Diverticulitis

Related Terms

Diverticular Disease

Small pouches can form in the wall of the colon. Diverticulitis is an infection or swelling of these pouches. It can cause belly pain and swelling, fever, nausea and vomiting. It may be a short term problem or lead to problems that get in the way of daily life.

Medicine and diet changes can manage a flare up. Surgery may be needed if pouch has regular or severe problems. Natural therapies may help to further ease symptoms along with standard care.

Natural Therapies

May Be Effective

Fiber softens stools and makes them pass through the bowel more easily. Eating foods that are low in fiber raises your risk of this health problem.3, 5, 6

These supplements may also help:

  • Fiber supplements may also ease some symptoms. Adding an antibiotic called rifaximin may lower the chances of symptoms.2, 5
  • Probiotics may ease bloating and pain when used with a high fiber diet.1, 4

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Herbs and Supplements to Be Used With Caution

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some may get in the way of treatment. They can also make illness worse or cause new problems.

 

References

1. Annibale B, Maconi G, et al. Efficacy of Lactobacillus paracasei sub. paracasei F19 on abdominal symptoms in patients with symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease: a pilot study. Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. 2011 Mar;57(1):13-22.

2. Bianchi M, Festa V, et al. Meta-analysis: long-term therapy with rifaximin in the management of uncomplicated diverticular disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2011 Apr 33(8):902-910.

3. Unlu C, Daniels L, et al. A systematic review of high-fibre dietary therapy in diverticular disease. Int J Colorectal Dis. 2012 Apr 27(4):419-427.

4. Lahner E, Bellisario C, et al. Probiotics in the Treatment of Diverticular Disease. A Systematic Review. J Gastrointestin Liver Dis. 2016 Mar;25(1):79-86.

5. Carabotti M, Annibale B, et al. Role of Fiber in Symptomatic Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2017 Feb 20;9(2). pii: E161.

6. Dahl C, Crichton M, et al. Evidence for Dietary Fibre Modification in the Recovery and Prevention of Reoccurrence of Acute, Uncomplicated Diverticulitis: A Systematic Literature Review. Nutrients. 2018 Jan 27;10(2). pii: E137.

Last reviewed May 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board