Diabetics must follow a healthy diet to decrease the risk of developing further health complications. In addition to increased risk of heart and kidney disease, diabetics may also have digestive problems. First noticed in the U.S. in the early 1900s, diverticulosis is a digestive condition linked to decreased fiber intake and increased consumption of processed foods. Many of the foods that comprise a healthy diet for diabetes are also effective in treating diverticulosis.
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis develops when small pouches known as diverticula bulge through weak spots in the lining of the large intestine or colon. Although many people with diverticulosis do not experience symptoms, cramps or discomfort in the lower abdomen, bloating and constipation are symptoms associated with this condition. Check with your doctor to confirm you have diverticulosis because other digestive conditions, such as Crohn's disease, stomach ulcers and lactose intolerance, have similar symptoms.
Diet
The most effective diet to prevent diverticulosis is one high in fiber, which is an indigestible carbohydrate in plants. Fiber decreases your risk of developing diverticulosis because it helps keep stool soft and it lowers the pressure inside the colon so that bowel can be easily released. Fiber is also an important part of a diabetic diet because it helps lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and blood glucose levels. The American Dietetic Association suggests that men and women under the age of 50 should consume at least 38 g and 25 g of fiber, respectively. These levels decrease for adults over 50, with men needing 30 g of fiber and and women requiring 21 g.
Sources of Fiber
Although foods rich in fiber are healthy options for both diabetes and diverticulosis, make sure that you get fiber from complex carbohydrates instead of simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, from refined grains and white flour, are limited in fiber and also rapidly increase blood glucose levels. Getting your fiber from complex carbohydrates like whole grains and pastas is healthier when you have diabetes because it takes longer to digest and the release of sugar in the blood is slower. Other healthy foods rich in fiber include beans, nuts, fruits and vegetables.
Tips
Despite the beneficial effects of fiber for preventing and treating diverticulosis, gradually add it to your diet to avoid bloating and gas. It is also important that you monitor your overall carbohydrate intake to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Eating too many carbohydrates may cause high blood sugar. Drinking at least 64 oz of water helps the fiber move through the digestive system and it prevents constipation, which is a risk factor for developing diverticulosis.
