Diverticulitis is a common disorder that results from the inflammation of small pockets, or diverticula, in the large intestines. When these pockets become inflamed, symptoms of abdominal cramping, nausea and muscle spasms may occur. Diets low in fiber may result in a higher risk of developing diverticulitis. Often, diverticulitis can be controlled by diet alone, although sometimes medicines or surgery are needed to correct the condition. Consulting with a physician or registered dietitian can help you determine a diet appropriate for your specific needs.
High-Fiber Foods
A well-balanced diet, high in fiber, may prevent diverticulitis. This includes slowly adding fiber to your diet to reach the daily recommended goal of 25 to 35 g of fiber for adults. Whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber to add to your diet. Couple a high fiber diet with plenty of water to help digestion.
Nuts and Seeds
Although once considered taboo in the diet of people with diverticular disease, consuming nuts and seeds does not appear to increase the risk of developing diverticulitis, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The original thought was that small nuts and seeds could lodge themselves in the diverticula and cause inflammation, triggering diverticulitis, although there is no scientific data to back up this claim. Regardless, many people with diverticulitis believe these foods aggravate symptoms, and you should avoid nuts and seeds if you think they cause problems.
Cooking and Dining Tips
Choosing foods high in fiber is the best way to prevent diverticulitis through diet. Checking food labels for total grams of fiber will help you compare similar foods so you can choose the food with the most fiber. Also, switching to brown rice and whole-wheat pasta instead of the white versions can boost fiber content. Fresh fruits and vegetables contain more fiber than juices and foods prepared with minimal cooking retain more of their fibrous components. Dried beans, peas and lentils added to soups and casseroles can also increase the fiber content of food.
Diet for Acute Phases
During a bout of diverticulitis, your doctor will put you on a low-fiber diet, when you have symptom, to allow the bowel time to heal. Your doctor may recommend starting with clear liquids and advancing your diet to a low-fiber, low-residue diet. This includes foods opposite to those recommended during the maintenance and prevention stages of diverticular disease, such as white breads, fruit juice, peeled and well-cooked vegetables and canned fruits. Once symptoms subside, a you can slowly reintroduce a high-fiber diet.
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