How to Prevent Diverticular Disease

by Garreth Myers


Diverticular disease is a condition that affects the digestive system. It is most commonly found in the lower part of the large intestine. The condition occurs when small pouches or pockets form in the wall of the colon and lower large intestine. These parts of the intestine are made of a strong lining which is used to keep the fecal matter in place as it passes out of the body. However, if there is a weak spot in any part of the lining, a diverticulum may form. It is possible for there to be multiple diverticula present in the colon. An individual who is affected by this problem is said to be suffering from diverticular disease. There are often no symptoms felt by the patient as the digestive system continues to function normally along with the solid waste disposal system. In some cases, the patient will experience pain, bloating, diarrhea or Constipation. However, these symptoms are common for almost any digestive problem. This makes it difficult to diagnose this condition without using an imaging test or a colonoscopy procedure. Over a period of time, the diverticula can get infected and this can cause complications to the individual's health. These complications include blockages and bleeding due to tears in the lining.

There is still no concrete research about the exact cause of diverticular disease. The most commonly accepted theory is diet based. An individual consuming a diet that has low fiber content is susceptible to this condition. Fiber helps with the movement of food through the digestive system. When an individual has a low fiber diet, the food movement is slower than normal. This can lead to a buildup of pressure in the intestinal system as the muscular movements need to work more aggressively to push the food through the system. This pressure is exerted against the lining of the colon and this can lead to diverticular disease.

One can prevent diverticular disease by consuming a diet that is rich in fiber. Fiber filled diets also help with weight control as they allow food to move quickly through the digestive system. This prevents too much food being absorbed into the body and allows food to be passed out as waste. One can also prevent diverticular disease by treating constipation immediately. Constipation may occur at some point and this should be treated using natural exercise or using laxatives that help release the fecal matter. One can also avoid diverticular disease by avoiding the exertion of too much pressure during defecation.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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