Diverticular disease is the presence of abnormal pouches (diverticula) in the large intestinal wall. When these outpouches are inflamed, the condition is called diverticulitis. Most people who have diverticulosis have no symptoms and are unaware they have the disease until a diverticulum becomes inflamed. Although a high-fiber diet decreases the risk of diverticular disease, diverticulitis treatment focuses on bowel rest to prevent complications. The diet generally begins with a clear liquid diet, advances to a full liquid diet, then progresses to a low fiber, low residue diet.
Clear Liquid Diet
If you have nausea and vomiting, a clear liquid diet is recommended. This diet should be followed no more than two to three days during the acute stage of diverticulitis because it is nutritionally inadequate. All solids and milk-based liquids should be avoided to allow the bowel to rest, but to stay hydrated. Fruit and vegetable juices with pulp should be avoided as well. Liquids that are allowed are apple juice, punch and juice blends, tea, coffee, broth, jello and ice pops.
Full Liquid Diet
As the nausea and vomiting subside, you may progress to a full liquid diet. With this diet, solids are still to be avoided, but you can start introducing some milk, ice cream and meal replacement drinks. Because dairy can stimulate bowel movement, it should be limited to 2 cups per day. Pudding and yogurt (without seeds) may also be introduced.
Low Fiber, Low Residue Diet
When you feel well enough to tolerate solid foods, you can start on a low fiber, low residue foods. An intake of less than 10 grams of fiber per day is considered a low residue, low fiber diet. Low residue is more than just low fiber. Some low fiber foods, like dairy products and coffee, can increase residue and stimulate bowel movement, therefore their consumption should be restricted. All whole-grain breads, whole-grain cereal, whole-grain flour and popcorn should be avoided. Potatoes are fine as long as they are peeled. Raw vegetables, especially those from the cruciferous family such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage, should be avoided. Fruits and vegetable juices are fine except for prune juice. Avoid fruit skins, dried fruits and berries. Meat does not contain any fiber, but try to stay away from tough, fibrous meats at this time. Nuts, seeds and legumes (beans and lentils) should be avoided as well.
After the Flareup
When the inflammation subsides, incorporate high-fiber foods into your diet slowly. A high-fiber diet (especially insoluble fiber as in vegetables and whole grains) is found to reduce the risk of diverticulosis. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to prevent constipation.
References
- Tonia Reinhard,MS, RD. Gastrointestinal Disorders and Nutiriton. The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2002.
- RD411.com. Diseases and Medical Conditions. Diverticulitis
Member Comments