Diverticulitis Diet: 7 Foods to Avoid for Digestive Health
Red meat is typically not recommended for people with diverticulitis. Why red meat causes issues for people with diverticulitis is not entirely clear, but some experts believe it may be related to certain inflammatory chemicals that are released when you eat red meat, such as C-reactive protein and ferritin.
Top 7 Foods to Avoid with Diverticulitis Symptoms
Diverticulitis is a painful condition that can occur when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the lining of the colon. When inflamed, these become extremely painful and can cause diarrhea, constipation, and other problems with digestion. While your doctor may use medications during a flare to treat your condition, you can also regain control by adjusting your diet. This guide will look at some foods to avoid with diverticulitis so you can support healthy digestion.
Things not to eat with diverticulitis
The best diet for diverticulitis is somewhat personal, according to the Mayo Clinic, and you’ll want to consult with your doctor before making drastic changes. You’ll also want to ensure there’s not something else going on with your health to cause your flare-ups. That said, some foods appear to make flare-ups and irritation more common. Changing your diet to eliminate these foods could help reduce inflammation and irritation, making you feel better.
First, aim to follow a generally healthy diet that’s balanced between fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats. Second, know that dietary treatment of diverticulitis is controversial. Some doctors believe avoiding certain foods helps, while others disagree. In addition, make sure you work with your doctor or a dietitian to safely adjust your diet. Finally, check out this list of the 7 foods to avoid with diverticulitis.
1. Seeds and nuts
Nuts and seeds have high amounts of fiber, which are a healthy part of a balanced diet, but this fiber content makes them hard to digest. They’re also usually quite small, and that may allow them to get stuck in the diverticula, continuing the irritation so you can’t heal. Substitute this source of fiber with whole fruits, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and whole grains.
2. Popcorn
Popcorn’s high fiber content can make it difficult to digest during a flare. In addition, the kernel hull can get stuck in the diverticula, which can increase irritation and trigger a flare. The rough, hard pieces on popcorn can also damage the colon wall in people prone to this condition.
If you choose to eat popcorn and are concerned about diverticulitis, chew the food thoroughly to help your body digest it more quickly so you don’t create irritation. You can also swap out the popcorn for other salty, crunchy snacks like pretzels.
3. Spicy foods
Spicy foods may irritate anyone’s digestive system, healthy or not. If you’re prone to diverticulitis, hot sauces, chilies, wasabi, and curry dishes are foods that could risk a flare. You can keep your foods flavorful without the heat using other spices.
Why are spicy foods a risk? Capsaicin can irritate the colon’s lining, which causes inflammation and overall discomfort. This inflammation, in turn, can make the diverticulitis symptoms worse.
4. Fried foods
The fats and oils in fried food are challenging to digest. In addition, the crispy outside of most fried foods can irritate the intestinal lining. Both of these issues cause inflammation and discomfort in the abdomen, which can worsen diverticulitis symptoms.
The link between fried foods and diverticular diseases is well-established, Fatty foods can lead to constipation, and the Cleveland Clinic says constipation can strain the colon and increase the chances of developing the pockets that lead to diverticulitis. The fat in fried food can also block the pockets and allow them to get infected, which, again, is a risk for diverticulitis.
5. Red meat
Red meat’s another high-fat food that people with diverticulitis may feel better if they avoid. It’s harder to digest than poultry, which means it can add to inflammation of the digestive tract.
Interestingly, some medical research shows that red meat not only increases your risk of irritating diverticulitis symptoms but may also increase your risk of developing it in the first place. One Harvard study found that men who ate 13 servings of red meat a week for 26 years were more likely to have diverticulitis than those who ate less.
6. Dairy products
Dairy products, such as yogurt, cheese, and milk, are problematic for people with diverticulitis for two reasons. First, if you have diverticulitis, you may also have lactose intolerance. This means that eating dairy may create bloating, diarrhea, and gas symptoms. Second, dairy products are high in fat. The fat worsens diverticulitis symptoms and makes these foods harder to digest.
Sometimes, eliminating dairy altogether is difficult. If you need dairy for your favorite recipes, choose low-fat options. Try to use moderation with dairy when you do consume it. Similarly, avoid dairy products that have lactose, such as milk and cottage cheese, if you find that lactose is a problem for you.
