According to the National Institutes of Health, diverticulitis is the swelling of pouches in the intestinal wall. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, and constipation. Mild cases of diverticulitis can often be treated with a combination of diet and antibiotics to help reduce inflammation and infection and allow the colon to rest. Once resolved, a high fiber diet is generally recommended to help prevent recurrence of symptoms. It is important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Diverticulosis vs. Diverticulitis
Diverticulosis is defined by The National Institutes of Health as the presence of small, protruding sacs in the inner lining of the intestine. They state that diverticulosis is very common, occurring in more than half of Americans of the age of 60. While it is seen as a common condition, only a small amount of those with diverticulosis go on to develop diverticulitis. Diverticulitis occurs when the sacs in the intestine become inflamed and irritated. This can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea and constipation. While mild cases can typically be treated with a modified diet and bowel rest, more severe cases may require hospital stay and/or surgery.
Foods During a Diverticulitis Attack
During a mild diverticulitis attack, the doctor may recommend a clear liquid diet initially for two to three days to help the bowel rest. The Mayo Clinic states that foods permitted on a clear liquid diet include broth, clear sodas, pulp-free fruit juices such as apple and grape juice, ice chips, popsicles, gelatin, water, tea, and coffee without cream. The doctor may also limit or restrict intake of caffeine as well as sugar-free foods as these can all cause stomach upset.
Once Symptoms Improve
Once symptoms improve the doctor may approve low fiber, low residue foods. These foods provide more nutrition than a clear liquid diet, while continuing to allow the bowel to rest and heal. According to the University of California San Francisco, low-fiber foods allowed at this time include canned or cooked fruit and vegetables without seeds or skin, dairy products, eggs, low-fiber cereals, well cooked meats, plain pasta, white bread and white rice.
Once Symptoms Resolve
Once all symptoms have resolved, with your doctors permission, you may be able to return to a normal diet. Include high-fiber foods in the diet to help prevent diverticulitis symptoms from recurring in the future. Add fiber slowly back into the diet along with adequate amounts of fluids to avoid unwanted diarrhea and constipation. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends high-fiber foods such as beans, whole grain cereals and breads, and raw fruits and vegetables.
Member Comments