Suggested Diverticulosis Diet | What Foods to Avoid with Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis occurs when pockets in the wall of the intestine, called diverticula, become inflamed or infected. Fortunately, sufferers can find relief by following a diverticulitis diet.
A low-residue diet is recommended during the flare-up periods of diverticulitis to decrease bowel volume so that the infection can heal. An intake of less than 10 grams of fiber per day is generally considered a low residue diverticulitis diet. If you have been on a low-residue diet for an extended period of time, your doctor may recommend a daily multi-vitamin/mineral supplement. Here's a brief menu for diverticulitis:
Grain Products:
- enriched refined white bread, buns, bagels, english muffins
- plain cereals e.g. Cheerios, Cornflakes, Cream of Wheat, Rice Krispies, Special K
- arrowroot cookies, tea biscuits, soda crackers, plain melba toast
- white rice, refined pasta and noodles
- avoid whole grains
Fruits:
- fruit juices except prune juice
- applesauce, apricots, banana (1/2), cantaloupe, canned fruit cocktail, grapes, honeydew melon, peaches, watermelon
- avoid raw and dried fruits, raisins and berries.
Vegetables:
- vegetable juices
- potatoes (no skin)
- alfalfa sprouts, beets, green/yellow beans, carrots, celery, cucumber, eggplant, lettuce, mushrooms, green/red peppers, potatoes (peeled), squash, zucchini
- avoid vegetables from the cruciferous family such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, Swiss chard etc
Meat and Protein Choice:
- well-cooked, tender meat, fish and eggs
- avoid beans and lentils
- Avoid all nuts and seeds, as well as foods that may contain seeds (such as yogurt)
Dairy:
- as directed by your healthcare providers
When symptoms of diverticulitis improve, you may ease off of the diverticulitis diet and gradually add more fiber back into your diet. A high-fiber diet is very important in preventing future diverticulitis attacks. As you increase your fiber intake, increase your fluid intake as well.
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