Can I eat brussels sprouts with ulcerative colitis?
During a flare: Usually avoidIn remission: Caution
Brussels sprouts belong to the same cruciferous family as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, which Cleveland Clinic names as common gas producers because of sulfur compounds and tough, insoluble-fiber-heavy leaves. Raw or firm-textured vegetables are also flagged to avoid during active symptoms on low-fiber diet guidance.
During a flare
Generally avoided during a flare, especially raw or shredded; if tolerated at all, use very small, soft-cooked amounts.
In remission
Reintroduce cooked Brussels sprouts slowly and in small portions, watching for gas and bloating.
Ways to make it gentler
- cook until very soft (roasting or steaming)
- quarter or shred before cooking to speed softening
Safer swaps
cooked green beans · cooked carrots
Sources
- Gas and Gas Pain: Causes, What It Feels Like, Location, Treatment — Cleveland Clinic
- Low-Fiber Diet: What It Is and Foods To Eat — Cleveland Clinic
Last checked 2026-08-12
