Diverticula are small bulging pouches that form on the lining of the colon, according to the American College of Gastroentrology. Diverticula are thought to be caused by intestinal spasms mainly from constipation. Constipation exerts pressure in the wall of the colon, which results in outward bulges in weak spots on the wall of the colon. The condition of having diverticula is known as diverticulosis. Certain foods should be avoided by patients with diverticulosis.
Low-Fiber Foods
Patients with diverticula should avoid eating low-fiber foods because they cause constipation. Constipation is a major cause of diverticula, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Patients with diverticula should increase the amounts of fiber in the diet in order to reduce symptoms of diverticulosis. Fiber keeps stool soft and lowers the pressure inside the colon so stool contents can move through easily. Examples of low-fiber diets that should be avoided by patients with diverticula include low-fiber cereals, white bread, white rice, cooked vegetables without seeds or skin and canned fruits without seeds or skin.
Seeds and Nuts
In the past, doctors recommended patients with diverticula avoid eating seeds and nuts. The doctors thought the seeds and nuts could become trapped in the diverticula, leading to inflammation. However, it has been found there is no scientific evidence that seeds and nuts can cause inflammation once they become trapped inside the diverticula, according to University of San Francisco California Medical Center: Some doctors still recommend patients with diverticula to avoid seeds, nuts, corn, popcorn hulls, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, caraway, sesame seeds, strawberries, tomatoes, cucumbers and corn.
Irritating Foods
Patients with inflamed diverticula should avoid irritating foods such as those hard to digest, according to the American College of Gastroenterology. Examples of rough foods to be avoided include corn, flaxseed, oatmeal, wheat, barley, millet, bran and edible skins of fruits and vegetables. These foods may cause further irritation to the diverticula.
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