Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis indicates the presence of diverticula. Diverticula are small pouches that form in the sigmoid colon (the area before the anus). These pouches can get inflamed when faeces gets stuck inside them. This inflammation is called Diverticulitis. This condition is associated with a diet that does not contain sufficient fibre.
Fibre
The correct kind of fibre in the diet is important to prevent irritation in the colon and to ensure soft stool formation. Water-holding fibres are the best. You find them in oats, soya and wheat bran. Daily consumption of water holding fibres will prevent inflammation.
Probiotic bacteria
Healthy intestinal bacteria also play an important role in the management of diverticular disease. These are called probiotic bacteria. The two main groups are Lactobacillus (living in the small intestines) and Bifidobacterium (residing in the large intestine or colon)
When these bacteria are present in the correct balance, they control intestinal flora and contribute not only to healthy digestion, but also to the persons overall wellbeing. With the correct flora, inflammation of the diverticula can be prevented. These Probiotic bacteria can best be found in supplements ie. Intestiflora or Combiforte'
Nutritional intervention
- Increase water-holding fibre in your diet.
- Increase health bacteria in your digestive tract, to prevent inflammation.
- Consume enough fluid ie. 6-10 glasses per day.
- Reduce fat intake.
