Diverticular Disease – what you need to know
What is Diverticular Disease and Diverticulitis Essential Dietary Guidelines for Diverticulitis Management Managing diverticulitis with the right diet is crucial for reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. We see hundreds of patients who have experienced nasty flare ups of their diverticular disease and are lost as to what to eat and how to feel well again. Diverticulitis occurs when small bulging pouches, known as diverticula, form in the digestive tract and become inflamed. It can lead to discomfort and more severe health issues if not managed properly. In this guide, we’ll explore this further along with dietary guidelines that can help you manage diverticulitis effectively and why coming to see a Dietitian is helpful. Understanding Diverticulitis Diverticulitis, a common complication of diverticular disease, affecting 10-25% of those with the condition. Diagnoses are increasing, particularly in people under 45. In those over 50, it is more common in women, while under 50, men are more frequently affected. The condition arises from inflammation or infection caused by bacterial overgrowth in diverticula (small pouches in the colon). Symptoms to Watch For: Persistent abdominal pain. High fever. Nausea or vomiting. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately. Complications: Abscess: A collection of pus requiring drainage or surgery. Bowel Obstruction: Scar tissue may narrow the colon, causing blockages. Perforation: A burst diverticulum can lead to peritonitis, a serious abdominal infection. Bleeding: A ruptured blood vessel in a diverticulum can cause significant bleeding; 1 in 3 cases may need hospital care. Fistulas: Rarely, abnormal connections form between the bowel and organs like the bladder or vagina, often requiring surgery. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and fluids, but severe cases may need surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and management are essential to prevent serious complications. What Is Diverticular Disease The prevalence of diverticular disease varies by age and location, but it’s a common condition in the developed world. In the United States, 30% of people over 50, 50% of people over 60, and 75% of people over 80 have diverticulosis. In the UK, between 1 in 3 and 1 in 2 people will be affected during their lifetime. The Importance of Diet in Managing Diverticulitis Diet is an essential aspect of managing diverticulitis and diverticular disease. Following a proper diet can help alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall digestive health. A diet for diverticulitis typically focuses on increasing fibre intake, avoiding certain foods, and staying hydrated. Correct Diet for Diverticulitis High-Fiber Foods Fiber is crucial for digestive health, and increasing your fibre intake can help prevent future diverticulitis attacks. It aids digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements, which reduces the risk of diverticula becoming inflamed. Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables. Apples, pears, berries, carrots, and spinach are excellent choices. Whole Grains: Choose whole grain bread, pasta, and cereals over refined grains. Brown rice and quinoa are also great options. You can include legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas in soups, salads, or as side dishes because they are high in fibre. Foods to Avoid When managing diverticulitis, it is important to avoid foods that can irritate the digestive system. You should also stay away from foods that might cause blockages in the diverticula. People previously believed that seeds and nuts could get stuck in diverticula and cause inflammation. While recent studies suggest this may not be the case, some people still find that these foods trigger symptoms. Popcorn: Like seeds and nuts, popcorn can be difficult to digest and may aggravate symptoms. Red Meat: High consumption of red meat has been associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis so following a broad and varied protein intake is more appropriate. Low-Fibre Foods During Flare-Ups During a diverticulitis flare-up, a low-fibre diet is often recommended to allow the digestive system to rest. Once symptoms improve, you can gradually reintroduce fibre-rich foods. Clear Liquids: Broths, clear juices, and water can help maintain hydration and give your digestive system a break. Low-Fibre Options: White rice, white bread, and cooked or canned fruits without skins can be easier to digest during flare-ups. Staying Hydrated Proper hydration is crucial when managing diverticulitis. Water helps keep the digestive system functioning smoothly and can prevent constipation, which may exacerbate symptoms. Water: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. This can vary based on your age, weight, health, sex, activity level and climate. Herbal Teas: Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can be soothing and hydrating. Additional Tips for Managing Diverticulitis Regular Meals: Eating at regular intervals can promote digestive health. Avoid long gaps between meals. Moderate Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as excessive consumption can irritate the digestive system. Exercise: Regular physical activity can promote regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. Seeking Professional Guidance While these dietary guidelines can be helpful, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional eg: registered dietitian. They can give you personalised advice based on your health needs. They will make sure your diet supports your overall well-being. Managing diverticulitis involves understanding the importance of diet and making informed food choices. You can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life by eating more fibre, avoiding irritants, and staying hydrated. Always remember to talk to a healthcare professional for personalised advice. This will help make sure your diet plan is safe and effective. By following these important dietary guidelines, you will manage diverticulitis better. This will help you keep a healthy digestive system. How 121 Dietitian Can Help At 121 Dietitian, we’re experts in helping people with gut health issues like diverticulitis. We have different programmes designed to help you manage your condition and improve your overall health. Our dietitians are experienced in dealing with a wide range of health and gut issues, including: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Coeliac Disease Food Intolerances Acid Reflux And of course, Diverticular Disease and Diverticulitis We can help you create a personalised diet plan that works for you. We’ll teach you about the best foods to eat and
