Skip to main content

Diverticular Disease Diet

Diverticulosis occurs when small pouches, known as diverticula, form in the walls of the large intestine or colon. In general, patients with diverticulosis should follow a high-fiber diet to help prevent constipation, which felt to be one of the major causes of diverticulosis.

Diverticulitis occurs when those pouches, or diverticula, become infected or inflamed. 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 15 grams of fiber per day is generally considered a low residue 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.

There are several ways to help prevent and manage diverticular disease. Follow a high fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids; this has been shown to decrease the pressure in your colon, help soften stools and promote regular bowel habits.

Download Diet