Diverticulitis occurs when pouches in the intestine (diverticula) get inflamed and infected. Symptoms include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding or bloody stools, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating. Diet, medications and in some instances surgery are used to treat and prevent diverticulitis.
Diet for Prevention
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) diverticulitis and diverticular diseases occur more commonly in areas where people eat low-fiber diets. The UMMC encourages consuming 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day through food to prevent diverticulitis. Fiber is in fruits, vegetables and whole grains like brown rice, barley, whole grain breads and pastas, corn, quinoa and oats. Eating a low fat diet and avoiding red meat may also help prevent diverticulitis. The Mayo Clinic recommends adding fiber to the diet gradually to avoid side effects like bloating and gas.
Diet for Acute Diverticulitis
The diet during and immediately following an acute diverticulitis attack allows the intestines time to rest and heal. A clear liquid diet may be prescribed for the first few days. Foods allowed on a clear liquid diet include broth, clear soda, strained fruit juice, ice chips, popsicles and gelatin without fruit or fruit pulp, water and tea and coffee without cream.
A low-residue diet (a.k.a. low-fiber diet) follows a clear liquid diet. A low-residue diet limits fiber and other indigestible materials. The goals of a low-reside diet are to decrease the size and number of stools a day, relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea and reduce subsequent attacks. Foods avoided on a low-residue diet include whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables, coarse or tough cuts of meat, peanut butter, nuts and seeds, coconut and marmalade. A clear liquid diet and low-residue diet should not be used over long periods of time because they do not provide enough nutrients and calories to support health.
Diet for Long-term Management
The goal after an acute attack is to progress back to a regular, high-fiber diet. According to the Mayo Clinic fiber helps move waste quickly through the intestines and decreases intestinal pressure. The UMMC says individuals who are unable to meet their fiber needs through diet alone may consider taking a fiber supplement like psyllium, flaxseed or oat bran. Drinking plenty of fluids is also important to avoid constipation.
Supplements and Herbs
Supplements like glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics may benefit overall intestinal health and help treat inflammation. Herbs that have been used to treat diverticulitis, according to the UMMC, include slippery elm, cat's claw, wild yam, marshmallow, chamomile and licorice. The success of many supplements and herbs is based on anecdotal evidence and lack scientific research. Talk with a doctor prior to taking supplements and herbs especially if prescription medication is already being used to treat diverticulitis.
Physical Activity
All individuals need to balance diet with physical activity. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day to help manage diverticulitis. Exercise promotes normal bowel function and decreases intestinal pressure.
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