Diverticulitis is a condition that afflicts the large intestine. A low residue diet is often prescribed as a form of treatment for this condition. In this following article, we will learn a little something more about this form of diet.
Diverticulitis is a condition that usually affects the large intestine and is characterized by the inflammation and infection of one or more diverticula (tiny pouches found in the digestive system) The formation of this condition can lead to several symptoms like constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea and irregularity in the bowel movements. Luckily though, bringing about a change in ones diet and switching over to a low residue diet is known to bring this condition under control and lead to relief. This form of diet, also known as low fiber diet is known to help deal with the inflammation and bring the infection into check. Which is why a low residue diet is often recommended.
It is generally recommended that an ideal diet for diverticulitis should have a low content of fiber. This allows for the inflammation and infection to heal faster and therefore, allows for normalizing of the condition.
Food Choices for Diverticulitis
There are certain foods, the intake of which is highly recommended when it comes to this condition. Luckily, there are several choices that can be made from the basic food groups and that is what gives it a wide range to choose from. Let us get you the kind of foods that you can consume and those that you need to avoid in the following section.
Fruits
There are several fruits that can be consumed as a part of the low residue diet. These include – apples, mangoes, papayas, pears, apricots, bananas, watermelon, cantaloupe, grapes, peaches, apricots and plums. There are certain other fruits that need to be avoided as well. These include – Pineapples (in any form), berries of any kind, all dried fruits, fruits that have seeds in them, prunes and fresh figs. It is very, very important to avoid fruits that have seeds in them.
Vegetables
The objective is to go in for those vegetables that have a low fiber content. These include – Beet roots, carrots, cucumber, eggplants, mushrooms, lettuce, sprouts, potatoes (without the skin), onion, pumpkins, zucchini, asparagus and spinach. Make sure to keep in mind that these vegetables which can be cooked and consumed need to be done like so, instead of consuming them in the raw form. Avoid vegetables that fall under the Cruciferous family of vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels, cabbage, sprouts and kale.
Grains
As far as grains are concerned, one can have refined forms of white breads like muffins, buns, bagels, noodles, pastas, cornflakes, white rice, cakes, cookies, sugar, candy and plain cereals. These are some of the grain forms that are considered safe for consumption. Do not have any products that have whole wheat and grains.
Dairy
Of the dairy products that you can consume, cottage cheese, yogurt, milk, puddings and creamy soups are great options to be looking into. Take special care to avoid any such milk products that have seeds, nuts or fruits and vegetables in them. Similarly, consume goat milk in place of cow’s milk.
Protein
Meats that contain protein are several, but what you choose from these is what counts. The golden rule that you should follow is that the meats have to be tender and chewy, not hard or tough. Include things like fish, poultry, eggs and peanut butter. What are the other examples of foods to avoid with diverticulitis? Nuts, tofu, peas, beans, lentils, crunchy peanut butter, popcorn and deli meats.
Oils
One can consume unrefined coconut oil, organic butter, extra virgin olive oil or flax oil, mayonnaise, whipped cream, margarine and smooth sauces as a part of this diet. But one must avoid pickles, commercial butters and vegetable oils.
Avoid any artificial sweeteners and anything that has colors and added preservatives or flavors to it. Make it a point to avoid anything that is spicy like hot sauce as well as caffeine, coconut and chocolates.
The condition needs a special diet to be followed for its speedy recovery and that is why there is a need to have a good diet plan and schedule in place. Make sure that you contact your doctor and get a proper treatment plan in place.
