What Is Diverticular Disease?

Diverticular disease is characterized by development of small pockets in the walls of the colon. Diverticular disease comprises of three different conditions which are Diverticulosis; Diverticular Bleeding and Diverticulitis. Diverticulosis is when pockets start to develop on the lining of the bowel pockets differ in size; some can be small while others can be large. Diverticular bleeding is caused when small blood vessels near the diverticula suffer from chronic injury. Diverticulitis occurs when there is an infection or inflammation in the diverticula. The symptoms of Diverticular Disease includes diarrhea with constipation, fever and painful cramps.

Diet For Diverticular Disease

Different diets are prescribed by doctors in order to deal with different conditions of the Diverticular disease. These diets differ according to the severity of the disease and the aim is to reduce the symptoms of the disease.

Diet For Diverticulosis

Studies conducted by scientists on different occasions revealed that consuming food rich in fiber aids in reducing symptoms of Diverticulosis. This is because fiber aids in softening the stool and also helps in preventing constipation. This reduces the amount of pressure exerted in the colon preventing flare ups of diverticulitis. The American Dietetic Association advised that individuals suffering from this condition should consume about 20-30g of fiber. Here is a list of fiber rich foods that can be included in the diet for Diverticular disease.

• Beans and legumes
• Spinach, fresh or cooked
• Cauliflower, fresh or cooked
• Raspberries
• Broccoli, cooked or fresh
• Oatmeal, plain or cooked
• White rice
• Potato
• Pear
• Apple
• Peach
• Romaine lettuce
• Celery
• Asparagus
• Tangerine
• Whole wheat pasta
• Whole wheat bread
• Corn
• Oatmeal

Foods that are a rich source of dietary fiber should also be included in the diet for Diverticular disease. Here is a list of food rich in dietary fiber.

• Legumes
• Peas
• Onions
• Garlic
• Artichokes
• Apples
• Strawberries
• Carrots

Diet For Diverticulitis

Doctors often advise individuals to follow a strict liquid diet if they are suffering from flare ups of diverticulitis. This type of diet should have no solid food whatsoever, even juices with pulp in them should be avoided. Here is a list of things that you can include in your diet.

• Popsicles
• Apple Juice
• Cranberry Juice
• Grape Juice
• Broth

When an individual start to recover, he/she can shift towards solid food, however, the food should have low fiber. Low fiber foods aid in the healing process. Here is a list of foods that you can add in your diet for Diverticular disease.

• Low-fiber cereal
• White bread
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Canned Vegetables
• Ground Meat

Once you start feeling better again, you can increase fiber intake. However, you should not change your diet plan without consulting your doctor first.

Conclusion

Diet for Diverticular Disease comprises of mainly liquids and fiber rich foods. Both of these food types aid in softening the stools and reducing constipation. These foods also aid in the healing process and help in avoiding symptoms of the disease.