Diverticulosis is a disorder of the digestive tract in which small pouches develop in the large intestine, or colon. These pouches, called diverticula, bulge outward through places where the wall of the colon is weak. Diverticulosis develops in about 10 percent of Americans older than 40, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Eating a healthy diet high in fiber may help prevent the disorder and may help reduce symptoms in patients with diverticulosis. Consult your doctor or a dietitian to develop an appropriate diet for your condition.
Symptoms and Causes
Diverticulosis may cause general abdominal discomfort, cramping, bloating or constipation. The symptoms may appear sporadically or may become chronic in some patients. If diverticula become irritated and inflamed when stool or bacteria accumulate in the pouches, a more serious condition called diverticulitis may develop. The most likely cause of diverticulosis is eating a diet low in fiber and containing lots of processed foods. Lack of exercise may also have a role in causing the condition.
Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is found in foods derived from plants. Fiber may be soluble or insoluble; each type has benefits for the digestive system. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to food, helping to move it through the intestines more quickly and increasing the volume of stool. Soluble fiber forms a gel that slows the digestive process. It has the added benefit of lowering blood cholesterol and preventing rapid rises in blood glucose. Both types of fiber help prevent constipation and may prevent symptoms of diverticulosis. MedlinePlus recommends that adults consume at least 20 to 35 g of fiber daily.
Dietary Sources
Eating a high-fiber diet is the best strategy to reduce symptoms of diverticulosis. Most fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of dietary fiber. Good choices include broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, string beans, apples, pears and peaches. In addition, certain foods are especially rich in soluble fiber, including bananas, berries, citrus fruits, potatoes and legumes such as peas, beans and lentils. Whole grain foods also provide lots of fiber. Choose whole-wheat and bran cereals, oatmeal, whole-wheat breads and baked goods, brown rice and whole-wheat pasta instead of white rice, white pasta or products made with white flour.
Fiber Supplements
Although eating more high-fiber foods is the best strategy, you may also increase your fiber intake by consuming fiber supplements. These are available at most pharmacies and health food stores. Some products contain soluble fiber that is consumed after mixing with water or other liquid. Other supplements contain mostly insoluble fiber and are available as tablets. Always drink lots of water when taking supplements and consult your doctor for advice.
Precautions
Although eating a high-fiber diet or taking fiber supplements are safe approaches, they may cause minor side effects such as gas or bloating. Add high-fiber foods or fiber supplements to your diet gradually, to lessen the likelihood of experiencing these problems. Consult your doctor if any side effects don't eventually disappear.
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