Diverticulitis is the name given to inflammation of the diverticula, which are abnormal sacs that form in the walls of the intestines. The presence of these sacs without inflammation is known as diverticulosis.
Causes
It is estimated that half the UK population over the age of 50 have diverticula, the majority of whom have no symptoms at all. Diverticula are thought to result from abnormal pressure within the colon, which causes pouches of intestinal lining to protrude through the intestinal wall. The term “diverticular disease” can refer to either diverticulitis or diverticulosis.
The causes of diverticulosis and diverticulitis are unknown. However, research suggests that the following may increase the risk:
- eating a low-fibre diet
- straining during bowel movements (due to constipation or the presence of hard stools)
- lack of exercise
- obesity tends to increase the severity of diverticular disease; as does stress and smoking
- secondary to gallbladder disease and coronary artery disease
Symptoms
- abdominal pain (in particular, tenderness in the lower left side of the abdomen)
- cramping
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
- chills
- a change in bowel habits
The abdominal pain associated with diverticulitis tends to be severe and occur suddenly, although in some cases it may begin as a mild discomfort and then worsen over several days.
Lifestyle Modification
- Try not to strain during bowel movements
- Avoid alcohol
- Exercise regularly
- Drink at least eight glasses of pure water a day
- Establish a regular bowel routine by trying to have a bowel movement at approximately the same time each day
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and fluids (which are more likely to cause flatulence)
At the onset of an attack, have a cleansing enema with 900ml of luke-warm water mixed with the juice from a fresh squeezed lemon. This will aid in ridding the colon of undigested food that has been trapped and will also relieve pain.
Dietary Modification
A high fibre diet has been shown to be protective against diverticular disease. Studies indicate a 50% increase in incidence of diverticular disease in people eating a diet high in meat and low in vegetables relative to those eating a high-vegetable and low-meat diet. In addition to helping prevent the disease, a high fibre diet may also be useful as a treatment for diverticular disease. Recommended intake is at least 20 to 35 grams of fibre, in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables, and cereals that are high in fibre and bran. At least 2 litres of pure water should be consumed each day, as a high fibre diet will not be effective without adequate water consumption.
It is recommended that the primary source of protein come from fish & vegetables.
Avoid foods that contain indigestible roughage, such as celery and corn. Other foods that should be avoided include grains, seeds and nuts as these foods can be hard to digest, resulting in bloating & flatulence. Additionally avoid dairy products, red meat, fried foods, spices and sugar (including processed & refined foods).
Since diverticulitis can lead to a number of serious complications (including rectal bleeding, the formation of abscesses, and intestinal obstruction), it is important to seek medical treatment if you experience any symptoms of diverticulitis.
Nutritional Supplement Treatment Options
Fibre – a fibre supplement may improve constipation in people with diverticular disease.
Lactobacillus acidophilus helps to support a healthy intestinal tract and maintain a healthy intestinal flora particularly in the small intestine, thus improving assimilation.
Vitamin B Complex – The B vitamins play a role in the conversion of carbohydrates into energy; in the metabolism of fats and protein; and in the maintenance of muscle tone in the GI tract.
Proteolytic Enzymes aid in digestion by promoting the breakdown of protein, carbohydrates and fat; and reduce inflammation in the colon.
L-Glutamine plays a large role in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining by enhancing its protective mucosal lining.
Botanical Treatment Options
Psyllium is a natural source of mucilage, which helps trigger contraction of the colon wall.
Glucomannan is a water-soluble bulk-forming dietary fibre derived from konjac root (Amorphophallus konjac). Studies show that if helps to reduce the symptoms of diverticular disease.
Chlorophyll has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a detoxifier by chelating with many toxic metals and chemicals in the digestive tract. Chlorophyll also helps to maintain a healthy intestinal flora. It is commonly prescribed in the form of chlorella or spirulina.
Garlic aids in digestion and is a natural antibiotic. It is also a potent chelator of toxic chemicals in the digestive tract.
Alfalfa is a natural source of vitamin K and essential minerals which are frequently deficient in those suffering with diverticulitis. Alfalfa also contains chlorophyll, which aids in healing.
Aloe Vera Juice – Scientists have identified nearly 100 active ingredients within the Aloe Vera plant, of which 75 have been found to be active healing compounds. Aloe Vera juice contains a class of long-chain sugars called polysaccharides and is especially rich in acemannan – a polysaccharide that stimulates the body’s immune system to produce chemicals which inhibit the proliferation of viruses. Aloe vera is an “amphoteric” as it can treat opposite conditions by either raising or lowering levels of hydrochloric acid as required.
Aloe Vera helps restore balance in the digestive system in several ways:
- It acts as an alkalising agent
- It reduces yeast overgrowth that can destroy the normal “friendly” bacteria in the gut
- It penetrates the walls of the digestive system to remove harmful bacteria.
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Article contributed by Dr Tracy S Gates, DO, DIBAK, L.C.P.H., Consultant, Pure Bio Ltd. Copyright © Pure Bio Ltd 2023. All rights reserved. Pure Bio Ltd are a leading UK supplier of the highest quality PURE nutritional supplements, based in Horsham, West Sussex.
Proud Winners of Southern Enterprise Awards, Best Nationwide Hypoallergenic Nutritional Supplements Distributor 2022 and 2023. Visit www.purebio.co.uk for all your nutritional supplement needs
