A diverticula is a small bulging pouch in your digestive tract. When this becomes infected, the condition will lead to what we commonly know as diverticulitis. The symptoms may include fever, abdominal pain, and nausea. The treatment depends on the symptoms and the severity of the problem. In severe cases, the management would include surgery and other aggressive forms of treatment. But in mild cases, the disease can be treated with a well established diverticulitis diet, antibiotics, and rest.
Mild Attacks Of Diverticulitis
During mild attacks, the doctor may recommend two forms of diet, namely: low fiber diet and clear liquid diet. Following this diet is essential for the infection to subside and heal.
Clear Liquid Diet
There are foods recommended on a clear liquid diet. These foods may include the following:
well-cooked vegetables without hulls, skins or seeds
canned products
fruit juice with little to no pulp
raw cooked or canned fruits without membranes, seeds, and skins
low-fiber cereals
plain pasta, white rice, macaroni or noodles
enriched white bread
Within a few days of strict compliance with this diet, you will begin to see improvement in your condition. And once you are starting to feel well again, you can slowly increase the fiber in your diet. Usually, the doctor would recommend an additional 5 to 15 grams of fiber per day so your digestive system will be given enough time to adjust to the change.
How To Prevent Diverticulitis Attacks
Through the help of diet, diverticulitis attacks can be greatly lessened. Here is what to do in your diet:
Exercise Regularly
You can expect the best results from a diverticulitis diet if it's coupled with exercise. Through workouts, you can allow your body to have better peristalsis, thus reducing the risk of constipation and an inflamed diverticula. The pressure in your colon is also greatly relieved through exercise.
Drink Plenty Of Fuids
The soft, bulky waste in your digestive tract is often relieved by water. Fiber absorbs the water and increases the bulky waste. If you do not drink plenty of water together with fiber, you can get constipated.
Eat More Fiber
Together with water, a diverticulitis patient should eat more fiber. Foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help pass stool swiftly through the colon. About 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day can help reduce the attacks. If you find it difficult to include fiber in your day to day meals, you can ask for fiber supplements from your doctors.
Following the diverticulitis diet can help lessen the symptoms and improve your condition. If you are able to comply with the diet recommended by the doctor, you can expect little to no attacks of diverticulitis at all.
