Diverticulitis is the inflammation of diverticuli, which are abnormal pouches found on the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis occurs when stool becomes trapped in the diverticuli or when the narrow opening of the diverticula becomes obstructed, leading to reduced blood supply to the area. Patients with acute diverticulitis are advised to eat clear liquid foods to allow the colon to rest, according to MayoClinic.com.
Clear-Liquid Diet
Patients with acute diverticulitis are placed on a clear liquid diet for a few days to allow the colon infection to heal, according to MayoClinic.com. Clear liquid diet includes foods that are easily digested and absorbed. Clear liquid diet foods do not contain fiber, which can cause further irritation to the inflamed colon. Examples of clear liquid foods include gelatin, broth, fruit juices without pulp, tea or coffee without cream.
Low-Fiber Diet
Patients are advised to add low-fiber foods after three days of consuming clear liquid foods, according to MayoClinic.com. Low-fiber foods provide energy and nutrients required to enable the colon to heal. Patients who are unable to tolerate low-fiber foods should consult the doctor. Examples of low-fiber foods include white rice, well-cooked vegetables, fruit juices with little pulp, canned fruits, enriched white bread and low-fiber cereals.
High-Fiber Foods
High-fiber foods are recommended for patients who have fully recovered from acute diverticulitis, according to MayoClinic.com. High-fiber foods prevent constipation, which is a major cause of diverticula. Patients should introduce high-fiber foods slowly into the diet to enable the body to adjust to the new diet. Examples of high-fiber foods include brown rice, whole-grain breads and cereals, raw vegetables, raw fruits, beans and lentils.
Symptoms of Acute Diverticulitis
Patients with acute diverticulitis experience symptoms such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain in the lower left abdomen, abdominal tenderness, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, rectal bleeding and weight loss, according to PubMed Health. Untreated diverticulitis may lead to complications such as perforation of the colon, narrowing of the colon, fistula and abscess formation.
