Can I eat honey with ulcerative colitis?
Honey is a concentrated source of fructose in excess of glucose, which some people absorb poorly; the unabsorbed sugar draws water into the bowel and feeds gas-producing bacteria, which is why honey is classified as high-FODMAP. At the same time, simple sugars like honey carry no fiber and are grouped among permitted low-residue foods.
During a flare
Honey in small amounts is often tolerated during flares since it's fiber-free, but larger amounts can cause the same bloating and loose stools seen with other high-fructose foods.
In remission
Most people tolerate honey in normal culinary amounts in remission; if fructose-related symptoms persist, keeping portions small or switching to a low-FODMAP sweetener can help.
Ways to make it gentler
- use in small amounts rather than large servings
- pair with a meal rather than eating alone
Safer swaps
maple syrup in moderation · table sugar
Sources
- Low-residue diet — The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
- High and low FODMAP foods — Monash FODMAP
Last checked 2026-08-12
