Can I eat white fish with ulcerative colitis?
During a flare: Usually OKIn remission: Usually OK
Lean white fish like tilapia is explicitly listed as a protein to include when varying diet away from red meat, and its low fat, low fiber profile makes it one of the gentler protein options during active disease.
During a flare
Baked, poached, or steamed white fish is a well-tolerated flare protein for most people.
In remission
White fish fits easily into a regular, varied diet in remission.
Ways to make it gentler
- Bake, poach, or steam rather than deep-fry
- Avoid heavy breading 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)
Last checked 2026-08-12
