Diverticulosis is a condition of the large intestines that is identified by multiple small pouches lining the colon. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), about half of all people older than 60 have diverticulosis, or inflammation of those small pouches. The NIDDK says diverticulitis can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, perforation, infections and blockages. The Mayo Clinic reports that a diverticulitis diet cannot treat or prevent diverticulitis but can help alleviate symptoms.
Clear Liquids
During an acute attack of diverticulitis, the doctor may recommend bowel rest. Bowel rest includes a clear liquid diet for two to three days. Foods allowed on a clear liquid diet include broth, clear soda, juice without pulp, ice chips, ice pops without pulp, plain gelatin, plain water, tea or coffee without cream. At some point early in the healing process, patients may be instructed to add milk, ice cream, custard, strained cereals, strained soups, milkshakes and pudding.
Low-Fiber Foods
Once signs and symptoms start to resolve, the doctors typically recommend a low-fiber diet. Low-fiber foods include canned fruits, melons, grapes, ripe bananas, applesauce, stone fruits (nectarines, cherries, and plums), desserts without seeds or nuts, eggs, enriched white bread, biscuits, water crackers, fruit juice with little or no pulp, low fiber cereals (corn flakes, puffed rice, special K), milk, yogurt or cheese without nuts or seeds, smooth peanut butter, tender meat, poultry and fish, white rice, plain pasta, noodles, potatoes without skin, vegetable juice, lettuce, mushrooms, and soft cooked vegetables without seeds or skin.
High-Fiber Foods
The NIDDK says once symptoms clear, individuals with diverticulitis need to start gradually increase their fiber intake, with a goal of 25 grams per day. High-fiber food recommendations include brown rice, whole grain bread, fruits, vegetables, legumes such as lentils and peas, and whole grain cereals such as bran flakes and fiber one.
