Diverticulosis is a condition caused by weakened areas in the walls of the large intestine leading to small, bulging sacs called diverticula. Eating certain foods can make diverticulosis worse. Foods that are thought to increase the risk of symptomatic diverticulosis include foods low in fiber or roughage, such as white bread, cakes, biscuits, crisps and red meats.
Processed foods that contain artificial fillers and additives, as well as canned and frozen foods, may also increase the risk. On the other hand, foods high in fiber and roughage, such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, alfalfa, oat bran and wheat bran, can help to reduce the risk.
Eating a diet that is high in fiber is beneficial for overall bowel health and reducing symptoms of diverticulosis. It’s important to ensure that your diet contains a wide range of healthful, fiber-rich foods and to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, in order to reduce the risk of having symptoms from diverticulosis.
How do you make diverticulosis go away?
As once the pouches have formed they cannot be removed. However, the condition can be managed by making lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and exercise, as well as taking medications to reduce inflammation.
A high-fiber diet is essential for individuals with diverticulosis as it helps to bulk up stools, making stools easier to pass. Additionally, adding fiber to the diet slowly can help reduce the risk of uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating.
Regular exercise is also important, as this can help to reduce stress and abdominal pressure. Along with lifestyle modifications, a doctor might prescribe medications such as antispasmodics, antibiotics, and even pain relievers to alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation.
In more severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the diseased portion of the colon or close fistulas, but this is typically reserved for cases that are severe and not responding to other treatments.
What causes diverticulosis to flare up?
Diverticulosis can flare up for a variety of reasons, although the exact cause is not known. Possible triggers for a flare up include constipation, dehydration, a low-fiber diet, specific foods such as nuts, seeds and popcorn, certain medications (especially narcotics), a sudden spike in stress and/or psychological issues, and more.
All of these can irritate the already diseased colon, resulting in a flare-up.
Constipation is thought to be the most common cause of diverticulitis flares, as it leads to straining, which can increase abdominal pressure, resulting in a disruption of the colon walls and the formation of new diverticula.
If the diverticula become inflamed or infected, diverticulitis can occur. Eating a low-fiber diet can also increase the risk for flares, as this may cause constipation and cause ingested food to move more slowly through the intestines, again resulting in abdominal pressure and irritation.
Certain foods can also increase the risk of a flare up. Foods that may be irritating to the colon, such as popcorn hulls, nuts, or seeds, are not recommended for those with diverticulosis, as these can be particularly difficult to digest, resulting in irritation of the diverticula.
Additionally, narcotic medications can relax the colon and cause slowed digestion, leading to irritation and inflammation.
Finally, a sudden increase in stress or psychological issues can lead to a flare. Stress and psychological issues can alter levels of certain hormones, which can affect the muscles of the intestines and lead to an increase in abdominal pressure and bowel obstruction.
The disruption of the bowels can result in a flare up.
In short, the precise cause of a potential flare-up in diverticulosis is not known, but it is likely related to irritation of the colon caused by constipation, dehydration, a low-fiber diet, certain foods, medications, and/or stress and psychological issues.
What should I eat and drink when my diverticulitis flares up?
When diverticulitis flares up, you should make sure to focus on eating and drinking foods that are gentle on your digestive system. This means avoiding foods that are high in fiber, spicy, or difficult to digest, including processed foods and fried items.
Instead, try to focus on foods that are easier to digest, such as broth-based soups, safer and more bland proteins such as eggs and chicken, and foods that are steamed, boiled, or poached instead of fried.
You should also make sure to drink plenty of fluids and stay well hydrated. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day and drink other hydrating liquids such as low-sugar drinks and broths. Avoid coffee, tea, and alcohol as these can be irritating for the digestive tract.
You should also try to get plenty of rest and relaxation to support your digestive system as it heals.
Should I worry about diverticulosis?
It is important to recognize that the majority of diverticulosis cases do not require any treatment and will not cause any symptoms. However, if you are concerned about diverticulosis, you should seek medical advice to determine if you are at risk of developing more serious complications.
Your doctor may conduct a physical exam and review your medical history, as well as order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or colonoscopies. In some cases, they may also take tissue samples (biopsies) to further evaluate the condition.
Your doctor can help you manage any symptoms you may be experiencing and provide guidance on lifestyle changes that may help reduce your risk of complications. Treatment usually focuses on treating any underlying conditions and helping to improve digestive system health.
This may involve increasing fiber intake, drinking more fluids, and avoiding straining during bowel movements. In more serious cases, surgery can help remove damaged and diseased tissue in the intestine.
It is important to remember that although diverticulosis can be worrisome, most cases are treatable and manageable. Talk to your doctor if you have any ongoing concerns about the condition.
Is Metamucil good for diverticulosis?
Yes, Metamucil can be beneficial for people with diverticulosis. This fiber supplement helps add bulk to your stool and can help relieve symptoms associated with diverticulosis such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
It also helps improve digestion and regularity. Metamucil comes in several forms, such as powder, capsules, and wafers, so you can choose the one that works best for you. To use the powder or capsules, simply mix it with a glass of 8 ounces of water or juice.
The powder can also be added to yogurt or smoothies. For best results, start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day while taking Metamucil.
Taking Metamucil can help alleviate symptoms of diverticulosis and improve overall digestive health. Be sure to talk to your doctor before using Metamucil or any other fiber supplement.
Does drinking water help diverticulosis?
Drinking water can help with diverticulosis in two ways. Firstly, drinking sufficient amounts of water can help prevent the condition from occurring. It can help to prevent constipation which is one of the major causes of diverticulosis.
Therefore, it is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of fluids a day, such as water, juices, and soups.
Secondly, drinking water can help to improve digestive symptoms of diverticulosis, such as cramps, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. It can help to thin out the stool and move it through the intestines, thereby providing a gentler method of relieving constipation and reducing some of the uncomfortable symptoms.
When drinking water for diverticulosis, it is important to remember to avoid filling your stomach up too quickly. Drinking too much water at once can cause bloating and make it difficult to tolerate.
So, it is best to drink a few sips of water at a time throughout the day.
