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Home Remedies for Diverticulitis



Home Remedies for diverticulitis should not be relied on without consultation with your doctor. Studies have found home care and treatment to be effective in uncomplicated cases of diverticulitis. Diverticulitis natural remedies typically involve the use of dietary and lifestyle modifications that are complimentary to treatment and not meant as an alternative. Here are some home remedies for Diverticulitis that can help to prevent the disease or slow down its progression:

  • Increase Fiber Intake: Foods that are rich in fiber such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables help to regulate bowel movements by softening wastes and enabling them to pass easily through the colon more easily. This reduces the pressure inside the colon. It is advisable to consume at least 20 – 35 grams of fiber daily. It is important to add fiber to the diet in a gradual manner to prevent abdominal pain, gas formation and bloating. Your doctor may prescribe a fiber supplement in case you are unable to get enough fiber from your diet.
  • Maintain Adequate Fluid Intake: Since fiber absorbs water and softens the waste matter in the colon, it is important to constantly replenish your fluid levels. An inadequate intake of water may lead to constipation.
  • Avoid Delaying Bowel Movements: Do not delay bowel movements when you feel the urge as this can cause hardening of the stools. Since more force is required to eliminate hard stools, it can trigger the formation of diverticula and may also worsen diverticulitis.
  • Get Enough Exercise: Regular exercise helps to improve normal bowel movements and reduces the pressure inside the large intestine. It is advisable to get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day.

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References
  1. Gordon N Buchanan, Nicholas J Kenefick, C.Richard G Cohen, Diverticulitis, Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology, Volume 16, Issue 4, August 2002, Pages 635-647, ISSN 1521-6918, 10.1053/bega.2002.0322.
  2. Wendy Sotheran, Asha Senapati, Diverticulitis and its Complications, Surgery (Oxford), Volume 20, Issue 7, 1 July 2002, Pages 164-169, ISSN 0263-9319, 10.1383/surg.20.7.164.14396.
  3. John G. Touzios, Eric J. Dozois, Diverticulosis and Acute Diverticulitis, Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, Volume 38, Issue 3, September 2009, Pages 513-525, ISSN 0889-8553, 10.1016/j.gtc.2009.06.004.
  4. Matilde Rodríguez-Cerrillo, Ana Poza-Montoro, Eddita Fernandez-Diaz, Amaia Iñurrieta Romero, Patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis and comorbidity can be treated at home, European Journal of Internal Medicine, Volume 21, Issue 6, December 2010, Pages 553-554, ISSN 0953-6205, 10.1016/j.ejim.2010.09.002.