Diverticulitis stems from diverticulosis, a disease that produces tiny sacs around the colon wall. Diverticulitis is the result of these sacs becoming inflamed. Patients often complain of lower abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and fever. Most patients are prescribed antibiotics and ordered to avoid eating certain foods. They are fed through an IV. If the attacks are strong and recurring, surgery may be required.
Patients are commonly ordered to go on a “low residue diet”. Basically, a low residue diet is very low in fiber, and aims to minimize the frequency of bowel movements. This fiber deficiency allows the colon to recover and heal the inflamed sacs, or diverticula. Once a patient has started to show signs of improvement, the amount of fiber may be slowly increased.
So what are some foods to avoid?
- Milk, cheese, etc.
- Beans, legumes
- Dried fruits, berries
- Chocolate
- Juice that contains pulp
- Caffeine
- Whole grain breads
- Pasta
- Nuts, including peanut butter
- Oatmeal
- Meat
- Raw Vegetables
Foods that are OK to eat while suffering with Diverticulitis include cooked white fish, cooked vegetables, white rice, refined pasta, and juices without pulp. The main thing to remember is that nuts, pulp, seeds, skins, etc. should be avoided.
Another important point, is to keep careful watch on nutrition and vitamin intake, since this diet is likely to miss the daily recommended numbers of common vitamins. Good luck and get well soon!