A Romantic Dinner is Possible When You Have Ulcerative Colitis

Ah, romance is a wonderful thing. The birds chirp, the flowers bloom and the sun and moon both shine in all of their glory. Of course the ulcerative colitis sufferer sees and hears none of this because they are in the bathroom; o.k. maybe I'm not funny but you can't blame a guy for trying.

Nothing is more difficult than having ulcerative colitis and being involved with a romantic dinner. It doesn't matter whether you are a man or woman, it brings unique problems. The first decision you have to make is whether or not your dinner is going to be prepared at home or if you are going to a restaurant.

If one opts to make a meal at home, you probably have more control. You can have and prepare a menu that is ulcerative colitis friendly.

Should you tell your date about your condition? That totally depends on you and where you are in the relationship.

When I had someone over to my home to eat, I based the menu on what they could eat and then tried to prepare it in a manner that was tasty for anyone but could be prepared ulcerative colitis friendly. For example I might use a grill for meat and certain vegetables. For a dessert I would offer standard dessert and I would either pass or eat a very little bit. There were things that I did not dare do such as drink.

What if you have a flare at home? If it is mild it really doesn't present a problem, however if it severe, then the date has to be advised.

What should you do when you go out for a romantic dinner? It does take a great deal of preparation.

First, you have to make sure that there is a hospital close by. You know that in any sharp restaurant there will be an adequate restroom. I believe it is mandatory to be familiar with the restaurant's menu where you will be eating and, in fact, I think it makes sense to know what you are going to order.

When you go out for a romantic evening, you should coat your stomach with something like Mylanta and if you have a relaxant like Valium, take it. At the restaurant drink your water.

It is smart to ask for a table or booth near the restroom so that if you do have to make use of the restroom the disruption will be minimal.

I remember doing an article about things you can say if you go to the restroom an inordinate number of times, but, I think at some point you should "come clean" or beg off as ill and go home.

As I always mention in an article having to do with food, make sure the restaurant doesn't serve Monosodium Glutamate in its food.

So you have done your preparation for your romantic meal. Now just go and enjoy yourself; keep the stress level down.

I don't want to address this issue but I have to. Romantic dates and dinners are designed to create excitement, intimacy and passion. There is good stress and there is bad stress. Excitement at dinner is good stress; it still can cause a flare. Sometimes romantic evenings end in the bedroom. That creates stress as well. That presents a special and different problem and should be planned for as well.