Diverticulitis Diet: Foods to Eat And Foods to Avoid

Diverticulitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches, known as diverticula, which can form in the intestinal walls—a condition referred to as diverticulosis. Though the initial presence of diverticula is typically benign, it can lead to diverticitis, which ranges in severity from minor infections or abscesses to more serious complications such as bowel perforations. Management of the condition may include dietary adjustments, as specific foods can help improve symptoms or should be avoided during flare-ups to prevent aggravation of the condition. For those interested in maintaining optimal digestive health, we invite you to subscribe to our exclusive diet and nutrition newsletter for insights and updates directly to your inbox.

Good or Bad: High Fiber Foods

According to Healthline, incorporating foods high in fiber could potentially ameliorate diverticulitis symptoms and serve as a preventative measure. This assertion is supported by a 2017 study review. However, Healthline also advises that individuals experiencing a flare-up of diverticulitis may need to moderate their fiber consumption, as not all patients respond well to high fiber intake under these circumstances. The rationale is that fiber increases stool bulk and can lead to heightened colon contractions, which might exacerbate symptoms. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding dietary adjustments during such episodes.

Good: Low-Fiber Foods

It is essential to recognize the role of dietary fiber in maintaining overall health, yet during episodes of diverticulitis-related discomfort, a low fiber diet is advisable, as indicated by Healthline. Suitable food choices during such flare-ups encompass white rice, pasta, refined fruit products, carefully cooked fish or eggs, peeled potatoes, and juices devoid of pulp. Conversely, one should steer clear of high-fiber foods like beans, legumes, whole grains, and uncooked fruits or vegetables when experiencing aggravated symptoms.

Bad: Fruit/Vegetable Skins

According to Reader's Digest, individuals experiencing a diverticulitis flare-up and adhering to a low-fiber diet should consider peeling fruits and vegetables to reduce fiber intake. They recommend opting for canned or cooked produce, which typically has a lower fiber content compared to its raw counterparts. Additionally, it's advisable to steer clear of foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes—including snow peas—and whole grains to align with the dietary restrictions of this condition.

Bad: FODMAP Foods

FODMAPs are a group of carbohydrates that are highly fermentable and found in various foods, such as apples, pears, plums, dairy products, fermented goods, beans, cabbage, onions, and garlic. According to Healthline, these include oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. Research suggests that a diet low in FODMAPs may provide relief for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and may also be beneficial during a diverticulitis flare-up.

Good: Clear Liquids

When managing diverticulitis, a clear liquid diet is often recommended to alleviate discomfort by minimizing digestive workload. Reader's Digest highlights that this dietary approach aims to lessen stool volume and inflammation. Acceptable clear liquid options include clear broths, water, herbal teas, apple juice, and plain gelatin.

Good: Full Liquid Diet

Reader's Digest highlights that the next phase of the diverticulitis diet typically begins after several days on a clear liquid regimen, expanding dietary options. In addition to clear liquid diet items, this stage incorporates milk, pudding, thickened soures, and cooked cereals for added variety. Smooth ice cream, butter, and frozen yogurt may also be permissible. Furthermore, liquid nutritional supplements can be considered, but should only be included following the advice of a dietitian and with a doctor's approval.

Good: Fermented Foods

EveryDay Health asserts that incorporating foods with "active cultures" into one's diet may benefit individuals with diverticulosis and diverticulitis, and could potentially aid in prevention. Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and kefir are recommended for promoting improved digestion and mitigating constipation often linked with diverticulosis. Furthermore, these foods may bolster the immune system and provide additional health advantages, including a reduced risk of conditions like diabetes.

Good or Bad: Nuts, Seeds, Popcorn

According to Healthline, historical medical advice typically recommended that patients with diverticular conditions abstain from consuming nuts, seeds, and popcorn due to concerns that small particles from these foods could become trapped in intestinal pouches, potentially leading to infection. However, contemporary medical perspectives are evolving away from this conservative dietary restriction. Recent studies have not demonstrated a significant correlation between the intake of these foods and the exacerbation of diverticulitis symptoms, suggesting that such caution may no longer be necessary.

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Bad: A ‘Western’ Diet

According to Healthline, the prevalent North American diet, characterized by elevated levels of fat and sugar coupled with insufficient fiber, may be contributing to the increased incidence of diverticulitis. Studies indicate that by limiting the intake of specific foods such as red meat, refined grains, full-fat dairy, and fried foods, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of developing diverticulosis or mitigate the symptoms associated with diverticulitis.

