What is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is the development
of pockets, usually within the colon, which collect waste particles. Most people remain symptom free, however when
the pockets become inflamed symptoms can include cramping, diarrhea, fever, and
even blood in the stool.
Who is likely to develop this?
Diverticulitis is mainly seen in people
who don't have enough fiber in their diet. A diet high in fiber is important
for two reasons; it improves stool motility and it feeds the micro flora within
the colon.
Use of Beano, which provides
enzymes to digest food that can cause gas, also reduces the amount fiber that
the colon needs to stay healthy.
How is Diverticulitis treated?
Treatment is targeted to first
treat the infection. At this time a low fiber diet is recommended. During the
second stage of treatment and high fiber diet can be reintroduced. At this time
probiotics can be introduced.
In addition to improving digestive
health, well balanced gut flora synthesizes B vitamins, folic acid, and vitamin
K; improves absorption of minerals; strengthens the immune system; and performs
many other health-promoting functions.
When purchasing probiotics, look
for freeze-dried preparations. These will be found in the refrigerated section
of your health food store, and should remain refrigerated.
Probiotics are enhanced with use of
prebiotics such as fructooligosacchrides (FOS) and inulin. Foods such as
onions, asparagus, whole grains, and dandelions, among many others.
Useful herbs for Diverticulitis
Slippery elm and psyllium are
mucilaginous herbs that improve stool motility and enhances colon flora.
Cramp bark, wild yam, and chamomile
are spasmolytics and they work to decrease pain associated with spasms.
Grape seed extract, and hawthorn
work to increase the strength of the colon wall.
Echinacea and andrographis are
immune enhancing herbs, and can work to control infection.
Meadowsweet and chamomile work
directly on the gastrointestinal tract as anti-inflammatory agents.
Goldenseal, Barberry are
gastrointestinal antiseptics and can encourage the growth of normal flora.
Peppermint and yarrow can be used
to reduce fever.
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