How To Diet For Diverticulitis

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Diverticulitis is mainly a condition of the large intestine. The condition is characterized by inflammation of a pouch that may be present outside the colon as well.

It is a painful condition and many sufferers start avoiding food thinking that certain foods are responsible for Diverticulitis. However, this is a misconception. The condition can be successfully treated by following a particular diet.

It is recommended that particular groups of foods should be eaten to prevent an attack of diverticulitis. Eating these foods in time can also bring down the severity of the condition.

Some of these foods include bran, oats and wheat; note that all the three foods are rich in fiber. You can include other fiber-rich foods in your diet as well. Besides, these are a healthier option than pastas and white rice.

What is The Ideal Diet For Diverticulitis?

Fiber

Fiber-rich foods should be an integral part of your diet if you wish to keep your digestive system healthy. Legumes are good and healthy choice over non-vegetarian foods especially red meat.

Legumes are not only a good source of fiber but also contain proteins. They aid the body in easier digestion. However, when you have diverticulitis, you should eat the fiber-rich foods once the pain caused due to the condition has subsided.

Fresh Vegetables and Fruits

Eating fresh vegetables and fruits is a good way of treating various conditions of the digestive system. Fruits and vegetables not only help ease the pain and inflammation caused by diverticulitis but are also healthy and tasty.

Add fresh and green vegetables to legumes in order to prepare a healthy salad. Use green vegetables like cucumber and spinach to make healthy and tasty dips at home. Always keep your salads light so that your body is able to digest them easily.

Diet To Follow When You Have Flare-ups

When you have an attack of diverticulitis, it is always better to follow the diet recommended by your doctor. The foods help bring down the inflammation and pain associated with the condition.

The ideal diet during diverticulitis is drinking clear liquids, including soups and fresh fruit juices, for a few days. You are also allowed to drink broth, tea, cold water, ice lollies, gelatin mixed in water and clear soda.

Do not eat fibrous foods when you experience the symptoms associated with diverticulitis. Only after the symptoms have subsided should you re-start with your fiber diet.

What Are The Disadvantages Associated With The Diet

There are a few disadvantages of following the above recommended diet for diverticulitis. The clear liquid diet should not be followed for more than 3 days at a stretch.

Your body needs other nutrients as well that are absent or present in very small traces in the liquid diet. Your body will become extremely weak if it experiences nutrient-deficit.

For a smooth transition to a fiber-rich diet from a clear liquid diet it is important that you consult your doctor. Fibers are important for aiding in digestion and for keeping the digestive tract healthy. Along with foods, there are certain herbs as well that help treat the symptoms of diverticulitis effectively.