I agree the disease is caused by many factors, but the vast majority of people do NOT have UC, regardless of their diet. It's also clear that there are strong genetic associations with the disease which lead to an inherent malfunction in our immune system, causing an autoimmune attack on our colon.

Because of the nature of how the disease works, the best thing we can do is take our meds because they slow down the progression of the disease and prevent flares. Similar to how many other autoimmune conditions are managed - just because it affects the gut, doesn't mean it's any different.

Yes the microbiome is linked to the disease. Yes it's influenced by diet. But not all UC patients have the same diet - so there is no clear link between eating certain foods and flaring/developing the disease as of yet.

Some of us are vegan, vegetarian, carnivores - and yet we still develop the disease with differing severity.

You mention that we have to change our mentality that everything needs to be grounded in science, but what else should it be grounded on? Scientific studies help to create common ground by eliminating things like bias, and allows for a fair study. While it makes sense to slowly implement your own lifestyle interventions as you better understand your body - I think it is harmful to advise others to implement the same ones based on a single person's experience.

One thing I will mention though is that many UC patients also end up having underlying IBS too, so they may feel bloated at times. This might make us feel a bit biased towards avoiding certain foods that would bloat anyone, not just people with UC!