Diverticulitis: What Foods Should You Avoid?

Diverticulitis: What to Eat and What Diet to Follow?

Scientific studies indicate that a high-fibre diet can help prevent the progression of diverticulosis (the presence of diverticula without symptoms) into a symptomatic form or diverticulitis (inflammation). This recommendation therefore remains relevant during the prevention phase, as fibre promotes healthy bowel movements and reduces pressure in the colon.

However, after an episode of acute diverticulitis, the benefit of quickly resuming a high-fibre diet to prevent recurrence remains a subject of debate. The resumption should be gradual and tailored to individual tolerance, under medical supervision.

Here are the highest-fibre foods to prioritise in your diet and meal plans:

1. Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans and peas are excellent sources of fibre.

2. Whole grains: Whole-grain products such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oats and quinoa are high in fibre.

3. Fresh fruits: Fruits, especially pears, apples, berries, oranges and plums, are naturally high in fibre.

4. Green vegetables: Spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, green peas and green beans are excellent sources of fibre.

5. Dried fruits: Figs, dates, prunes and dried apricots are high in fibre.

6. Seeds: Chia seeds, flaxseed, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds are high-fibre options.

7. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, cashews and pistachios also provide fibre.

8. Root vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes and beetroot are fibre-rich root vegetables.

In cases of diverticulitis, it is also recommended to avoid strong spices, as they can irritate the already inflamed intestinal lining and worsen digestive symptoms such as pain, cramps or diarrhoea. Hot spices (chilli peppers, excessive black pepper, very strong curry, etc.) can exacerbate local inflammation and disrupt digestive balance, which slows down healing. During acute phases, it is best to opt for a mild, non-spicy and easily digestible diet, gradually reintroducing stronger seasonings once the inflammatory phase has passed and depending on individual tolerance.

Diverticulitis and diet: the myths

It was long believed that the seeds of certain fruits (tomatoes, peppers, kiwis, raspberries, strawberries) and nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, peanuts), as well as corn, wheat, or popcorn, could accumulate in the diverticula and trigger inflammation, known as diverticulitis. Current data no longer supports their systematic exclusion in people with diverticulosis. They can therefore be eaten, unless there is an individual intolerance.

Diet: What foods should you avoid if you have diverticulitis?

In cases of confirmed diverticulitis (inflammatory phase), it is recommended to adopt a low-fibre diet, or even a liquid diet depending on the case, to allow the colon to rest. Although fibre is essential for prevention, during this phase it can irritate the already inflamed intestinal lining. It is therefore advisable to avoid raw fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and all seeds. Foods containing hard or irritating particles, such as popcorn, courgette seeds, tomato and cucumber seeds, the grains found in cracked wheat bread, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, should also be temporarily avoided.

Once the inflammation is under control and with medical advice, fibre can be gradually reintroduced to prevent recurrence. To prevent diverticulosis, a high-fibre diet is indeed recommended to promote healthy bowel movements, reduce intestinal pressure, and limit the formation of new diverticula. The focus is on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts. Regarding foods containing seeds, which were once suspected of triggering flare-ups, recent studies suggest that they do not pose a problem for most patients, except in cases of personal intolerance (for example: walnuts, caraway seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, sesame seeds). It is therefore best to discuss this with your GP to tailor your diet on a case-by-case basis.

Diverticulitis: Helpful Tips to Follow

Here are some dietary and lifestyle tips to help prevent diverticulitis: 

1. Make sure to stay properly hydrated by drinking enough water.

2. Make sure to maintain a balanced, high-fibre diet.

3. Stay physically active on a regular basis.

4. Adopt a less stressful lifestyle, ensure you get enough sleep, and eat your meals in a calm environment.

5. Never ignore the natural urge to have a bowel movement.

6. Avoid frequent use of laxatives.

7. Chew your food thoroughly before swallowing.

How long does a diverticulitis flare-up last?

The duration of a diverticulitis flare-up can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation and the response to treatment. Generally speaking, an acute diverticulitis flare-up can last from a few days to several weeks.

Gipsy graduated from ESJ Paris. After 10 years in the general and women's specialist press, she chose to specialise in health and well-being. Now a certified Yin Yoga teacher, she skillfully combines her passion for writing with her love of yoga. Her goal goes far beyond simply informing the reader. She is passionate about helping readers embrace simple, practical habits that support their well-being while encouraging a more mindful approach to the world around them. Each article invites readers to adopt a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling lifestyle.