In conventional western medicines, no one knows what causes ulcerative colitis. The most likely theory is that it is caused by several factors ranging from genetics, faulty immune system reactions, and environmental influences, and over-consumption of saturated fat and/or processed foods. Most prominent risk factors for ulcerative colitis include:
- Family history of the disease
- Jewish heritage, especially Ashkenazi (European) Jews
- A diet high in sugar, cholesterol, and fat (particularly from meat and dairy products)
- Psoriasis. Studies show that psoriasis is associated both with Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis.