In diverticular disease, small outpouchings called diverticula develop along the colon wall. When the diverticula become infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Diverticulitis can be very painful and may lead to significant complications such as rectal bleeding, bowel obstruction or infection of the abdominal wall, according to MayoClinic.com. Changing dietary habits may help avoid the development of diverticulitis.
High Fiber Foods
Patients with diverticular disease should eat plenty of foods with high fiber content to prevent attacks of diverticulitis. Fruits and vegetables such as apples, lettuce and spinach and whole grain foods help waste products pass through the colon faster and relieve the pressure inside the intestines, according to the Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology website.
Drink Water
Patients with diverticular disease should also drink plenty of fluids. Fiber absorbs water so if an individual increases the amount of fiber in the diet without increasing the amount of fluids, the person may develop constipation, according to MayoClinic.com. Drinking sufficient amounts of fluids will help keep the wastes flowing through the colon and lessen the risk of an episode of diverticulitis.
Avoid Indigestible Seeds
Some doctors suggest that people with diverticular disease should avoid eating nuts, popcorn and different types of seeds because the small particles or seeds may fit into the pockets in the colon and cause irritation, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. This irritation may lead to an episode of diverticulitis. Scientific evidence for this is not fully understood; however, many physicians consider seeds problematic for patients with diverticula. The seeds in foods like tomatoes, cucumbers and strawberries are not considered a problem.
Foods Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids may combat inflammation in patients with diverticulitis. Eating fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and halibut or taking a fish oil supplement may help these patients avoid painful attacks.