Good: Avoiding Future Flare-Ups

Reader's Digest suggests that, after a period of illness and upon consultation with your healthcare providers, you may gradually reintroduce fiber into your diet. Once you receive medical guidance and clearance, it's recommended to steadily increase your fiber consumption toward the daily recommended intake of 25 to 35 grams. Adhering to a high-fiber diet when asymptomatic can aid in preventing future health complications. However, caution is advised regarding the potential adverse effects of high fiber during active symptoms. Additionally, it is beneficial to engage in regular physical activity and maintain proper hydration, ideally drinking up to 12 glasses of water per day.

Does Garlic Salt Have Any Health Benefits?

Crafting garlic bread for tonight's dinner? Consider using fresh garlic, but bear in mind it can be somewhat cumbersome to chop and messy to handle. An easy alternative is granulated garlic, favored by many culinary experts for its convenience. Some prefer to use garlic salt to add an extra zing to the flavor. Nevertheless, it's important to note that garlic salt and granulated garlic are not interchangeable, as garlic salt combines dried ground garlic with salt, altering both taste and sodium content.

1. Garlic Salt vs. Garlic Powder

Please note that garlic powder and garlic salt should not be confused as interchangeable spices. Garlic powder is crafted from dehydrated fresh garlic, while garlic salt is a seasoned salt blend, consisting primarily of table salt mixed at a ratio of three to one with dried ground garlic, and often includes an anti-caking agent like calcium silicate to maintain its free-flowing quality. Hence, garlic salt contains a significant amount of salt and should be used to impart both a salty flavor and a hint of garlic to dishes such as bread, sauces, and various side dishes.

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2. Garlic Salt Medicinally

Garlic salt, which primarily consists of table salt, should be utilized in moderation. The garlic component has a longstanding history of medicinal use, particularly for bolstering the immune system. Garlic, in both its fresh and dried forms, is widely acknowledged for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Research conducted by Harvard Medical School supports the ability of garlic to combat the common cold and numerous minor infections, owing to its innate immune-enhancing properties.

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3. Garlic to Prevent Cancer

Research conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that incorporating garlic—whether fresh, powdered, or as garlic salt—into one's diet may contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic and colon cancers. This correlation is particularly pertinent for individuals with a family history of these diseases, underlining the potential benefits of garlic supplementation for cancer risk reduction.

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4. Garlic Helps Ward Off Hypertension

Studies have consistently shown that incorporating garlic into one's diet can be beneficial for cardiovascular health, with evidence suggesting a correlation between garlic consumption and reduced incidences of hypertension as well as favorable cholesterol levels. Researchers at Oregon State University have identified garlic's ability to function as a vasodilator, a property that contributes to the lowering of blood pressure and alleviates strain on both the heart and circulatory system. This effect has been observed with various forms of garlic, including garlic salt.

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5. Garlic for Better Cholesterol

Garlic, an active component in garlic salt, has the potential to reduce harmful LDL cholesterol levels, thus minimizing the risk of arterial constriction, while simultaneously promoting the increase of protective HDL cholesterol, aiding in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, given the predominant salt content in garlic worth noting, it is advisable to use this condiment sparingly to maintain a healthy diet. To enhance your garlic intake while minimizing salt consumption, consider opting for fresh garlic or garlic powder as preferable alternatives.

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Foods to Avoid With Vertigo Symptoms

Vertigo can be a profoundly debilitating condition, characterized by symptoms that can disrupt daily life and induce anxiety due to their unpredictable nature. However, individuals facing vertigo are not without options for managing their condition. There are effective treatments, specific medications, and dietary considerations that can mitigate symptoms and reduce the frequency of episodes. In this article, we will explore dietary adjustments, specifically focusing on foods that those experiencing vertigo may benefit from avoiding to better manage their condition.

What Is Vertigo?

Our vestibular system, an intricate network connecting the inner ear and the brain, is essential for maintaining balance. Whether rising from bed or navigating a walk, this system is pivotal in stabilizing our posture. However, certain injuries or medical conditions can impair the functionality of the vestibular system, potentially resulting in balance disorders or experiencing vertigo. It is critical to understand and address any disruptions to ensure our well-being and safety.

Vertigo Causes

Vertigo is not a medical condition per se, but rather a symptom associated with approximately 40 different conditions and diseases affecting the inner ear. These may encompass a range of issues, such as infections, inflammations, or increased pressure within the inner ear. The causes of vertigo are commonly classified into two primary types: peripheral and central vertigo. Peripheral vertigo, which accounts for the vast majority of cases, is attributed to disturbances in the inner ear function. Central vertigo, although less common, is caused by complications in the brain or brainstem, which may include tumors, stroke, adverse reactions to medications, or head and neck injuries.

