How to Get Through the Holidays During a Colitis Flare Up

December 2, 2025

The holidays may sparkle with comfort and joy, but if you’re managing ulcerative colitis, the season can feel like a minefield of rich foods, travel stress, and unpredictable symptoms. While others indulge and celebrate, you might be wondering how to keep your gut calm without feeling left out. The good news is that you can enjoy the festivities with confidence when you understand how to support your digestive system through the holiday rush.

This guide offers simple ways to prevent flare-ups, choose foods that keep you comfortable, and manage the stress that often comes with the season. You’ll discover flare-friendly meal ideas, tips for handling social pressure, and strategies for keeping symptoms from worsening so you can stay focused on what matters most: connection, celebration, and quality time with the people you love.

At a Glance

• Stick to gut-friendly foods like lean proteins, cooked veggies, and oatmeal
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and fatty or spicy foods that may irritate your colon
• Plan ahead for meals and travel to reduce flare-up triggers
• Manage stress with rest, gentle movement, and self-care
• Seek professional help if symptoms worsen or become severe

Eat Smart: The Best Foods During a Colitis Flare-Up

Food plays a major role in how your body responds during a flare. While everyone’s triggers differ, sticking to simple, low-fiber, and easy-to-digest meals can help you feel better faster.

Best foods to eat during a colitis flare-up include:

• Cooked vegetables like carrots, squash, or green beans
• Lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish
• White rice, oatmeal, or refined pasta for easy digestion
• Bananas, applesauce, or canned fruits without skin
• Smooth nut butters for gentle protein and fat

Avoid foods that may worsen inflammation, such as fried dishes, alcohol, caffeine, raq veggies, nuts, seeds, and spicy or dairy-heavy meals. 

Try This: Bring a small dish of your own to family gatherings, like mashed sweet potatoes or mild soup, so you'll have something safe to enjoy without stress.

Reduce Holiday Stress to Prevent Flare-Ups

Stress doesn’t cause colitis, but it can certainly make symptoms worse. The hustle of travel, shopping, and family dynamics often leaves little room for rest. Prioritize calm moments and listen to your body.

Try these tips to manage stress and protect your gut:

• Schedule downtime between events to avoid burnout.
• Practice deep breathing or meditation before meals.
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule.
• Stay hydrated—water and herbal teas are your best friends.

Even small moments of mindfulness can help regulate your body's stress response, making flare-ups less likely to spiral.

Plan Ahead to Stay Comfortable 

Planning ahead can make a huge difference in how you feel during the holidays.

Before heading to a party or trip:

• Eat a safe meal or snack beforehand so you’re not tempted by trigger foods.
• Pack digestive aids, prescribed medications, and hydration options.
• Map out restroom stops if you’re traveling long distances.Let close family members or hosts know about your condition if you’re comfortable sharing. It can relieve pressure and help them accommodate your needs.
  

Remember, it's okay to say no to certain foods or events. Protecting your healht should always come first.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your flare-up lasts longer than usual or your symptoms intensify, don’t wait it out. Persistent bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or dehydration can signal that your ulcerative colitis needs medical attention.

At the Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute, our specialists help patients manage chronic digestive conditions like ulcerative colitis year-round. With personalized care and advanced treatment options, we’ll help you find relief and regain control of your health, so you can spend less time in pain and more time enjoying life. 

FAQs About Ulcerative Colitis

What causes a colitis flare-up?
Triggers can vary but often include stress, certain foods, infections, or skipping medication. Keeping a symptom diary can help you identify your personal triggers.

How can I stop a colitis flare-up fast?
Rest your digestive system with bland, low-fiber foods, stay hydrated, take prescribed medications as directed, and avoid known triggers.

Can I drink alcohol during a flare-up?
It’s best to avoid alcohol; it can irritate the digestive tract and worsen symptoms. Opt for sparkling water or herbal tea instead.

Stay Well This Holiday Season

Managing a colitis flare-up during the holidays isn’t easy, but it is possible. Focus on gentle foods, limit stress, and plan ahead to prevent unnecessary discomfort. With a little preparation and self-care, you can still enjoy your favorite traditions and spend meaningful time with loved ones.

Get Expert Help Managing Your Colitis in Birmingham, AL

You don’t have to face flare-ups alone. The team at Alabama Colon & Rectal Institute in Birmingham provides compassionate, expert care to help you manage your colitis and feel better through the holidays and beyond.

If you’re struggling with ongoing symptoms or want to learn how to stop ulcerative colitis flare-ups before they start, schedule an appointment today. Together, we’ll help you find relief and get back to enjoying your life.