When it comes to your digestive health, what you eat does matter — especially if you’ve been diagnosed with diverticulosis. This chronic condition happens when tiny pouches (diverticula) form in the wall of your colon.
Diverticula are common, especially in older people, and in most cases, you won’t even know you have them. However, sometimes diverticulosis progresses to diverticulitis, an inflammatory condition that causes pain, bloating, and sometimes, serious complications.
The good news? You can reduce your risk of developing diverticulitis and its complications by making a few simple tweaks to your eating habits. In this post, the team at Desert West Surgery explains what to do.
Most of us have at least heard about fiber’s benefits for digestive health: fiber helps bulk up stool so it’s easier to pass, and it also promotes more regular bowel movements. If you have diverticulosis, healthy bowel habits reduce the risk of inflammation and infection, which is why getting plenty of fiber is even more critical.
Fruits and vegetables are delicious sources of fiber, and so are whole grains, beans, and legumes. On the other hand, it’s a good idea to limit red meats, fried foods, unhealthy fats, sugars, and processed foods, all of which can trigger inflammation and slow down bowel activity.
That said, there’s one important exception to the eat-more-fiber rule: If you already have diverticulitis, it’s a good idea to limit fiber intake during flare-ups. That’s because during symptomatic episodes, your colon needs to rest, and eating a lot of fiber during this time could make your symptoms worse.
Your bowel doesn’t just need fiber — it needs fluids, too. In fact, without ample hydration, that high-fiber diet can slow down bowel activity and lead to uncomfortable constipation.
Drinking plenty of water promotes normal bowel activity and softens stool, making it easier to pass. Ideally, aim for eight glasses of water each day — more if it’s hot or you’re engaging in physical activity. Limit caffeine and alcohol, both of which can irritate your bowel and cause dehydration, increasing the risk of diverticulitis and its symptoms.
If you’re having bowel symptoms, like cramping or bloating, it’s time to switch up your diet. In addition to limiting fiber while symptoms are active, it’s a good idea to turn to clear liquids, like broth, gelatin, clear juices, or ice pops. Skip anything spicy.
As your symptoms improve, don’t celebrate with a big, heavy meal. Instead, move on to soft foods with limited amounts of fiber to get your bowels back on track. A gentle transition back to your regular diet helps symptoms subside while avoiding triggering a new round of discomfort.
Diverticulitis causes symptoms such as abdominal cramps and bloating. Taking note of early signs of a flare-up can help you prepare by limiting fiber, drinking more water, and taking other preventive measures to help reduce discomfort.
If you notice symptoms like fever, severe belly pain, vomiting, or blood in your stool, you should call the office right away, as these can be signs of a more serious problem that needs urgent or emergent care.
At Desert West Surgery, our team is ready to help you manage diverticulitis and other gastrointestinal issues with tailored care focused on relieving symptoms and avoiding complications. To learn how we can help you prioritize your digestive health, call Desert West Surgery and schedule a visit at the Las Vegas location nearest you.
