms, there was no such thing. If there was, it was only a handful. Now you have millions, especially in the United States.

Yes, if you have UC you will want to see a gastroenterologist (which is a doctor who specializes in the GI track). They will have the most knowlege and experience working with people with ulcerative colitis. Good luck in your search!

Just be honest. Very clear and short answers. Don't get into details unless they ask.

I would have to say it doesn't seem to make a difference to me especially with wine however beer and ale may be worst

you can down load it from online or call the number for proctor and gamble( the people who make the meds.) to help you out. they do mail stuff out too

Absolutely! My co-workers understand when I have "issues" and my time away from my desk is not any different than someone who has to express thier milk, smoke, eat frequently. etc.