Can I eat eggs with ulcerative colitis?
Eggs are a soft, low-fiber, complete-protein food with no insoluble fiber or fibrous connective tissue to digest, which is why dietitians consistently list them among the easiest proteins to tolerate during active ulcerative colitis. Protein needs rise during a flare because inflammation and diarrhea increase losses, and eggs are an efficient way to meet that need without added bulk.
During a flare
Scrambled or soft-cooked eggs are commonly suggested as an easy, energy-dense flare food (e.g., scrambled eggs on toast). Frying in a lot of fat or pairing with greasy sides can undercut tolerance for some people.
In remission
Eggs are typically fine to eat regularly in remission as part of a balanced diet; there's no evidence they need to be restricted once symptoms settle.
Ways to make it gentler
- Scramble, poach, or soft-boil rather than fry
- Pair with easy-to-digest sides during a flare
Sources
- What Should I Eat with Crohn's or Colitis? IBD Diet Guide — Crohn's & Colitis Foundation
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrition Tips (Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis) — Gastrointestinal Society (badgut.org)
- Food and Crohn's or Colitis — Crohn's & Colitis UK
Last checked 2026-08-12
