Diet For Diverticulitis | How To Heal Your Digestive System

What Is The Diet For Diverticulitis?

A diet for diverticulitis may be recommended by your doctor as a temporary measure along with antibiotics when you have mild diverticulitis. So what exactly is diverticulitis? Some people develop tiny pouches in the lining of their colon, each of these is a diverticulum. At this stage the person is said to have diverticulosis. Usually diverticulosis does not cause distress, but the main symptom is severe abdominal pain. Other symptoms can include constipation, fever, nausea and vomiting. When these pouches get inflamed the person is said to have diverticulitis. The aim of a diet for diverticulitis is to give your digestive system a rest and allow it to heal. 

What Causes Diverticulitis?

It is thought that diverticulitis is caused by a diet that is low in fiber.  Although fiber does not contribute directly to any nutritional needs, it is important for a healthy colon. A diet for diverticulitis is structured to gradually introduce more fibre into the diet. Initially when you have a diverticulitis flare up, it is necessary to be on a low fiber diet. However, once your condition has improved you need to go on to a high fiber diet plan.

A Typical Diet For Diverticulitis

When first diagnosed with diverticulitis the doctor may recommend you to go on a low-fiber diet. The gives the colon time to heal without being overworked. Once your condition has improved you may be advised to change your diet to a high fiber diet. This is to make your colon have more regular movements and to prevent the risk of forming more pouches.

Low Fiber Diet For Diverticulitis

Your doctor may advise you to start with clear liquids at first, then gradually start adding low fiber foods such as:

High Fiber Diet For Diverticulitis

As you start healing, your doctor may advise you to gradually start adding high fiber foods such as:

The Best Diet For Diverticulitis

The correct diet for diverticulitis and the amount of fiber needed therefore depends on whether you have a condition that has flared up, or whether you want to prevent or control the condition. Remember, diverticulitis can be controlled and prevented with the correct diet. It is important to maintain a healthy diet with an adequate amount of fiber. If you are unable to include a suitable amount of fiber in your daily meals, your doctor may recommend fiber supplements such as psyllium husk. Keeping hydrated and drink enough water during the day also helps. A healthy colon is a happy colon!

Scroll to Top