Diverticulitis occurs when one or more of the abnormal pouches found on the colon becomes inflamed and infected. Inflammation of the diverticula is thought to occur when stool gets trapped in the diverticula or when an obstruction causes reduced blood flow to the diverticula. Inflammatory bowel syndrome is a condition in which the colon become inflammed. IBS usually occurs after an infection in the intestines. Diet can help control symptoms of diverticulitis and IBS.
Diverticulitis Diet
Clear liquid and low-fiber diets are recommended for patients recovering from diverticulitis. A clear liquid diet contains no fiber or residue which may irritate an inflamed colon. Clear liquid foods enable the colon to rest and heal. Examples of clear liquid foods include fruit juices, broth and gelatin. Clear liquid foods provide little nutrients and should not be used for more than five days. Low-fiber foods such as white bread and white pasta are usually slowly added to the diet until the patient fully recovers from diverticulitis.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis and Treatments
Patients with diverticulitis experience symptoms such as fever, chills, lower left abdominal pain, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation and bleeding from the rectum, according to Mayo Clinic. Uncomplicated diverticulitis is treated using antibiotics to help kill the bacteria causing the infection. Patients with recurrent diverticulitis, perforation, abcess or fistula may require surgery to remove the diseased part of the colon. Anticholinergic medications are prescribed to be taken 30 minutes before eating so as to reduce colon spasms.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Diet
IBS dietary modifications can be helpful in reducing severity of symptoms. Diarrhea can be prevented by avoiding foods which stimulate colon contractions such as caffeine, tea and cola. High-fiber foods are recommended to prevent constipation and improve the colon's overall health. Gaseous foods such as cabbages, broccoli and beans should be eaten in moderation to prevent excess gas and bloating.
Symptoms and Treatment of IBS
IBS causes symptoms such as gas, bloating, constipation which alternates with diarrhea, mucus in stool, strong urge to have a bowel movement immediately after defecation, abdominal pain and cramping that goes away after a bowel movement. There is no cure for IBS. Several medications are prescribed to treat symptoms. Patients are prescribed a fiber supplement so as to help improve how the colon works.
