Diverticulosis describes the existence of pocket-like sacs called diverticuli in the lining of your colon. About half of all Americans over 60 have diverticulosis, according to National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. When food particles get caught in the diverticuli, they become inflamed. Inflammation of the diverticuli is called diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is painful. A high-fiber diet may help prevent you from developing diverticulits. The American Dietetic Association recommends you consume 20 to 35 g of fiber daily.
Water Insoluble Fiber
Water-insoluble dietary fiber is the edible part of plants that does not dissolve in water. Water insoluble fiber is healthy for you because it helps promote regular bowel movements and reduces your chances of developing constipation. Healthy bowel movements result in decreased stress and pressure on your colon. Foods rich in water-insoluble dietary fiber include flaxseed, whole-grain breakfast cereals containing wheat bran, carrots and celery.
Water Soluble Fiber
Water-soluble dietary fiber is the edible part of a plant that forms a gel or gum in water. Water soluble fiber is a healthy part of your diet because it can help to lower your blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Both soluble and insoluble fibers are needed in order to help maintain the health of your colon, as reported in The Diet Channel. Water-soluble dietary fiber is found mainly in oats, beans like black beans and kidney beans, fruits such as apples and pears, and some vegetables like spinach, peas and squash.
Fluids
You should be sure to drink at least eight, 8-oz. glasses of fluid per day when eating a high fiber diet. This practice will help prevent you from becoming constipated. By absorbing water, the fiber in your diet is able to increase the softness and bulk of your stools.
Considerations
If you are not accustumed to eating a diet rich in fiber, you should begin to gradually increase your fiber intake. It is important to increase your fiber intake gradually in order to avoid bloating, gas and stomach discomfort. You should consume a wide variety of foods high in dietary fiber. Although some physicians advise you to avoid nuts, popcorn, and seeds because they could irritate your diverticuli, eating a high-fiber diet is the only requirement strongly stated in the medical literature.
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