According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders, about half of all people over age 60 have diverticulosis, a disease of the digestive tract characterized by the formation of small, bulging pouches, or diverticuli, in the colon. Constipation can make the condition worse. A high-fiber diet is recommended to help treat diverticulosis and prevent infection and inflammation of the pouches. It's important to consult with a physician before making changes to the diet.
Fruits
The University of California at San Fransisco recommends that people with diverticulosis consume 25 to 35 g of fiber a day to reduce risk of constipation. Fruits are a major source of fiber in the diet. High-fiber choices include raspberries, strawberries, pears apples, bananas and oranges. Fruits can be eaten as a snack or enjoyed as a sweet dessert at the end of the meal to increase fiber intake.
Vegetables
Vegetables are also a source of fiber in the diet. High-fiber vegetable choices include artichokes, peas, broccoli, turnip greens, brussel sprouts, corn, potatoes with the skin and carrots. One artichoke contains 10 g of fiber, according to MayoClinic.com, meeting nearly 1/3 of most people's daily fiber needs.
Grains
Many grain foods are a source of insoluble fiber, which helps to soften and bulk stool, according to the Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterolgy website GICare. High-fiber grains include barley, bran flakes, oatmeal, popcorn, brown rice, whole wheat bread and whole wheat spaghetti. Whole wheat products and popcorn in particular provide significant amounts of insoluble fiber.
Legumes, Nuts and Seeds
In the past, doctors recommended that people with diverticulosis avoid nuts, seeds and corn, believing that the particles in these foods got caught in the diverticuli, leading to infection and inflammation. According to the Mayo Clinic, no evidence exists to back up this claim, and people with diverticulosis no longer have to avoid these foods. High-fiber legumes, nuts and seeds include split peas, lentils, black-eyed peas, lima beans, baked beans, sunflower seeds, almonds, pistachios and pecans. Legumes, nuts and seeds can be added to salads and can be mixed into rice and pasta dishes to boost the fiber content.
Cautions
Adequate fluid intake is necessary when increasing fiber intake, to help improve bowel movements. It's important to increase fiber in the diet slowly, to limit abdominal discomfort and gas. Digestive aids such as Beano can help alleviate symptoms.
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