Ulcerative Colitis Vitamins & Supplements

Ulcerative colitis makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrition. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is always the best source of nutrients. But vitamins and supplements can also help you get the nutrition you need.

Vitamin D is crucial for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Patients with ulcerative colitis often have low levels of this vitamin. Consider getting your vitamin D levels checked and ask your doctor if you need supplements.

If you don't have enough calcium, your body removes it from your bones, causing them to become brittle. Many patients with ulcerative colitis are low on calcium because they avoid dairy. That means you may need to take calcium supplements to maintain your bone strength.

When you have ulcerative colitis, you might lose iron through bleeding from the sores in your colon. If you don't have enough iron, you can get a condition called anemia, which can make you tired, dizzy, or have an irregular heartbeat. Your doctor can test your blood to check your iron levels and give you supplements if necessary.

Folate (folic acid) is important for cell health and reducing birth defect risks during pregnancy. If you have ulcerative colitis, you may struggle to get enough folate from your diet. Certain medications can also lower folate levels, so you may need supplements.

Before you start taking any new vitamins or supplements, make sure to talk to your health care provider. They can make a nutrition plan that meets your needs and monitor your health with regular checkups and blood tests.