13. Tomatoes: Nightshade Nuisance
Tomatoes are part of the nightshade family, which also includes eggplants, potatoes, and peppers. Some individuals with ulcerative colitis may find that nightshade vegetables can trigger their symptoms due to their alkaloid content. Alkaloids are naturally occurring compounds that can irritate the gut lining and contribute to inflammation.
If you suspect that tomatoes or other nightshade vegetables are causing issues, try eliminating them from your diet and monitoring your symptoms. If you notice an improvement, you may consider avoiding or reducing your intake of these foods. Keep in mind that everyone’s tolerance to nightshade vegetables varies, so it’s essential to pay attention to your body’s unique reactions. (13)