Does diet trigger a diverticulitis attack?

Diverticulitis occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the digestive tract become infected and inflamed — causing severe abdominal pain, fever and nausea. It's a common misconception that diet can trigger diverticulitis. In fact, however, no specific foods are known to trigger diverticulitis attacks. Although nuts, seeds and popcorn were once discouraged in the diverticulitis diet, that's no longer the case. Researchers have found that these foods don't increase the risk of diverticulitis or diverticular bleeding.

To prevent attacks of diverticulitis, it may help to:

* Eat more fiber. High-fiber foods — such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains — soften waste and help it pass more quickly through the colon. This reduces pressure within the digestive tract, which can reduce the risk of diverticulitis attacks.

* Drink plenty of fluids. Fiber works by absorbing water and increasing the soft, bulky waste in the colon. But if you don't drink enough liquid to replace what's absorbed, fiber can be constipating — which increases pressure within the colon.

* Exercise regularly. Exercise promotes normal bowel function and reduces pressure inside the colon, which can reduce the risk of diverticulitis attacks.

source: mayoclinic