Foods for Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis: What to Eat and Avoid
Explore dietary strategies for managing diverticulosis and diverticulitis, including optimal foods, those to avoid, and tips to prevent flare-ups.
Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are two related digestive conditions that affect the colon. Understanding which foods are beneficial and which ones may cause problems can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This comprehensive guide explores dietary approaches to both conditions, highlighting foods to eat, foods to avoid, and how fiber intake affects your risk and symptom profile.
What Are Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis?
Diverticulosis is characterized by the formation of small pouches (diverticula) in the lining of the colon. These pouches are common, especially in older adults, and often cause no symptoms. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected, leading to abdominal pain, fever, changes in bowel habits, and other symptoms.
Effective dietary management is crucial for both conditions, as nutrition plays a central role in symptom control and long-term health.
Dietary Guidance for Diverticulosis
The primary goal for people with diverticulosis is to prevent progression to diverticulitis and to promote digestive health. The most important dietary recommendation is increasing fiber intake.
High-Fiber Foods to Eat
- Whole grains: 100% whole wheat bread, bran cereals, oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, wild rice, popcorn
- Beans and legumes: black beans, lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans
- Vegetables: spinach, broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts
- Fruits: berries, apples and pears (with skin), oranges
- Nuts and seeds: almonds, pistachios, sunflower and pumpkin seeds
Increasing fiber gradually can help minimize digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas. It’s essential to drink plenty of water—aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses daily—to help fiber move through your digestive system and reduce constipation risk.
Recommended Daily Fiber Intake
| Group | Recommended Fiber (grams/day) |
|---|---|
| Women ≤50 years | 25 |
| Women >50 years | 21 |
| Men ≤50 years | 38 |
| Men >50 years | 30 |
Tips for Increasing Fiber Intake
- Begin slowly: Add one fiber-rich food to your daily meals every few days to give your digestive system time to adjust.
- Hydrate: Drink water with every meal and throughout the day.
- Be cautious with processed foods: Choose whole versions of grains and cereals when possible.
- Include nuts and seeds: Despite past concerns, current evidence indicates they are safe and beneficial for those with diverticulosis.
Dietary Guidance During a Diverticulitis Flare-up
When diverticulitis occurs, the inflamed or infected pouches require special care. Diet is adjusted to reduce irritation and allow healing.
Initial Phase: Clear Liquid Diet
- Water
- Clear broths (chicken, beef, vegetable)
- Clear juices (without pulp)
- Ice pops (without fruit pieces or pulp)
- Gelatin (plain/clear)
- Tea or coffee (without milk or cream)
This phase is typically short, lasting until symptoms begin to improve and inflammation starts to resolve.
Transition to Low-Fiber Foods
Once symptoms subside, your healthcare provider may recommend moving to a low-fiber diet for several days.
- Eggs (cooked, not fried)
- Poultry: chicken or turkey (skinless, cooked without added fat)
- Fish (baked or broiled)
- White bread, white rice, or plain pasta
- Low-fiber cereals
- Canned or cooked vegetables (no skins)
- Canned or cooked fruits (no skins or seeds)
- Fruit/vegetable juices (without pulp)
- Dairy: milk, yogurt, cheese
What others are reading
The BRAT Diet for Flares
For acute symptoms, the BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—may be recommended for its bland, easily digested qualities. It is intended only for short-term use, as it lacks many nutrients needed for recovery and health. Other bland options include oatmeal, potatoes, and saltine crackers.
Reintroducing Fiber After Flare-up
After symptoms resolve, return gradually to higher-fiber foods. Monitor for tolerance and consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant dietary changes.
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Once you’ve recovered from diverticulitis, your main dietary focus should be on preventing future episodes. This involves shifting back to a fiber-rich, balanced meal plan.
Foods to Embrace for Prevention
- Lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, eggs, and low-fat dairy (helps lower risk versus red meat)
- Legumes/beans: These foods are beneficial for protein and fiber content
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: After recovery, include liberally to relieve constipation and promote gut health
- Whole grains: whole wheat bread/pasta, brown rice, quinoa, bulgur, millet, teff, amaranth
Foods to Avoid for Long-term Health
- Red and processed meats
- Fried foods
- High-fat processed foods
- Low-fiber foods—especially if consumed regularly
Diets low in fiber and high in red meat or fat are linked to higher risks of both diverticulosis and diverticulitis. It’s important to reduce these foods to maintain intestinal health and prevent recurrence.
Myths and Latest Evidence
Previous recommendations advised people with diverticulosis to avoid foods like nuts, seeds, and popcorn, due to concerns they might lodge in pouches and trigger attacks. However, current research does not support these restrictions. These foods are now considered healthy, fiber-rich choices for most people with diverticulosis unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Can Certain Foods Trigger Diverticulitis?
There is no clear evidence that any specific foods trigger diverticulitis. Dietary fiber, rather than specific foods, appears to be the most important factor for prevention. Avoiding nuts, seeds, or popcorn is no longer recommended unless you have symptoms after eating them.
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis Meal Planning Tips
- Plan meals around high-fiber foods: Make grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits central to your diet.
- Begin slowly: Introduce one fiber-rich food at a time to avoid discomfort.
- Hydrate: Water is essential for healthy digestion.
- Review labels: Choose whole foods over refined, processed options.
- Consult with your healthcare provider for individualized advice, especially during and after a flare-up.
Sample Meal Ideas for Diverticulosis Prevention
- Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with fresh berries and chopped nuts.
- Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, chickpeas, tomatoes, and pumpkin seeds.
- Snack: Apple slices with almond butter (leave the skin on apples).
- Dinner: Grilled salmon, steamed broccoli, brown rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I eat nuts, seeds, and popcorn if I have diverticulosis?
A: Yes. Recent research shows these foods do not increase diverticulitis risk and are good sources of fiber for most people. Only avoid them if you experience symptoms after eating.
Q: What foods should I avoid during a diverticulitis flare?
A: Avoid high-fiber foods and fresh fruits/vegetables during a flare. Stick to clear liquids, then low-fiber foods until symptoms improve.
Q: How much fiber should I eat if I have diverticulosis?
A: Fiber needs vary based on age and sex but range from 21–38 grams daily. See the table above for specifics.
Q: Can diet alone prevent diverticulitis?
A: While a high-fiber, balanced diet reduces risk, no diet can guarantee full prevention. Other factors like genetics and aging also play a role.
Q: Should I stop eating red meat?
A: High red meat intake has been shown to increase risk. Substitute with lean proteins like poultry, fish, eggs, and plant-based sources.
Key Takeaways for Eating With Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
- During a diverticulitis flare: follow a clear liquid or low-fiber diet, transition gradually back to regular foods.
- For diverticulosis and prevention: eat a high-fiber, balanced diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
- Avoid high red meat and low-fiber foods for long-term gut health.
- Myths about nuts, seeds, and popcorn causing problems have been debunked by good research—these foods are generally safe for most.
- Consult your doctor for individual guidance and dietary adjustments.
References
- https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/diverticulitis-diet
- https://www.usenourish.com/blog/7-foods-to-avoid-with-diverticulitis
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/diverticulitis-diet/art-20048499
- https://www.hopkinsguides.com/hopkins/view/Johns_Hopkins_ABX_Guide/540175/all/Diverticulitis
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7575828/
- https://charlestongi.com/news&events/what-should-i-eat-during-a-diverticulitis-flare-up/
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