Can I eat dried fruit with ulcerative colitis?
During a flare: Usually avoidIn remission: Caution
Drying concentrates both the skin/fiber and the natural sugars (including sorbitol and fructose) of a fruit into a small volume, so a handful of dried fruit delivers far more insoluble fiber and fermentable sugar than the fresh equivalent.
During a flare
Consistently listed among foods to avoid during a flare because of its concentrated fiber and sugar content.
In remission
Some people tolerate small amounts in remission, and dried fruit is sometimes used deliberately for its natural laxative (sorbitol) effect if constipation is an issue; portion size matters.
Ways to make it gentler
- Rehydrate/stew to soften
- Start with very small portions
Safer swaps
applesauce · canned-peaches · banana
Sources
- Dietary Advice for Ulcerative Colitis — NHS (Milton Keynes University Hospital)
- FODMAP food list — Monash University FODMAP
- Food: Your Guide (booklet, ed. 9) — Crohn's & Colitis UK
Last checked 2026-08-12
