Diverticulosis is a condition that occurs when bulging sacs, called diverticula, develop in the wall of the intestinal tract. Diverticulitis occurs when the diverticula become inflamed or infected. Muscular spasms of the intestine may cause the diverticula to occur. Most often, diverticulosis does not cause any symptoms or may cause symptoms such as changes in bowel movements, rectal bleeding or painful cramps in the intestines. Making changes to the diet may help prevent complications associated with diverticulosis.
High-fiber Diet
Increasing the amount of fiber in the diet may decrease the muscle spasms in the intestines. High-fiber foods may help reduce the risk of developing complications, such as diverticulitis. Men under the age of 50 should eat at least 38g of fiber each day, and women should eat at least 25g of fiber daily. Over the age of 50, recommended fiber intake decreases to 30g for men and 21g for women, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Foods high in fiber include fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Examples of high-fiber foods include beans, whole-grain cereals, spinach, apples, prunes and sweet potatoes. Increase fiber slowly to avoid intestinal cramping and bloating.
Dietary Supplement
For people who cannot increase dietary fiber, using a supplement that contains psyllium or methylcellulose may help increase bulk in the intestines. The increased bulk may help reduce intestinal spasms and pressure on the walls associated with causing diverticulosis, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Fiber supplements are available over-the-counter and come in several forms, such as a chewable tablet or dissolvable powder.
Increasing Fluid Intake
Drink plenty of water when increasing fiber in your diet or taking fiber supplements. Increased fluid intake may help prevent constipation and may help the intestines digest the fiber.
Diverticulosis Dietary Myth
Doctors used to recommend individuals with diverticulosis avoid eating foods such as popcorn, nuts and seeds with the thought that the small particles could stick in the diverticula and cause an infection, according to MayoClinic.com. Because there is not any medical evidence to support that idea, avoiding foods with seeds and nuts is not necessary for people with diverticulosis. If cramps occur in the intestines after eating this type of food, avoid eating them in the future.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Diverticulitis Diet: Can Certain Foods Trigger an Attack?
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Diverticulosis
- Cleveland Clinic: Gastrointestinal Disorders
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
- FamilyDoctor.org: Fiber: How to Increase the Amount in Your Diet
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