Diet Once Diverticulitis is Diagnosed

[Melisa__0__0]

  I have a friend who recently had a heart attack and then was re-admitted with Diverticulitis.  He spent several days in the hospital, with antibiotic treatment.  He asked his physician about diet. He was told to AVOID foods that are difficult to digest..ie lettuce.  I have heard and read that a high fiber diet is important with Diverticulosis... once someone has developed Diverticulitis.. is the diet different( after the acute stage obviously).  My friend is on a healthy heart diet which encourages high fiber, but has now been told not to eat lettuce,cabbage etc. Could you please comment on this and possibly give a diet example.  Thank you.
  Melissa
Dear Melissa,
In painful diverticulosis the general recommended diet is to increase fiber (even though this remains unproven). In diverticulitis, during the acute stage, bowel rest and antibiotics are recommended. In very mild cases fat free fluids and antibiotics can be given. As the acute attack improves,  low residue solid foods are recommended. An example of a residue restricted diet meal could include the following dinner:
Strained tomato juice (1/2 cup)
Broiled skinless chicken breast (3 oz)
White rice (1/2 cup)
Cooked spinach (1/2 cup)
White roll (1)
Margarine (2 tsp)
Low fat-frozen yogurt (1/2 cup)
Applesauce (1/2 cup)
Coffee/tea
I hope you find this information helpful.

This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you would like to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat one of our experts in Gastroenterology.

HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: diverticulosis, diverticulitis, dietary recommendations