Diverticula are small pouches in the intestine. Diverticulosis is a condition characterized by multiple diverticula and diverticulitis occurs when diverticula get inflamed and infected. Dietary precautions can minimize symptoms of diverticular disease and acute diverticulitis.
Causes and Symptoms
Risk factors for diverticular disease include a low-fiber or high-fat diet, age, obesity, gender and lack of regular physical activity according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Individuals with diverticula may be asymptomatic aside from minor irregularities in bowel movements; however symptoms of diverticulitis include sudden pain, abdominal tenderness, fever, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, bloody stools and bloating.
Prevention Diet
Diverticulitis occurs more often in populations with low-fiber diets. The Mayo Clinic recommends 25g of fiber a day for women and 38g a day for men. Fiber softens and adds bulk to stool which helps it move more quickly and smoothly through the intestines. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes are high in fiber. Individuals who are unable to consume enough dietary fiber may benefit from taking fiber supplements like psyllium, flaxseed or oat bran. Side effects of fiber include bloating and gas, but the Mayo Clinic says these can be minimized by adding fiber to the diet gradually and drinking plenty of water. The UMMC also recommends avoiding red meat, eating a low-fat diet and exercising regularly to prevent diverticulitis.
Diet for Acute Diverticulitis
A clear liquid diet can help during and after an acute diverticulitis episode by giving the intestines time to rest and heal. A clear liquid diet only allows transparent liquids like broth, clear soda, strained fruit juice, water and plain coffee or tea. Popsicles and gelatin without fruit or fruit pulp are also allowed.
Clear liquid diets can progress to a low-residue diet after a few days. Low-residue diets are used to decrease the number and size of stools, relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea and prevent recurrent diverticulitis. The Mayo Clinic says whole grains, whole fruits and vegetables, coarse or tough meats, peanut butter, nuts, seeds, coconut and marmalade are not allowed on a low-residue diet.
Clear liquid and low-residue diets should not be used for long periods of time because they do not provide enough calories or nutrients to support health. Individuals who are unable to tolerate a regular diet for a prolonged period should consult a physician.
Long-Term Management
A regular diet that is high in fiber is ideal for long-term management of diverticular disease. Cucumber, lettuce, spinach and brown bread in particular may lower the risk of diverticular disease, according to the UMMC.
Alternative Treatments
Supplements and herbs may benefit diverticular disease but should only be used under supervision by a physician because of possible side effects and medication interactions. According to the UMMC supplemental glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics may benefit overall intestinal health. Herbs that have been used to treat intestinal diseases include slippery elm, wild yam, cat's claw, marshmallow, licorice and chamomile.
Physical Activity
Physical activity promotes regular bowel movements and increases intestinal pressure. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day to benefit diverticular disease.
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