In diverticular disease or diverticulosis, the colon develops outpouchings or pockets in its wall, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These pockets are called diverticula; one component of a healthy diet for this condition is high-fiber foods. If some of the diverticula get infected or inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is a painful disorder and may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics; during a diverticulitis attack, you also must give your colon a temporary rest until the infection is treated. Certain foods should be avoided if you have diverticulitis.
Whole Grain Breads and Cereals
Whole grain breads and cereals are a part of the normal diet if you have diverticulosis; if you develop diverticulitis, however, you need to avoid whole grain breads and cereals, advises the Atlanta Gastroenterology Specialists website. The fiber in these foods causes waste to travel more quickly through the intestine, which deprives the colon of the needed rest. White breads, pastas and low fiber cereals such as Rice Krispies or Corn Flakes are allowed as part of a diverticulitis diet, notes the Cambridge University Hospitals.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh, raw fruits and vegetables should be avoided when you have diverticulitis because of their fiber content. Examples of these high-fiber foods include apples, pears, broccoli, corn and squash. According to the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, cooked fruits without skin or seeds, such as applesauce, are low in fiber and allow more bowel rest; canned fruits can be eaten as well. Cooked or canned vegetables without seeds or skin can also be eaten during a flare-up of diverticulitis.
Dried Beans and Legumes
While dried beans and legumes such as lentils, kidney beans and navy beans should be regularly included in your diet, you should completely avoid them when you have diverticulitis, warns MayoClinic.com. Soups like lentil or pea soups should not be eaten either, according to Cambridge University Hospitals.
Any Foods that Trigger an Attack
You may find that certain foods bring on a diverticulitis attack. Although not high in fiber, some foods may still lead to symptoms. Physicians used to suggest that people with diverticulosis not eat foods with seeds, nuts and popcorn because these foods could incite diverticulitis, according to the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center. No scientific evidence supports these beliefs; however, if you feel that these foods or any other foods cause diverticulitis, you should avoid them as well.
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