Diverticulitis is an inflammation of the diverticula. The treatment of this gastro-intestinal tract disorder in non-serious cases includes adherence to a particular diet, as well as drug therapy. But what is the best thing to drink when suffering from diverticulitis? We asked Dr. Beatrice Salvioli, gastroenterologist at Humanitas.
The diverticula are small “pockets” that can form along the walls of the colon, especially on the left side. Their formation, medically termed diverticulosis, is quite common after the age of 40. However, the simple presence of these “balloons” is not symptomatic: we must pay attention to the inflammation of the diverticula, or rather diverticulitis.
If you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain or constipation, then diverticulosis is turning into a diverticular disease, while the onset of other symptoms, such as fever or nausea and vomiting, signals an ongoing inflammation.
Diet
Uncomplicated cases of diverticulitis are treated with a proper diet, to which you have to adhere to: «If there is already an inflammation in place, diagnosed by both clinical and laboratory analyses (high inflammation indexes), the first thing to suggest to the patient, in terms of diet, is the elimination of waste, meaning fruit, cereals and vegetables, for at least a week», explains Dr. Salvioli.
«It is important to hydrate properly, especially during summer, when diverticula are felt more. Obviously, sauces, gravies, processed and fried foods should also be eliminated. Basically, a light and blank diet».
Only water is allowed
«If there is an inflammation of the diverticula, it is better to drink only natural water and to avoid alcohol and carbonated and/or sweetened drinks. Seasoning oil is allowed», concludes the specialist.
