Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of diverticula, pouches in the intestine. Symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, bloody stools, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating. Medication, surgery and dietary precautions are used to treat and prevent diverticulitis.
Prevention Diet
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) says low-fiber diets are a risk factor for diverticulitis. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 25 g of fiber a day for women and 38 g of fiber for men. Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps it move through the intestines. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables and whole grains like brown rice, barley, quinoa, whole grain bread and pasta, cornmeal and oats. Individuals who are unable to get enough fiber in their diet may benefit from taking a fiber supplement like psyllium, flax seed or oat bran. Side effects of fiber include bloating and gas, so the Mayo Clinic recommends adding fiber to the diet gradually and drinking plenty of water. Eating a diet low in fat and red meat may also help prevent diverticulitis.
Diet for Acute Diverticulitis
During and after an acute diverticulitis attack the intestines need time to rest and heal which may be accomplished by following a clear liquid diet. A clear liquid diet only allows transparent liquids like broth, clear soda, strained fruit juice, popsicles and gelatin without fruit or fruit pulp, water and plain tea or coffee.
After a few days a clear liquid diet usually progresses to a low-residue diet. The goal of a low-residue diet is to decrease the number and size of stools, relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea and prevent recurrent diverticulitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables, coarse or tough meats, peanut butter, nuts, seeds, coconut and marmalade are restricted on a low-residue diet.
The Mayo Clinic warns that clear liquid and low-residue diets are not appropriate for prolonged use because they do not provide enough calories or nutrients to support health. Individuals who are unable to resume a normal diet after a few days should consult a physician or registered dietitian.
Diet for Long Term Management
A regular, high-fiber diet is the goal of long term management for diverticulitis. According to the UMMC foods that have been particularly associated with a lower risk of diverticulitis include high-fiber foods like cucumber, lettuce, spinach and brown bread.
Alternative Treatments
Supplements and herbs may help prevent or treat diverticulitis, however the successes of many are based on anecdotal evidence without scientific proof. The UMMC and Mayo Clinic recommend talking with a physician prior to starting any alternative treatments for diverticulitis. Supplements that may benefit overall intestinal health include glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics. Herbs that may help treat intestinal diseases like diverticulitis include slippery elm, wild yam, cat's claw, marshmallow, licorice and chamomile.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity along with diet is part of a healthy lifestyle for individuals with and without diverticulitis. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day. Regular physical activity promotes normal bowel movements and decreases intestinal pressure which benefits diverticulitis and other intestinal conditions.
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