Ulcerative Colitis and Protein: How Much You Need, and 5 Top Sources

One of the ways the body heals the area is through dietary protein, according to Nayana George, MD, a gastroenterologist at Orlando Health Digestive Health Institute in Florida.

"Protein helps the body heal and stay strong, and people with UC often need more than someone without the condition," says Dr. George. "There are several factors related to UC that should lead to increased protein consumption."

Here's a look at what those factors are, along with top protein choices that she and other experts recommend for those navigating UC management.

When you have UC, flares can negatively affect both immunity and absorption in the gut, which sometimes lead to weight loss. This is why protein is a crucial part of managing the illness. Here's how protein and UC relate more specifically.

Immune System Regulation

Nutrient Absorption

Because dietary protein can protect and rebuild the cells in the colon's lining, that may help reduce inflammation and improve the way nutrients are absorbed, George says.

Weight Maintenance

When nutrients aren't absorbed properly, or you're experiencing notable discomfort due to UC symptoms like nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or fatigue, it can lead to unwanted weight loss, says George.

"Even when UC patients are stable, eating a healthy portion of protein daily helps keep muscles strong and the body healthy," says George. Adequate protein intake is also essential for getting the most out of treatment, she says, because medications like inflixamib (Remicade) bind to protein in the bloodstream to be transported to sites of inflammation.

But it's important to recognize that protein amounts may need to be tweaked based on your particular situation, says Adiana Castro, RDN, a registered dietitian-nutritionist specializing in gut health, and the owner of Compass Nutrition in New York City.

"If [you’re] in remission, aim for about 1 to 1.2 g per kg of body weight per day of protein to help retain muscle, which helps protect strength and fitness," she says.

"If [you’re] having a flare or taking steroids, then protein needs increase to 1.2 to 1.5 g [per kg] to promote healing and repair,” Castro says. “Lastly, if [you’re] going through surgery, the protein goal would be 1.6 to 1.8 g [per kg], to promote wound healing."

When choosing protein sources, it's important to lean toward options that are known to be gentle on the gastrointestinal system, says Richard Calderone, DO, a specialist in preventive medicine and internal medicine at Forrest Health in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

"The most UC-friendly protein sources are typically lean, soft, and well-cooked," he says. "These are lower in fiber and easy to digest, making them less irritating to the gut, especially during flares." Here's a handful of choices that check these boxes.

1. Greek Yogurt

Because of the way it's processed — with excess liquid whey drained out — authentic Greek yogurt has more protein than standard yogurts, and it's a gut-friendly choice because of natural probiotics, says George. Even if you have issues with lactose in dairy products, it's possible to find lactose-free Greek yogurt, she says.

2. Edamame

3. Eggs

For example, a hard-boiled egg can be used to top a salad, or eaten on its own as a snack between meals. Scrambled or poached eggs can be paired with cheese in an omelet, or with a lean meat like chicken breast in a hash, to get more protein.

4. Nut and Seed Butters

"When you get smooth nut and seed butters, they tend to be generally well tolerated compared to whole, raw nuts and seeds, which are often difficult for the digestive system to handle," says Calderone.

5. Salmon

Fish is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the immune system and gut health, George says. As a result, incorporating fish in your diet may help with UC management.

• Adequate protein is important when you have ulcerative colitis (UC), because this macronutrient can support the immune system, facilitate nutrient absorption, and maintain weight.
• The best protein sources for UC tend to be lean, soft, and well-cooked, so they're easy on the digestive system.
• Protein recommendations vary, depending on whether you're having active UC symptoms, have just had surgery, or are in remission.