If you’re diagnosed with diverticulitis, it’s best to avoid certain foods that can irritate the condition. Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches or diverticula in the digestive lining get inflamed or infected, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever. Diet can play a crucial role in managing diverticulitis symptoms. Here are five foods to avoid on a diverticulitis diet.

Corn and popcorn both have hulls that get stuck in the diverticula and cause inflammation. Corn and popcorn are also high-fiber foods, which can contribute to gas and bloating. Instead of corn and popcorn, try low-fiber grains like white rice or quinoa.

Nuts and seeds are small and hard, making them challenging to digest and getting stuck in the diverticula. Additionally, nuts and seeds are high in fat, which can cause diarrhea and aggravate diverticulitis. Foods like nut butters, tahini, and hummus made with blended nuts and seeds have less impact than whole nuts/seeds. Try limiting nuts and seeds to sprinkles, 1-2 tablespoons a day.

Red meat, which includes beef, bison, and lamb, is high in fat and can take a long time to digest. This slow digestion can cause irritation in the diverticula and symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and cramps. Try switching to lean protein sources like fish, chicken, or turkey.

Processed and refined foods like white bread, pasta, and snacks can contain additives, preservatives, and not enough fiber, all which can exacerbate diverticulitis. Try whole, unprocessed foods like whole-grain bread, brown rice, and fresh fruit and vegetables.

Fruits and vegetables with skin and seeds like berries and tomatoes can cause irritation in the diverticula and lead to inflammation, gas, and bloating. However, these foods are high in vitamins and fiber, so it’s best to avoid the skin and seeds and consume them in cooked forms. So, try removing the skin and seeds before adding them to your diet.

In conclusion, the foods that can irritate diverticulitis include corn, popcorn, nuts and seeds, red meat, and fruits and vegetables with skin and seeds. By eliminating these foods from your diet, you can reduce the risk of inflammation and symptoms associated with diverticulitis. It’s always best to consult your doctor before making any diet changes, as every individual’s condition is unique and may require different dietary modifications.