Diverticulitis is a condition in which the small, bulging pouches called diverticula become inflamed. Since the pouches typically develop in your large intestine, diverticulitis can interfere with digestion and cause abdominal pain, bloody stool, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting and, in some cases, fever. If your symptoms are severe, you may require hospitalization. While dietary changes can't cure diverticulitis, certain foods may help minimize your symptoms. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian.
Grains
Diverticulitis was first recognized in the United States around the time processed foods were introduced to Americans. By contrast, populations who eat fiber-rich diets have low incidences of the disease. For these reasons, a low-fiber diet is believed to cause diverticular disease. During a diverticulitis flareup, you may require low-fiber foods, according to MayoClinic.com, such as white bread and enriched cereals, to reduce the amount of stool and strain in your digestive tract. Otherwise, whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, wild rice, whole wheat bread and pearled barley are valuable sources of fiber and nutrients. Grains, whether whole or refined, provide glucose -- your body's main dietary source of energy.
Fluids
Fluids promote hydration, which is important for preventing or alleviating constipation. During a diverticulitis attack, your doctor may recommend a clear liquid diet. If this is the case, MayoClinic.com describes water, clear broth, pulp-free fruit juices, ice chips, club soda, popsicles, plain gelatin and plain tea or coffee as useful options.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir provide valuable nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, and probiotics -- beneficial bacteria that promote digestive wellness and immune function. Probiotics may help reduce diverticulitis by helping your intestines stay healthy, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. For best results, consume yogurt or kefir containing probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or bifidobacteria, routinely.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants -- nutrients that help your immune system stay strong. As fiber and water-rich foods, fresh fruits and vegetables may also help manage constipation associated with diverticulitis and enhance fullness, which is important for reaching and maintaining a healthy weight. Since obesity increases your risk for diverticulitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, try replacing calorie-rich snack foods with fruits and vegetables, particularly if you carry excess weight. If your doctor suggests a low-fiber diet, choose pealed, cooked or canned fruits and vegetables. Otherwise, incorporate a variety into your diet regularly. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in fiber and nutrients include berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, guava, tomatoes, leafy greens, brussels sprouts, broccoli, artichokes, peas, beans and lentils.
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