Oatmeal And Diverticulitis

Oatmeal is a nutritious source of soluble fiber.

Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Stockbyte/Getty Images Fiber can be important for someone who deals with diverticulosis or diverticulitis, but it is important to know when to add it. Oatmeal is an excellent source of soluble fiber. “According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, ¼ cup of oats contains 4.1 g of fiber. (See Reference 2)” Oatmeal is a delicious whole grain that contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants. It is also an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, protein and iron.

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DIAGNOSIS OF DIVERTICULOSIS AND DIVERTICULITIS

Diverticulosis occurs when increased pressure in the colon pushes outward causing small bulging pouches or sacs (diverticula) in weakened areas of the colon. There may be minimal or no symptoms. Diverticulitis occurs when the diverticula become infected or inflamed. Symptoms of abdominal pain and tenderness in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen are usually present. There may also be constipation or diarrhea. Diverticular disease can be diagnosed by a barium enema, a colonoscopy, an ultrasound or a CT (computerized tomography) scan.

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DIET PROGRESSION

With diverticulitis, a doctor will usually recommend oral antibiotics and a diet of clear liquids to allow for bowel rest. Clear broths and pulp-free juices, gelatin and popsicles are good choices. This allows less material to pass through the colon, thereby “resting” it. It is important to follow this dietary advice to allow enough time for the colon to heal. Once the healing has occurred, the doctor will gradually advance the diet to solids and include some low fiber foods. Applesauce, cooked vegetables (no seeds or skins), yogurt and other dairy will provide this level of fiber. If adding meats, they need to be tender and well-cooked. When this can be tolerated, usually after a few days, the diet can be slowly advanced to include foods with a higher fiber content. Always work closely with the doctor’s recommendation for dietary allowances.

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OATMEAL AND HIGH FIBER

Fiber will not only assist in keeping the stool soft and helping prevent constipation, but it will also decrease colon pressure which lessens the chances of a diverticulitis flare-up. Vegetables and fruits can be added initially with gradual advancement to beans, brown rice and whole grains. A whole grain that is beneficial for colon health is oatmeal. Additionally, oatmeal is known to provide benefits in heart health, in helping to control blood glucose levels and in possibly reducing certain types of cancer. “According to Corinne Leach, MPH, MS, PhD, getting plenty of whole grains and oatmeal or whole oats is one of the changes that cancer survivors can make to affect their long-term health in a positive way. (See Reference 1)” Always remember to include plenty of water (8 cups) each day when eating a diet that is high in fiber, as the soluble fiber will absorb the water and help keep the stool soft as it passes through the colon.

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WARNINGS

If there is increased abdominal pain, fever, inability to tolerate oral fluids or rectal bleeding noted, it is important to contact the doctor. Patients with severe diverticulitis may require hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics. (See Reference 3)

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  references & resources
  
      American Cancer Society: Cancer Survivors: Make Changes for Long-term Health Gains
    
      USDA National Nutrient Database: Basic Report: 20038, Oats
    
      American College of Gastroenterology: Diagnosis and Management of Diverticular Disease of the Colon in Adults
    
      University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Diverticular Disease and Diet
    
      MayoClinic.com; Diverticulitis Diet; Michael F. Picco, M.D.; October 2010
    
      National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Diverticular Disease
       




  references & resources
  
      American Cancer Society: Cancer Survivors: Make Changes for Long-term Health Gains
    
      USDA National Nutrient Database: Basic Report: 20038, Oats
    
      American College of Gastroenterology: Diagnosis and Management of Diverticular Disease of the Colon in Adults
    
      University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Diverticular Disease and Diet
    
      MayoClinic.com; Diverticulitis Diet; Michael F. Picco, M.D.; October 2010
    
      National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Diverticular Disease
    




Oatmeal is a nutritious source of soluble fiber.

Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Stockbyte/Getty Images

Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Stockbyte/Getty Images

      American Cancer Society: Cancer Survivors: Make Changes for Long-term Health Gains
    
      USDA National Nutrient Database: Basic Report: 20038, Oats
    
      American College of Gastroenterology: Diagnosis and Management of Diverticular Disease of the Colon in Adults
    
      University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Diverticular Disease and Diet
    
      MayoClinic.com; Diverticulitis Diet; Michael F. Picco, M.D.; October 2010
    
      National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Diverticular Disease