Diverticulosis is a chronic condition where multiple pouches bulge outward through weakened spots in the lining of the large intestine. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, or NDDIC, about 10 percent of Americans over the age of 40 have diverticulosis and 10 to 25 percent of those people will develop diverticulitis.
Symptoms, Cause, and Complications
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, or ACG, diverticulosis often has no symptoms but can present with cramps in the abdomen as well as bloating and constipation. Diverticulitis, on the other hand, can present with excrutiating lower abdominal pain associated with fever, diarrhea, cramping, nausea, vomiting, chills, and decreased appetite. The definitive cause of diverticular disease -- diverticulosis and diverticulitis -- is unknown, however NDDIC reports that low fiber intake and lack of exercise may be to blame.
The complications of diverticulitis vary for each individual; bleeding, tearing, and colon blockages can occur.
Dietary Treatment for Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis is treated by increasing the fiber in your diet. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends 20 g and 30 g of fiber per day for women and men, respectively. High fiber foods bulk the stool and keep colon pressure low to prevent diverticulitis outbreaks. Previously, it was recommended that nuts and seeds be avoided. According to NDDIC, there is no research indicating that these types of small particles get lodged in the diverticular pouches causing inflammation or pain. There is no medical reason to strictly avoid any specific foods when you have diverticulosis. However, NDDIC recommends that each person keep a food diary to determine if certain foods cause discomfort and then those foods should be avoided.
High Fiber Foods
Following a high fiber diet can prevent diverticulitis outbreaks. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, breads, cereals, beans, and peas. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that increasing consumption of all types of fiber is beneficial, but insoluble fiber can actually lower the risk of diverticular disease by 40 percent. Sources of insoluble fiber include whole wheat bread, brown rice, barley, bulgur, wheat bran, cucumbers, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes.
Dietary Treatment of Diverticulitis
When a diverticulitis outbreak occurs, the goal is to rest the bowel and reduce inflammation. Since a high fiber diet will stimulate the bowel, the physician will often order a low residue, liquid diet. As symptoms improve, the amount of fiber added back to the diet is increased slowly. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
