Description

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Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the digestive tract. It's an infection of the diverticula. These are small pockets that develop in the lining of the intestine. Diverticula develop when weak spots in the intestinal wall give way under pressure, causing sections to bulge out. The presence of diverticula is called diverticulosis. It's when they become inflamed or infected that it is considered diverticulitis. Diverticulosis is more common in older adults. Around 58 percent of people over age 60 have diverticulosis, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Diverticulitis is not as common: Less than 5 percent of people with diverticulosis will develop diverticulitis. In general, if you have diverticulosis but you're not having an episode of diverticulitis, a diet high in fiber will help prevent future flare-ups. Depending on the severity of an acute diverticulitis flare-up, a diet low in fiber or a clear liquid diet may be beneficial to reduce symptoms. Fiber softens and adds bulk to stools, helping them pass more easily through the colon. It also reduces pressure in the digestive tract.