7. Refined grains and sugars
Refined sugars are highly inflammatory in general, and this means they can irritate diverticulitis problems. Some people find that they have increased problems with diarrhea, a common diverticulitis symptom, when they eat a high-sugar diet.
Grains are more complex. If you don’t have a flare and want to avoid one, the high fiber in whole grains may help. Fiber keeps the digestive tract moving, preventing constipation. When you prevent constipation, you reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis. However, during a flare, the fiber can irritate the digestive system. When you’re in an active flare, you may feel better if you eat refined grains for a short period of time while you heal. This is an area where you’ll need to consult with your doctor for expert advice.
Best dietary changes to support your health
In addition to learning what foods you shouldn’t eat if you have diverticulitis, it’s also a good idea to learn what foods you should eat. First, make sure you’re getting plenty of water every day. Water softens stool and reduces the risk of constipation, which, in turn, can reduce the risk of developing diverticulitis.
Second, learn your triggers. If you know a food makes your diverticulitis symptoms flare, work to avoid it. If a certain “no” food is not a problem for you, and your doctor approves, then eat it without worry.
Finally, take some time to learn to cook. Also, pack your lunch instead of eating on the go. Homemade foods often contain fewer preservatives, unhealthy fats, and refined sugars than foods from a fast-food restaurant.
Diverticulitis is a tricky condition. While doctors know what causes the pain and discomfort, they aren’t fully sure what dietary changes work best. If you’re dealing with this condition, talk to your doctor about what not to eat for diverticulitis. In general, the food to avoid with diverticulitis is the food that makes you feel unwell. Once you’ve created a plan based on your personal triggers and your doctor’s advice, use tools like Evidation to help you plan for healthy dietary choices and track your water intake. Keep track of your health, download the app today!
Diverticulitis Diet: 7 Foods to Avoid for Digestive Health
Diverticulitis is an inflammation of the diverticula which are abnormal protrusions of tissue that can occur anywhere along the digestive tract. It can be a short-term or acute issue, meaning it flares up suddenly and then goes away quickly. However, it can also become a chronic issue over time if not managed well.
Therefore, following a carefully-selected diverticulitis diet is one important way to manage this disease. This article will share 7 foods to avoid with diverticulitis for optimal digestive health, as well as other useful tips to help you manage this condition.
Understanding Diverticulitis
Diverticula can develop in weak areas of the digestive tract. These small pouches usually form because of increased pressure and cause a small protrusion. If a diverticula tears or becomes inflamed, it then becomes diverticulitis. Common symptoms of diverticulitis include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Irregular bowel movements
Symptoms of diverticulitis vary in severity and can easily be confused with other digestive issues which makes it very important to gain an accurate diagnosis from a skilled medical professional.
The most common treatment for diverticulitis is dietary management. You may also need to receive IV fluids or antibiotics in some situations. If the condition becomes severe, your doctor may recommend surgery.
7 Foods to Avoid with a Diverticulitis Diet
Eating the right foods is important when following a diverticulitis diet but it is also crucial to make sure you’re not eating the wrong foods. Below, we’ve listed important foods to avoid when you are dealing with a diverticulitis flare-up.
Whole grains are commonly thought of as a healthy food because they are rich in fiber and other nutrients but the high fiber content can be irritating for someone who is experiencing a flare-up. Because fiber stimulates digestion it causes contractions of the colon, which can be painful and irritating to the digestive tract.
It is important to note that high-fiber foods like whole grains can be beneficial as part of a diverticulosis diet (when the diverticula is not inflamed) because they help prevent constipation and maintain regular bowel movements.
Red meat is typically not recommended for people with diverticulitis. Why red meat causes issues for people with diverticulitis is not entirely clear, but some experts believe it may be related to certain inflammatory chemicals that are released when you eat red meat, such as C-reactive protein and ferritin.
- Cereals and Refined Carbohydrates
Cereals are usually high in sugar and refined carbohydrates which can make diverticulitis flare-ups worse. Some cereals may be okay to eat if they are low in fiber content. Refined carbohydrates can cause inflammation in the gut and imbalance gut bacteria which increases your risk of digestive disorders, such as diverticulitis.
It is common for people with diverticulitis to also have lactose intolerance which can cause digestive discomfort and inflammation. Symptoms from lactose intolerance such as bloating, diarrhea and gas can make a diverticulitis flare-up even more uncomfortable. Also, dairy is high in fat which is not good for people with diverticulitis to have since it’s harder for your body to digest and causes additional inflammation.
