How to Treat Diverticulitis, Beyond the Diet

Diets lacking in dietary fiber, which are common in industrialized countries, can cause constipation, which may provoke unnatural contractions of the large intestine, which in turn leads to the formation of diverticula. This condition, called diverticulosis, can develop into diverticulitis when the diverticula become inflamed or infected. The specific cause remains unknown, but the disease mostly affects people who are over age 60 and overweight. It can be painful and may lead to complications such as abscesses, intestinal obstruction, or perforation of the intestinal wall. In addition to abdominal cramps and pain, other symptoms include gas, fever, and rectal bleeding. Constipation may alternate with diarrhea.

Old School
People with diverticulitis must avoid nuts and seeds.
New Wisdom
There is no scientific evidence to support the association between nuts and seeds diverticulitis.

The type of care you receive depends on the severity of your symptoms. Talk to your doctor about what to expect and treatment options, which range from home care and liquid diets to different types of surgery.

Nutrition Connection
These dietary guidelines can help prevent or delay diverticulosis and diverticulitis.
Try the following:
-Eat more fiber, rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Diverticulitis is known to be less common among vegetarians than those who include meat in their diet, as vegetarian diets are typically higher in fiber-rich foods, such as berries, apples, pears, bananas, figs, bran, brown rice, barley, lentils, black beans, split peas, and artichokes. However, it is important to increase fiber intake gradually. If you have diverticular disease, do not start taking fiber supplements without first talking with your doctor.

QUICK TIP:
-Go “exotic” once a month
-Once a month, add a new type of grain to your diet. This will help slowly introduce more fiber to your diet, which helps diverticulitis. Mix in some amaranth, bulgur, or wheatberries into steamed carrots and broccoli, toss with olive oil and a bit of Parmesan or feta cheese, maybe throw in a can of tuna or a couple of ounces of cut-up chicken, and you’ve got dinner.
-Drink fluids. Along with a high-fiber diet, at least eight glasses of clear liquids like water, tea, or broth every day produces bulky, soft stools that move easily through the intestinal tract. Not enough fluids can lead to constipation.
Keep notes. Make note of foods that cause inflammation or pain and avoid them.

Beyond the Diet
Diverticulosis sufferers should keep track of their symptoms and follow these recommendations:
-Go to the bathroom when you have to. If you have diverticular disease, constipation can increase your risk of a diverticulitis flare-up because it increases pressure within your colon.
-Exercise. Exercise reduces pressure inside your colon and encourages normal bowel movements.