Diverticulitis is an inflammation or infection of pouches, known as diverticula, in the intestinal tract. A person with known diverticula is considered to have diverticulosis. Diverticulitis typically occurs in the large intestine, but pouches may also form in the esophagus, stomach or small intestine. Symptoms of diverticulitis include severe abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and nausea. During the inflammation period, a person should seek medical attention. However, once symptoms subside, diet modifications may help prevent the recurrence of the disease.
High-fiber Foods
During a bout with diverticulitis, it is important to allow the bowels to rest. A low-fiber diet is recommended to delay the digestion process and allow for healing. Fiber is abundant in whole grains like oatmeal and whole wheat bread, fruit and vegetables. Choose foods that are naturally low in fiber such as white bread, white rice, or white pasta. Overcooked vegetables and peeled fruit are also low in fiber. Once symptoms of diverticulitis subside, a doctor or dietitian will recommend changing your diet to high fiber to reduce the risk of recurrence. Slowly increase fiber intake each day to avoid abdominal distress. The American Dietetic Association recommends 25g of fiber daily.
Nuts and Seeds
Little research exists on the link between nuts and seeds and diverticulitis. According to the Mayo Clinic, doctors used to believe foods with small seeds or nuts could become lodged in diverticula and result in inflammation or infection. However, no evidence exists to support this method of treatment. Trigger foods vary from person to person, making it important to be aware of what you eat and when diverticulitis occurs. If nuts or seeds coincide with symptoms, avoid related foods and contact your physician.
Trigger Foods
Various foods may affect a person differently. Fried, greasy food is high in fat and may exacerbate symptoms of diverticulitis. Spicy foods often irritate the stomach and may cause intestinal distress. Dairy products are trigger foods for many people. Try lactose-free products, soy milk or almond milk if dairy exacerbates symptoms. Keep a food journal that details what you eat and how it makes you feel to determine which foods cause diverticulitis to reoccur. Avoid trigger foods to limit disease recurrence.
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