Vertigo Symptoms

Vertigo episodes can vary in duration from a few brief moments to several hours. Individuals typically experience short instances of dizziness, which can be accompanied by nausea, auditory challenges, concentration issues, accelerated heartbeat, headaches, and binocular vision disturbances. Balance impairments are also prevalent, often characterized by sensations of unilateral pulling, or feelings of rotation, sway, or tilt. With an improved comprehension of vertigo's etiology and its indicative symptoms, it is prudent to consider dietary adjustments that may mitigate these experiences.

AVOID: Caffeine

Emerging research continues to enhance our understanding of the connection between dietary habits and vertigo symptomatology. Evidence suggests that caffeine consumption has a propensity to exacerbate auditory symptoms, specifically causing an intensified ringing in the ears, and can aggravate the manifestations of Meniere’s disease. Consequently, individuals experiencing vertigo are advised to abstain from caffeine-rich products like coffee, tea, and energy drinks to mitigate these adverse effects.

AVOID: Salt

Salt is an essential component of the human diet, influencing a host of critical biological processes, including the regulation of fluid balance within the body. Consequently, if vertigo is diagnosed and identified to be caused by excess fluid accumulation in the inner ear, it is advisable to moderate salt intake to help alleviate this condition.

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AVOID: Alcohol

Reducing or abstaining from alcohol consumption has been demonstrated to reduce both the severity and the occurrence of vertigo symptoms. Moreover, excessive alcohol use can directly induce vertigo due to its rapid absorption into the inner ear's fluid, where it can remain even after being metabolized from the bloodstream and brain. This serves as yet another health incentive to consider limiting or discontinuing alcohol intake.

AVOID: Sugar

Eliminating high-sugar items such as table sugar, maple syrup, sodas, and pastries from your pantry is advisable for maintaining equilibrium and avoiding vertigo episodes. High sugar intake can cause significant changes in ear fluid levels, potentially triggering these symptoms. Moreover, it is prudent to moderate sugar consumption, as excessive amounts contribute to dental decay, weight gain, energy deficiencies, and other health concerns. Familiar as it may sound, reducing sugar is a beneficial health strategy.

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AVOID: Tyramine

Tyramine, an amino acid inherent to the human body, plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure. It is found in a variety of foods often considered to be indulgent, such as robust aged cheeses, processed meats, soybeans, an array of fermented items, and various sauces and dried fruits. While tyramine is commonly ingested without issue, it may induce adverse reactions in some individuals, including migraines, nausea, dizziness, and episodes of vertigo. If you experience such symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider regarding the potential need to moderate tyramine intake. Should a reduced tyramine diet be recommended, recognizing the foods listed previously is essential in managing consumption effectively.

AVOID: Nicotine

Nicotine consumption, through any means such as smoking, vaping, or chewing, has been medically proven to cause constriction of blood vessels, exacerbating vestibular disorders that often manifest symptoms like vertigo. Furthermore, nicotine's effect on cerebral blood flow can hinder recovery from vertigo-related symptoms. It is therefore advisable for individuals suffering from these conditions to cease nicotine use to facilitate better management and recovery from vestibular symptoms. If cessation has not been achieved yet, continuing efforts to quit is strongly recommended.

AVOID: Inflammation

Many individuals find fried foods, bread, pastries, red meat, margarine, and processed products enjoyable; they are widespread in many diets. However, it is vital to recognize that excessive intake of these items is associated with increased inflammation in the body. While inflammation can pose health concerns for everyone, it's particularly challenging for individuals managing vertigo. Consuming foods that exacerbate inflammation may intensify vertigo symptoms and prolong recovery times. It is advisable to cook meals at home, minimize consumption of pre-packaged foods, and carefully track any changes in symptoms to mitigate these risks effectively.

What You Should Eat

It is essential to complement dietary restrictions with positive guidance on suitable food choices for individuals aiming to alleviate vertigo symptoms. Healthcare professionals advise incorporating foods high in potassium, antioxidants, vitamins B and C, magnesium, and zinc into the diet, as these nutrients can contribute to symptom relief. Additionally, maintaining hydration is crucial; therefore, regular water intake throughout the day is strongly recommended.

The Takeaway

Coping with vertigo presents distinct challenges; however, the insights shared herein empower you to effectively manage your symptoms. It is crucial to understand that dietary modifications, while beneficial, do not supplant the need for professional treatment or pharmaceutical intervention. Relying solely on generic online nutritional guidance is inadvisable—consult your healthcare provider to tailor a comprehensive and personalized strategy for your condition.