Diverticulosis is a condition that affects the large intestine. The condition is characterized by the formation of small sacs, or pouches, in the lining of the intestine. These pouches can become inflamed or infected, and may bleed.
The most common symptom of diverticulosis is abdominal pain. Other symptoms include constipation, diarrhea, and bleeding from the rectum.
Diverticulosis is most common in people over the age of 50. The condition is more common in men than women. African Americans are also at increased risk for developing diverticulosis.
There is no cure for diverticulosis. However, the condition can be managed with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Certain foods should be avoided if you have diverticulosis. therefore, we gathered a list of 10 diverticulosis foods to avoid.
1. Seeds
Seeds are a common culprit in causing diverticulitis flare-ups. The tiny seeds can get lodged in the pouches and cause inflammation. Avoid eating foods that contain seeds, such as berries, tomatoes, and cucumbers. If you can’t avoid seeds altogether, make sure to remove them before eating.
2. Popcorn
Like seeds, popcorn can also get stuck in the diverticula and cause inflammation. If you love popcorn, opt for air-popped popcorn instead of the kind that comes in a bag. This will help reduce your risk of a flare-up. Open the next pages
3. Nuts
Nuts are another food to avoid if you have diverticulosis. Like seeds, the small size of nuts can cause them to get stuck in the pouches. This can lead to inflammation and pain. Avoid eating foods that contain nuts, such as peanut butter and granola. If you can’t avoid nuts altogether, make sure to remove them before eating.
4. Corn
Corn is a common ingredient in many processed foods. Unfortunately, corn can also be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating foods that contain corn, such as chips, cereal, and bread.
5. Beans
Beans are a healthy food choice for most people. However, beans can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating foods that contain beans, such as chili and burritos.
6. Cabbage
Cabbage is a healthy vegetable that is often recommended for those with diverticulosis. However, cabbage can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for some people. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating foods that contain cabbage, such as coleslaw and sauerkraut.
7. Dairy
Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating dairy products.
8. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, such as Splenda and Equal, can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating foods that contain artificial sweeteners.
9. Alcohol
Alcohol can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid drinking alcohol.
10. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort for those with diverticulosis. If you have diverticulosis, avoid eating spicy foods.
If you have diverticulosis, it’s important to avoid foods that can be difficult to digest. By avoiding these foods, you can help reduce your risk of a flare-up.