Diverticulitis is the acute, or symptomatic version of the condition diverticulosis. These flare-ups are characterized by symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, fever and nausea. This is caused by inflammation and infection of diverticuli, small pouches that form in the lower intestine caused by constipation and straining to empty the bowels. A high-fiber diet can help prevent episodes of diverticulitis however, if you are in the midst of a flare-up, your diet is specifically low in bulk to prevent worsening of symptoms. This also allows your intestines to heal faster so you can reintroduce high-fiber foods to prevent a recurrence. Check with your doctor before making significant dietary changes when experiencing a bout of diverticulitis.
Clear Liquids
When you are experiencing the acute phase of diverticulitis, which is when your symptoms are at their worst, you may find relief by consuming a diet of clear liquids. Examples of clear-liquid foods include broths, sugar-free flavored gelatin and ice pops. Your doctor may also recommend that you avoid carbonated beverages and beverages that contain caffeine, both of which can cause worsening of symptoms. Choose fruit juices like white grape and apple, which are less acidic and less likely to cause excess gas, unlike prune or orange juices. Additionally, avoid juices that have pulp or sediment such as apple cider, because small particles can cause symptoms to worsen.
Foods Low in Fiber
When you begin to experience relief from your symptoms of diverticulitis, your doctor may suggest a low-fiber diet. Your goal during a bout of diverticulitis is to allow your intestines to heal. Once they heal, however, your goal should be to attain a high-fiber diet which can help prevent symptoms from returning. According to the Mayo Clinic, foods that are recommended for the low-fiber stage include eggs, canned fruit, plain yogurt, pasta and bread. Avoid foods that contain nuts or seeds, which can cause problems for some people with diverticulitis. Any fiber you consume at this stage should come from low-fiber cereals, canned fruit and peeled, seeded, well-cooked vegetables.
Foods Moderate in Fiber
As your symptoms continue to subside, your doctor will likely recommend that you gradually introduce more fiber into your daily diet. Adding a food item that is higher in dietary fiber to one meal each day can help your digestive system to acclimate to the addition. With your doctor's guidance, add more fiber each week and use your symptoms as a way to gauge whether to continue to increase it. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids, especially water, which is necessary for fiber to pass through your digestive system properly.
High-Fiber Foods
When diverticulitis is fully resolved, it's important to follow a high-fiber diet to prevent it from returning. Foods like fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products, beans and legumes are excellent sources of dietary fiber. According to the Mayo Clinic, women should try to consume at least 25 g and men should consume at least 38 g of fiber daily. If it's difficult for you to consistently reach these recommended minimums, talk to your doctor about taking a fiber supplement, available in pill, capsule and powder forms.
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