Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a common disease of the bowel, in particular the large intestine. Diverticulitis develops from diverticulosis, which involves the formation of pouches (diverticula) on the outside of the colon. Diverticulitis results if one of these diverticula becomes inflamed.

The exact cause of diverticulitis remains unknown to modern medical science.

Low-fiber diet/high fat diet is the main cause of diverticular disease. These cause aggravation of vata and pitta dosha. Aggravation of vata and pitta dosha causes impairment of digestion. Impaired digestion causes constipation.

Constipation makes the muscles strain to move hard stool, causing increased pressure in the colon. This excess pressure may cause the weak spots in the colon to bulge out and become diverticula. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula become infected or inflamed.

• Diet should consist of unrefined foods, such as whole grain cereals, bran, honey and lentils. Green and leafy vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, celery, pumpkin and squash. Fresh fruits like pears, grapes, figs, papaya, grapefruit, gooseberries and guava are all recommended. Dry fruits like figs and raisins are also suggested.
• The foods which should be drastically curtailed or altogether avoided are high fat foods such as butter, cheese, chocolate, cream, ice cream, fatty meat, fried food and gravies as well as high carbohydrate foods like bread, candy, cookies, cereal products, potatoes, sugar, high fructose corn syrup and rich puddings. Beverages such as all fountain drinks and alcoholic drinks should also be avoided.