The large intestine or the colon is a long tubular structure that is responsible for storing and removing waste matter from the body. Due to advancing age, the pressure inside the large intestine rises and areas of tissue are pushed outwards. These bulging sacs of tissue are referred to as diverticula. The occurrence of diverticula constitutes a condition known as diverticulosis. When infection occurs in a diverticulum, it can rupture and bleed. This condition is called diverticulitis. The causes of diverticulosis include low intake of fiber, chronic constipation and age.
Symptoms For diverticulosis
Individuals with diverticulosis may or may not experience any symptoms. When there are no symptoms, the condition is known as asymptomatic diverticulosis, while the presence of symptoms is referred to as symptomatic diverticulosis. Symptomatic diverticulosis can be of three types, painful diverticulosis, inflammatory diverticulitis and bleeding diverticulosis. Painful diverticulosis results in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating and alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea. Inflammatory diverticulitis leads to symptoms such as abdominal swelling, pain, vomiting and fever. Bleeding diverticulosis contributes to symptoms such as cramps and presence of blood clots in the stool. When blood loss occurs, the individual may also experience excessive thirst, dizziness and fainting. Diet for diverticulosis is very important in alleviating the symptoms of the condition. Following a proper diet for diverticulosis helps to relieve pain and discomfort and also prevents further aggravation of symptoms.
Diet Care For Diverticulosis
Care for diverticulosis involves consuming a diet that is rich in fiber. Your diet for diverticulosis would therefore include whole grains, legumes and fruits. These foods must be present in the daily diet. A good way to incorporate fiber-rich foods in the diet is to replace refined foods with whole foods. Fruits must be eaten along with the seeds and the skin as these contain maximum fiber. It is also a good idea to include lots of vegetables in meals and to consume plenty of fluids in your diet for diverticulosis. There are certain foods which can worsen the symptoms of diverticulosis and hence must be avoided. Coconut, nuts, corn and strawberries are some of the foods that should not be part of your diet for diverticulosis. Some foods such as squash and tomatoes are known to aggravate the condition when consumed raw. It is also essential to maintain healthy body weight and to perform regular exercise. Those with diverticulosis must avoid alcohol consumption and smoking as it can cause irritation to the gastric membranes. In severe cases, medication and surgical procedures may become necessary. Surgery is usually required to remove the diverticula.