Are Pears a Food to Avoid for Diverticulitis?

Are Pears a Food to Avoid for Diverticulitis?
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Diverticulitis is the swelling and inflammation of abnormal pouches on the wall of the large intestine. It occurs when the narrow openings of the diverticula trap stool, according to PubMed Health website. Diverticulitis can also occur due to reduced blood supply to the diverticula. You should avoid pears during acute diverticulitis, according to MayoClinic.com.

Pears

During the acute phase of diverticulitis, your doctor may advise you to avoid eating pears because the fiber content of this fruit can cause further irritation in the colon. A clear liquid diet is the recommendation during the acute phase of diverticulitis, according to MayoClinic.com. The body digests clear liquid foods easily, which enables your colon to rest and heal. A clear liquid diet also provides fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Examples of clear liquid foods include gelatin, black coffee or tea, fruit juice without pulp and clear broth.

Low-Fiber Foods

When you begin to feel better, your doctor may advise you to add pear juice and other low-fiber foods and drinks to your diet. These are high in calories and provide the energy and nutrients you need to recover from diverticulitis. Examples of low-residue foods include white rice, white bread and pasta. Consult your doctor if you experience an upset stomach after eating these items.

High-Fiber Foods

After full recovery from diverticulitis, your doctor might advise you to eat plenty of high-fiber foods to prevent future attacks, according to MayoClinic.com. Include raw pears in your diet because they have high fiber content. Add high-fiber foods gradually to your diet to prevent gas and bloating. Consult your doctor about eating high-fiber foods that contain seeds and nuts. Some doctors believe seeds and nuts can cause diverticulitis when trapped in the diverticula.

Symptoms

Symptoms of diverticulitis include left lower abdominal cramp-like pain that worsens when you cough, lift or strain. Other symptoms include increased abdominal gas, bloating, bloody stools, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills, according to PubMed Health. Seek early treatment for diverticulitis. Untreated, it can lead to complications such as colon perforation, bleeding from the colon, abscess and fistulas.

References

Article reviewed by John Yoset Last updated on: Aug 18, 2011

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