Diet rich in fiber, low in processed foods can hold off diverticulosis

What you should know

Diverticulosis is a growing problem. As our lifespan lengthens, more and more people over 40 develop small pouches (diverticula) in the lining of their intestines. These pouches usually are found in the large intestine (colon). Men and women can have diverticula without symptoms. Pouches might be discovered during a colonoscopy used for colon cancer screening. Adults might also have periodic bloating or constipation but not extreme pain.

When the diverticula become inflamed or infected, the people with the disease have an attack of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis can cause pain, a fever, cramping, bloating, gas and constipation. Some people find blood in their stools.

Experts theorize that the narrow openings of the pouches become inflamed when they trap feces. The pouches themselves might also become weak and irritated, which could lead to infection.

Specialists think there are several causes of diverticulosis. The strongest theory is that many people’s diets and habits don’t keep things moving regularly through their colons. This causes too much pressure to build in the intestines. The pressure causes the pouches to pop out in weak spots in the walls of their colons. Once the pouches are formed, they can continue to be an occasional cause of distress from gas, constipation and inflammation.

Pressure from constipation or alternating constipation and diarrhea can be caused by eating too many processed foods. Inadequate exercise and lots of sitting can also be causes. Putting off responses to bowel movements can also increase pressure in the colon. Some experts think smoking, stress, inadequate fluids, and the lack of favorable bacteria in the colon could also be sources of abdominal pressure.

Diverticulosis is rare in less developed nations where people eat high-fiber diets with less processed food.

Abdominal pressure and constipation can be symptoms of other diseases. Obesity and diabetes can change bowel habits. Constipation is also a symptom of low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism).

Some narcotics, hypertension drugs and medications with iron can slow down stool movements. Constipation can also result from a blockage caused by scar tissue, a tumor, a polyp, or a constriction of the intestine due to a hernia.

When a diverticulitis attack occurs, it is wise to see a doctor. The doctor is likely to ask about your bowel habits, diet and current prescriptions. Your provider could check for signs of blood. A blood test is usually done. He or she might order an abdominal ultrasound, X-rays, or a CT scan. The doctor might also prescribe a pain reliever and an antibiotic if there is an infection.

To treat diverticulitis, your care provider is likely to recommend a high-fiber diet. You might be shown which foods are preferred. Your provider might also suggest gradual use of a fiber product such as Metamucil or Citrucel.

Surgery is rarely needed. However, surgery might be needed for a complication such as an intestinal obstruction or the attachment of the colon to another organ such as the bladder.

What you should do

Prevent diverticula while you are younger. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of water.

Move regularly throughout your day. Moving your legs moves your abdomen and muscles around your colon. Exercise will promote better bowel function. Take the stairs. Get away from the computer. Get off the couch. Walk.

Respond to bowel urges. Let the pressure out of your colon. Stopping a bowel movement can cause stools to backup and enlarge in your colon.

Regardless of your age, get both water-soluble and insoluble fiber in your meals. Soluble fiber like oat bran and psyllium are digested by bacteria in your colon. Insoluble fiber, like wheat bran and fruit peelings, adds bulk to your stools. Many people find that high-fiber cereals and whole grain breads are helpful foods to prevent constipation.

If you have diverticulosis, gradually add fiber with water to your diet to prevent excess gas. Keep a food diary to identify foods that might cause symptoms.

If extreme pain or fever occurs, see your care provider promptly. Untreated diverticulitis complications can be very harmful. Follow your provider’s instructions. Take medications in the amounts and for the time prescribed. Comfort is often possible with bed rest, a heating pad on your abdomen, and a fluid diet for several days.

For more information

Visit digestive.niddk.nih. gov/ddiseases/pubs/ diverticulosis/ and ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pubmedhealth/pmh0001303/.

Better Health: Take Charge! is provided by the Healthy Memphis Common Table: healthymemphis.org. This article supports the care and advice of your doctor.