Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is characterized by abdominal pain, cramping and diarrhea that alternate with constipation and bloating. IBS usually occurs after an intestinal infection, such as typhoid fever, according to PubMedHealth. Diverticulitis is the swelling and inflammation of diverticula, which are abnormal pouches found on the wall of the colon. Patients with IBS and diverticulitis require dietary modifications so as to control symptoms of the diseases.
Diet for IBS
Patients with IBS should eat increase dietary intake because it helps to relieve symptoms of the disease, according to PubMedHealth. Patients should opt for high-fiber foods that cause little intestinal gas. Gas forming high-fiber foods, such as broccoli, cabbage and beans, can worsen symptoms of IBS. Patients should also avoid foods and drinks that increase contraction of the intestines because they can cause increased diarrhea. Such foods include caffeine, tea and colas. Patients are also encourages to eat small frequent meals and increase water intake.
Treatment of IBS
IBS is mainly treated with dietary supplements like psyllium and methycellulose, according to PubMedHealth. Doctors also prescribe belladonna and dicyclomine to be taken half an hour before eating to prevent colon muscle spasms, according to PubMedHealth. Loperamide is also prescribed to treat diarrhea. Some doctors believe that IBS is worsened by stress and anxiety and may prescribe antidepressants.
Diet for Diverticulitis
Patients with active diverticulitis symptoms are advised to consume a clear liquid diet to allow the colon to rest and heal, according to MayoClinic. Clear liquid foods include low fiber foods that do not stimulate the colon or leave undigested residue in the colon. Examples of clear liquid foods include plain gelatin, clear fruit juices and broth. Patients should not be on clear liquid foods for more than five days because they provide little nutrition. Once the colon infection heals, patients are encouraged to eat high-fiber foods to avoid developing more diverticula in the colon.
Diverticulitis Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of diverticulitis includes, fever, lower left abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and weight loss, according to PubMedHealth. Diverticulitis is a bacterial infection in abnormal pouches in the colon. Broad antibiotics are used to kill bacteria that cause diverticulitis. Patients should complete the prescribed course to avoid developing complications and antibiotic-resistant infections.
