Can I eat salmon with ulcerative colitis?
Salmon and other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which UK and US patient organizations both list as foods to increase because omega-3s are linked to lower inflammation and reduced flare risk, and oily fish is recommended around twice a week. The tradeoff is that its fat content is higher than lean white fish, and excess fat can be harder to absorb when the gut is actively inflamed.
During a flare
Some people tolerate salmon well during a flare since it's still an easy-to-digest protein, but its higher fat load means portion size and preparation (baked or poached, not fried) matter more than with leaner fish.
In remission
Regular oily fish (about twice weekly) is a commonly recommended source of anti-inflammatory omega-3s once in remission.
Ways to make it gentler
- Bake, poach, or grill instead of frying
- Start with smaller portions during a flare
Safer swaps
white fish · tuna
Sources
- What Should I Eat with Crohn's or Colitis? IBD Diet Guide — Crohn's & Colitis Foundation
- Food and Crohn's or Colitis — Crohn's & Colitis UK
Last checked 2026-08-12
