Diverticulitis Diet

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.

Low Residue Diet 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.