Diverticulosis And Diverticulitis, How To Treat Them?

Diverticulitis has no symptoms until it becomes chronic. It is believed to be caused by a poor diet that continued for a long time.

Diverticula are a species of small balls that grow on the lining of the large intestine. When they become inflamed or infected, they cause two pathologies: diverticulitis and diverticulosis.

What should you know about diverticulitis?

This pathology occurs when the intestinal diverticula become inflamed and capture fecal matter. It usually affects people over the age of 60, and the reasons for this sudden swelling are not well understood.

It is believed to be caused by prolonged poor nutrition, characterized by a lack of fiber and the consumption of processed or refined foods.

One of the most important problems with diverticulitis is that it doesn’t cause symptoms until it becomes chronic.

It can only be detected in the early stages of its manifestation by colitis or distension of the lower part of the belly.

When the disease is more advanced, it causes the following symptoms:

• Blood in stool
• Distensions or gases
• Fever
• Chills
• Increased sensitivity in the lower abdomen
• Vomiting or nausea
• Lack of appetite
• Pain in the lower back

What should you know about diverticulosis?

In the case of this pathology, the diverticula can no longer perform their evacuation work as they should, and fecal matter therefore accumulates in the intestine.

When the colon is saturated with stool that is not eliminated, the patient runs the risk of suffering from general poisoning.

In addition, the infection can spread to other organs and cause peritonitis, for example.

The causes of diverticulosis

• Unbalanced diet based on toxic  and irritating substances.
• General weakening of the intestine due to overweight and constipation.
• Sedentary life made up of bad habits or a lack of exercise.
• Emotional causes: stress, pressures, anxiety, etc.

Symptoms of diverticulosis

• Prolonged constipation.
• Stomach pain when going to the bathroom.
• Inflammation of the stomach.
• Presence of very hard stools.
• Gas.

The best natural remedies for diverticulosis and diverticulitis

In addition to changing your eating habits and starting to exercise, you can take advantage of nature’s bounties to treat diverticulosis problems in the intestines.

The best remedies are:

Flax seeds

Flax, in the form of seeds or flour, is excellent for our gut, thanks to its fiber content.

Remember that you need to crush flax seeds well and then hydrate them before consuming them. Otherwise, they will make your condition worse. You can also ingest a spoonful of powdered flaxseed on an empty stomach. Then another before going to sleep, accompanying them with a good amount of water.

Be careful, because this natural recipe is not recommended for pregnant women or people who suffer from blood diseases, as well as intestinal obstructions.

Wheat bran

It is also a great source of fiber, which you can take advantage of to combat these pathologies.

Bran helps fight constipation and improve the quality of stools.

Whole wheat bread is one of the best ways to consume this seed. Some people also use wheat bran in other preparations, such as:

• Pies
• Soups
• Creamy
• Salads
• Smoothies
• Natural juices

Chamomile

This herb has the ability to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of diverticulitis as well as diverticulosis.

You can consume it as an infusion.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of chamomile flowers (3 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• Boil the two ingredients together, let it steep for a few minutes, then strain and drink.

You can also sweeten it with a little honey, which has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Mint

It is a plant that has many benefits to fight against digestive and intestinal problems.

A mint tea after each of your main meals can be of great help in relieving abdominal swelling, stomach pain and nausea.

It is recommended to drink 3 cups a day.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of mint leaves (3 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Preparation

• Prepare your tea as usual, then sweeten it with honey or stevia.

But don’t choose this home remedy if you suffer from stomach acid.

Oregano

This aromatic plant has the ability to reduce infections present in the colon.

In addition to using it in your dishes (it is one of the most used spices in gastronomy), you can also consume it in the form of an infusion.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of dried or fresh oregano leaves (3 g)
• 1 cup of water (250 ml)

Thyme

It is a great source of fiber, which shows that the seeds do not have a monopoly on this benefit.

In addition, thyme has analgesic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is therefore an excellent natural remedy for people who suffer from diverticulitis problems.

Use it as a condiment in your salads, soups, soups or sauces.

Turmeric

Also known as turmeric, turmeric is a very powerful anti-inflammatory. It is consumed in very small quantities, because it has the ability to increase body temperature, and its taste is quite strong.

Turmeric helps reduce intestinal swelling caused by diverticulitis.

Apple

It is a fruit that has many benefits. An apple contains soluble and insoluble fiber. It therefore helps to maintain the digestive and intestinal systems in good condition. 

For people who suffer from diverticulosis, it is advisable not to consume the skin of apples, whether they are raw or cooked.

It is also recommended to eat them in small bites, to digest them well.

Plums and prunes

Plums and prunes are renowned for their virtues in the fight against constipation. These two fruits provide a good amount of fiber to the body. They are therefore particularly recommended for people who suffer from diverticulitis.

In addition, they help regulate the evacuation of stool, and improve their consistency.

Do you want to know more? : How to do an intestinal cleansing at home?

What should you avoid if you have diverticulosis or diverticulitis?

In both cases, it is recommended not to consume the following foods:

• Whole seeds
• Strawberries
• Sesame
• Pomegranates
• Blackberries
• Raspberries
• Sun-flower seeds
• Coffee
• Chocolate
• Soda
• Processed foods
• Flours and refined sugars
• Pop corn