Diverticulitis is a condition of inflammation within the colon. Here, we give a description of diverticulitis, and then present four supplements which could support the body in specific ways to help overcome this condition.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis refers to a certain type of colon inflammation. Within the colon, irregular and bulging pouches called diverticula can form. This is called diverticulosis, is common in those over 50, and is usually inconsequential. However, inflammation of these pouches is not.
Diverticulitis causes pain, usually in the lower left area of the abdomen. It’s often sudden and intense, but its onset could also be mild and gradual. Other symptoms include nausea, fever, abdominal tenderness, and changes in bowel movements. If you experience these symptoms, it’s recommended that you see a doctor.
Causes vary for diverticulitis. Common ones include damage to diverticula tissues and bacterial infection. Lifestyle risk factors must be considered as well, including obesity, smoking, frequent alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise. Fixing these has a huge bearing on the likelihood of diverticulitis symptoms.
Treatment is simple if diverticulitis presents no complications; This can be recouped with rest, diet changes, and/or a prescription antibiotic. It is in cases of further complications due to diverticulitis where more treatment is needed, such as a hospital stay and the use of IV antibiotics, or even surgery.
About 15% of people with diverticulitis develop complications. This can include colon blockage, abscess formation (in cases of bacterial infection), diverticular hemorrhage, and damage to the colon tissue (which can have severe consequences). For these reasons, every measure to avoid diverticulitis and its complications should be considered!
Supplements for Diverticulitis
For someone who experiences diverticulitis, it’s important to be conscientious of diet and nutrient intake. Both nutrient intake, as well as fiber intake, can influence the condition of the colon and the digestive process. Here are four supplements with specific applications that can help individuals who experience diverticulitis:
Vitamin D is a crucial vitamin. Studies suggest that low levels of vitamin D within your body could have a consequential effect on the development and severity of diverticulitis. Conversely, the data directly show that higher levels of vitamin D are associated with a much lower risk of developing this condition. There is a seasonal pattern of hospitalizations due to diverticulitis that occurs in parallel to UV exposure. This pattern is cited as further evidence of the relationship between vitamin D and diverticulitis.
Psyllium husk fiber: Upping your fiber intake if you are at risk of diverticulitis could help reduce risk of diverticular disease. This includes psyllium husk, which is an insoluble fiber that has the potential to reduce occurrence of diverticulitis.
Probiotics: Certain probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum, are known for their healthful influence on the gastrointestinal system. Studies have shown that taking in probiotic bacteria could reduce the symptoms and recurrence of diverticular disease. It’s believed that this could apply to diverticulitis.
Omega-3 fatty acids could help work against diverticulitis. This is because of the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids It’s recommended that you talk to a doctor before taking this supplement, as it could interact with blood-thinning medications.
Diverticulitis is a condition that should be addressed actively and holistically, and with the intent to prevent a recurrence. Consider the ways that these four supplements could help. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any of these to address diverticulitis or, for that matter, any type of health condition.