Diverticulosis is characterized by the formation of pockets in the lining of the large intestine.
Diverticulitis is the acute stage of diverticulosis when the pockets are infected and inflamed.
With the presence of Diverticulosis, it is best to follow a high fiber diet. This keeps pressure on the wall of the large intestine and prevents the accumulation of excess bacteria. Increase fiber gradually in your diet, as a sudden increase may cause increased formation of gas. If Diverticulitis does occur, it is best to switch to a low fiber diet during the acute infection period. After the infection is gone, gradually switch back to a high fiber diet.
RECOMMENDED FOODS FOR DIVERTICULOSIS
| Food Group | Amount to Consume Daily | High Fiber Foods |
| Fresh Fruit | 2 or more servings | Apples (with skin), oranges, grapefruits, bananas, peaches, pears, plums, cherries, apricots and grapes |
| Breads and Cereal | 4 or more servings | Whole grain bread (100% whole wheat, bran, or pumpernickel), dry or cooked cereals (made from whole wheat, bran, oats, unprocessed wheat bran or oat bran), whole grain crackers, bran muffins, brown rice |
| Vegetables | 2 or more servings | Broccoli, brussels sprouts, peas, cabbage, carrots, celery, green beans, potatoes, zucchini, tomatoes (without seeds), onions and baked beans Avoid Popcorn! |
| Food Group | Amount to Consume Daily | Low Fiber Foods |
| Fresh Fruit | 2 or more servings | Fruit juice, fruit drinks pureed fruit, cooked fruit (without skin) |
| Breads and Cereal | 4 or more servings | White bread, french bread, farina, cream of wheat or rice, melba toast, saltines, corn flakes, rice krispies, puffed rice, white rice and pasta |
| Vegetables | 2 or more servings | Vegetable juice, lettuce, winter squash, tomato sauce, mashed or cooked vegetables or potato |
RECOMMENDED FOODS FOR DIVERTICULITIS
| Food Group | Amount to Consume Daily | Low Fiber Foods |
| Fresh Fruit | 2 or more servings | Fruit juice, fruit drinks pureed fruit, cooked fruit (without skin) |
| Breads and Cereal | 4 or more servings | White bread, french bread, farina, cream of wheat or rice, melba toast, saltines, corn flakes, rice krispies, puffed rice, white rice and pasta |
| Vegetables | 2 or more servings | Vegetable juice, lettuce, winter squash, tomato sauce, mashed or cooked vegetables or potato |
| Miscellaneous | All dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, broth, cream soup |
