Diverticulitis, a prevalent stomach condition that strikes thousands of people in the UK every year. Diverticulitis arises when diverticula (small sacs) develop on the lining of the colon. These become infected and inflamed. As well as medication and medical consultation, diet plays a key role in minimizing flare ups and maintaining gut well-being.

Following NHS guidance, the avoidance of some foods can alleviate discomfort, irritation and the risk of painful attacks. In this article, 7 foods to be avoided when having diverticulitis, as guided by the NHS diet recommendation, will be presented along with reasons why they trigger symptoms and what alternatives are. 

7 Foods to Avoid with Diverticulitis NHS

1. Whole Grains

Grains like brown or wholemeal rice, bread and breakfast cereals with bran are normally healthy food. But when a person has diverticulitis–particularly on a flare-up–they are hard to digest. The rough fibre can irritate the colon and make one uncomfortable with bloating or gas.

Avoid:

• High fibre irritates the colon when it is inflamed.
• It induces abdominal pain and passes off excess gas.
• When there are symptoms, hard foods are not advised.

Alternatives to the standard:

During flare-ups, resort to white rice or processed bread.

For energy, boil vegetables or mash potatoes.

After the disappearance of symptoms, increase fiber slowly

1. Red Meat

Red meat like pork, beef, lamb and lamb has been linked with higher risk for diverticulitis. High fat content makes digestion harder and challenging. Processed food worsens symptoms due to added preservatives and sodium.

Avoid:

• High fat content makes it difficult to digest.
• Increases inflammation of the colon.
• Studies have linked flare-ups with a higher risk.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Lean poultry is chicken or turkey.
• Fresh fish such as salmon or cod.
• Tofu and other plant-based proteins can be consumed in moderation.

3. Cereals and Refined Carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, sugary cereals and pastries, are of little nutritional or fibre value. They can lead to digestive issues, constipation and increase symptoms of diverticulitis.

Avoid:

• Low fibre and sugar intake harms the digestive system.
• It can slow the bowel movements, and strain.
• Most contain additives or preservatives.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Oatmeal, soft cooked well
• Plain porridge with soft fruit
• Wholemeal pasta once symptoms have eased

4. Dairy Products

The rich dairy foods like cream, cheese and full milk are difficult to digest. Diverticulitis might lead to cramps, diarrhoea, and bloating after consuming dairy.

Avoid:

• Flare ups can be caused by a diet rich in fat.
• Discomfort and bloating might ensue.
• Lactose intolerance can make digestion issues worse.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Low-fat or lactose-free milk
• Plain yogurt containing probiotics
• Alternatives to dairy milk can also be used, like almond or oat.

5. Fried Foods

Fried foods trigger digestive irritation. Fried foods, like chips, fried chicken, and battered foods, contain oil and fat, making them heavy to digest. Fried foods can trigger inflammation or discomfort in individuals suffering from diverticulitis.

Avoid:

• There is excessive unhealthy fat in this diet.
• Bloating and stomach ache may be triggered.
• Constipation and sluggish digestion are likely.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Grilled or baked chicken.
• Steamed vegetables.
• Instead of frying, cook in olive oil.

6. Legumes

Beans, lentils and chickpeas are good for most people but can make diverticulitis worse. Legumes are high in fibre, which will cause too much gas and pressure on the colon.

Avoid:

• High fibre will inflame diverticula.
• Will cause bloating and cramping.
• Frequently cause flare-ups when periods of sensitivity are encountered.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Small quantities of lentil soup, cooked slowly.
• Use peeled or mashed beans sparingly.
• Fish or eggs are rich in protein.

7. Spicy Foods

Hot chillies, curries, and hot sauces may irritate your digestive tract. Spicy food is likely to worsen symptoms of diverticulitis such as cramps in the abdomen, diarrhea, and pain.

Avoid:

• It irritates the lining of the colon.
• It causes bloating and discomfort and acidity.
• Increased flare-ups.

Alternatives to the standard:

• Mild herbs like parsley, basil or oregano.
• Turmeric and ginger to give a mild flavor
• Garlic powder can be used when chili powder is not hot.

What to Eat Instead (NHS-Friendly Alternatives)

It is vital to have healthy and safe food substitutes. The 7 Foods to Avoid with Diverticulitis NHS recommends you incorporate foods that are low in fibre, soft, and gentle on the gut, during flare-ups. After the symptoms disappear, fibre can be slowly included to maintain long-term colon health.

Safe Food Choices Include

• Cooked Vegetables:Courgettes and carrots can be more easily absorbed if they are steamed, boiled or even roasted.
• Low-Fibre Fruits: Bananas and melons are low in fibre but rich in vitamin C.
• Lean Proteins:  White eggs, skinless poultry, white fish and turkey are all convenient protein sources.
• Simple Carbohydrates:White pasta and white rice may be controlled during flare-ups.
• Hydrating Fluids:  Clear soups, herbal teas and water can also prevent constipation.

Slowly re-introducing fiber once the inflammation has ceased prevents constipation. It also helps regular bowel movements. Balance and moderation are of the essence.

Lifestyle and Self-Care Tips

Diverticulitis management is not all about diet. Lifestyle modifications are also essential. The NHS points to a variety of practices leading to long-term digestive health:

• Stay Hydrated – Drinking six to eight glasses of water daily can help avoid constipation. It also lowers the amount of pressure your colon has to withstand.
• Exercise Regularly – Walking, yoga or cycling are all mild exercises that can help to maintain regular bowel movements.
• Eat Small Meals –You can take 5 to 6 small meals as opposed to 3 large meals. This will also reduce the amount of food your stomach has to process.
• Manage Stress –  Stress can exacerbate symptoms of the gut, therefore practices such as deep breathing or journaling and meditation can prove helpful.
• Seek Professional Advice – Before making major changes to the diet, visit your GP or chemist. This is especially important if you suspect the symptoms are getting worse.

Conclusion

Avoiding trigger foods and cautious dietary choice will control diverticulitis more effectively. During episodes, special attention needs to be given to keeping the 7 Foods to Avoid with Diverticulitis NHS. They are wholegrains, red and processed meat, dairy, fried, legumes and spicy food.

You can facilitate digestion by replacing them with less strong foods like cooked vegetables, soft fruits, plain starches, and lean meat. Oldfield Pharmacy can provide personalized advice and trustworthy healthcare products.