A diet high in low-fiber foods that are rich in protein and fat may worsen the constipation that leads to diverticulosis. The pressure of trying to pass hard wastes may cause balloon-like pouches to form in your intestinal lining, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC. Trapped food particles in the diverticula can lead to diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection in one of these pouches. To correct constipation and prevent diverticulosis from advancing to diverticulitis, the NDDIC recommends that you reduce your intake of processed, low-fiber foods and increase your intake of whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables.
Meats
Although beef, pork and chicken provide protein, iron and other essential nutrients, eating too much meat, especially fatty cuts, may lead to constipation, according to the NDDIC. A diet that has higher proportions of meat than vegetables, fruits or whole-grain foods may result in hard stools that are difficult to pass. Limiting your meat portions to 3 oz. each -- about the size of a deck of cards -- may decrease your risk of constipation. The USDA recommends that men ages 31 through 50 have 6 oz. of a food from the meat and beans group daily, and women in this age group have 5 oz. each day. The Harvard School of Public Health, or HSPH, advises that you substitute dried beans for eggs, beef or other animal-based proteins several times a week to increase the fiber in your diet and promote soft, regular bowel movements.
Cheese and Eggs
Cheese and eggs are high-protein, low-fiber foods. Many cheeses, especially hard cheeses such as Swiss and cheddar, are high in fat. Eating large servings of eggs and cheese can promote constipation and add calories, fat and cholesterol to your diet. If you enjoy the flavor and texture of cheese, melt a small amount of grated low-fat cheddar or mozzarella cheese over broccoli, cauliflower, pinto beans, a baked potato or other high-fiber foods. Eating 20 to 35g of fiber daily may ease the transit of digestive materials and help keep your colon intact, the NDDIC says.
Refined Flour
Breads, cereals, desserts and other low-fiber baked goods made with refined flour encourage constipation and may contribute to diverticulosis. The NDDIC links the higher rate of diverticulosis in industrialized countries to the increased use of refined flour and other highly processed foods. The milling process removes the bran and germ -- the high-fiber components of wheat -- from the kernel. The indigestible fiber in wheat increases the bulk of your stools and helps them pass more easily, reducing the pressure on your colon, the NDDIC says. The fiber in wheat and oat bran may be more effective than the fiber in fruits and vegetables at relieving constipation.
