Protein pill could help relieve diverticulitis

a natUral supplement is being tested as a treatment for diverticulitis, a painful condition where small pockets that form in the wall of the intestine become inflamed.

Up to half of those aged over 60 have the condition. now scientists at the University of California in the U.s. are investigating a supplement of the amino acid l-glutamine, which has notable antiinflammatory properties, as a possible treatment.

In the new trial, people with diverticulitis are being given a powdered form of the supplement to take twice daily for 48 weeks.

the amino acid is found naturally in foods such as chicken, fish and beans.