More than 50 percent of Americans over the age of 60 have diverticulosis, or abnormal protruding pouches on the inner lining of the intestines. But only a small percentage of those with diverticulosis develop diverticulitis, or an inflammation of the pouches. Experts once believed that specific foods, especially nuts and seeds, caused diverticulitis, but there is no evidence to support that claim, according to the National Institutes of Health, which notes that diverticulitis is associated with age and a low-fiber diet. While specific foods don't cause diverticulitis, a controlled diet can help treat symptoms and possibly reduce the risk of additional attacks.
During an Attack
A diverticulitis diet isn't designed to cure the condition, but to alleviate symptoms, avoid aggravating the digestive tract during an attack and help prevent attacks. The MayoClinic.com recommends a two- to three-day clear liquid diet at the onset of a diverticulitis attack. Foods allowed include water, ice chips, clear broth, clear soda, juice and popsicles without pulp or fruit particles, plain gelatin and coffee and tea without milk or cream.
Immediately After an Attack
As the attack subsides, slowly reintroduce low-fiber solid food into your diet. Tolerable foods include seedless skinless cooked vegetables, plain white rice and noodles, canned fruits, seedless sweets without nuts, eggs, white bread, clear juice, dairy, peanut butter without chunks, meat, poultry and fish.
Between Attacks
Because diverticulitis attacks often occur when there is increased pressure in the colon, MayoClinic.com recommends eating high-fiber foods, drinking lots of water and getting plenty of exercise between attacks to aid in healthy bowel movement. High-fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads and cereals, brown and wild rice and legumes. Women should consume 25g of fiber per day, and men should consume 38g per day.
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