Fried foods are saturated in fatty oils which can increase gas and bloating and also contribute to inflammation in the digestive tract. This makes active diverticulitis flare-ups worse and increases your likelihood of experiencing one in the first place.
Legumes such as beans and lentils are high in fiber and may cause discomfort if you’re experiencing a diverticulitis flare-up. If you are going to eat legumes, then cooking them properly by soaking them first and ensuring that they are cooked all the way through can help make them easier to digest.
Spicy foods can be problematic for people with diverticulitis. They are generally known for causing discomfort in the abdomen.
It is important to keep in mind that every person’s disease will manifest a little differently and some research varies concerning diet and diverticulitis. Talk with your doctor about what foods you should eat more of and which ones you should avoid. They can recommend a unique eating plan based on your specific situation and the latest research.
Avoid High FODMAP Foods in a Diverticulitis Diet
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with diverticulitis, you may hear your doctor talk about FODMAP foods. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols, but all you really need to know is that they are a specific type of carbohydrate that can be problematic for people with digestive issues such as diverticulitis.
High FODMAP foods should be avoided by individuals with diverticulitis. Examples include:
- Dairy products
- Fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi
- Legumes such as beans and lentils
- Foods high in trans fat
- Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and Brussels sprouts
- Onions and garlic
Importance of a Healthy Diet for Diverticulitis
Eating a healthy diet is essential in managing symptoms of diverticulitis and maintaining overall digestive health. Your dietary choices can also have an impact on how frequently you experience diverticulitis flare-ups. Making sure you’re getting enough key nutrients in your diet, such as vitamins, minerals and fiber can help with managing diverticulitis and maintaining overall gut health.
Dietary recommendations can vary depending on your unique diagnosis and health. For this reason, you should always follow expert advice from your healthcare team including dietitians and gastroenterologists to ensure proper disease management.
Clear Liquid Diet
A clear liquid diet is sometimes recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up since it can give the digestive tract some time to heal and recover. This diet involves avoiding solid foods and only consuming clear liquids such as water, juice and broth. Clear liquid diets include foods that are gentle on the digestive tract and easy to digest, helping to manage symptoms like nausea and discomfort.
High Fiber vs. Low Fiber: Which Is Better for a Diverticulitis Diet?
Fiber helps prevent constipation and ensure digestive health. However, it is a tricky subject in the context of diverticulitis. Typically, it is recommended to eat a high-fiber diet if you have diverticulosis and are prone to flare-ups. Eating fiber regularly can help to ensure healthy digestive function to prevent a flare-up.
However, during a flare-up, it would be recommended that you avoid fiber since it can increase your digestion and cause additional pain and discomfort. Each individual will tolerate fiber differently, so it is important to follow your doctor’s unique recommendations.
Benefits of a High-Fiber Diet
A high-fiber diet can be beneficial since it helps to ensure regular bowel movements. Healthy digestion prevents diverticulitis flare-ups. So, if you have diverticulosis and you are not currently experiencing a diverticulitis flare-up, then a high-fiber diet can be a helpful way to manage your disease.
Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. It is important to eat a wide variety of fiber-rich foods to ensure that you’re getting a well-rounded fiber intake since not all sources of fiber are created equal.
If you don’t already eat a high-fiber diet and you are going to transition, make this change slowly. Start by incorporating fiber-rich snacks throughout the day and pay attention to how your body tolerates fiber before eating high volumes of it.
Low-Fiber Diet During Flare-Ups
Although eating more fiber is beneficial to prevent flare-ups, you’ll actually want to cut down your fiber intake when you are in the midst of a flare-up. This is because you want to give your digestive tract time to rest and heal and cutting down on fiber will help to reduce digestive activity, easing symptoms to reduce inflammation.
Final Thoughts
Diet recommendations for diverticulitis can vary, depending on your unique situation. Whether you’re at risk of a diverticulitis flare-up or actually in the midst of one makes a big difference in terms of what type of foods you should be eating. For this reason, it is important to talk with your doctor about what types of foods are best for you to eat and always stay up to date on the latest research about diet and diverticulitis.
Working with skilled healthcare providers like those at UCF Health can help you best manage your disease, ensuring that your treatment recommendations are based on years of expertise and the most recent data.
