Zauzy

Diverticulitis is a common medical condition that affects the digestive tract. It is believed to be caused by increased pressure in the colon as well as the large intestine when waste material excreted as the byproduct of digestion is unable to efficiently be moved along the tract. The result is friction which creates small pockets or folds called "Diverticula". Much like the appendix, when the diverticula become enlarged and trap decomposing waste, inflammation and chronic infection can occur resulting in symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, indigestion and in serious instances light to heavy rectal bleeding. A modified diverticulitis diet is the most common treatment modality.
Treating Diverticulitis
The treatment for diverticulitis can vary depending on the degree of inflammation or infection of the diverticula and the length of the symptoms. The first choice is to modify the patient's diet and offer the colon and digestive system to rest by a simplified bland diet of easily digested foods and water soluble fibers. Medical research has shown the "low residue" diverticulitis diet as highly effective in not only managing disruptive and painful symptoms (called attacks) but also in improving the overall health of the colon and large intestine. In very serious cases invasive surgery is required.
Dietary Choices
The diverticulitis diet includes low acidic foods such as fruits and vegetables, tender meats such as chicken, eggs and fish. Foods to avoid include vegetables such as Swiss chard, broccoli or corn are not recommended as they contain a non-soluble exterior skin which is exceedingly difficult for the human digestive system to break down. Vegetables and fruits (as well as other foods) which contain hard exteriors tend to remain inside the digestive tract and have an increased risk of becoming compounded inside a diverticula, leading to infection in some cases. Whole grains are never recommended as part of the diverticulitis diet but soluble fibers are an encouraged part of the diverticulitis diet.
The Role of Water in Diverticulitis
The most effective agent in a diverticulitis diet remains clear water. Doctors recommend that at least 1.5 liters of water per day for a patient with diverticulitis. Water enters into the digestive system and assists by propelling waste through. It also enlarges bulk fiber and swells the material allowing the digestive contractions to push waste out. Patients are also encouraged to avoid a dehydrating high sodium diet. Snack foods, processed foods and carbonated drinks are all sources which contain harmfully high levels of sodium should be avoided.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5732731