What is Diverticulosis Diet?

Diverticulosis is a condition in which small pouches called diverticula form in the intestine. These pouches can become inflamed, leading to a condition known as diverticulitis. While diverticulitis can be a painful and serious condition, diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic and can be managed with dietary changes. A diverticulosis diet is a low-fiber diet that helps reduce symptoms.

What to Eat on a Diverticulosis Diet

The primary goal of a diverticulosis diet is to reduce the amount of fiber in the diet. This helps reduce inflammation and pain that can occur from diverticulosis. Foods to include on a diverticulosis diet include:

Refined grains such as white bread, white rice, and white pasta
Cooked vegetables, including potatoes without the skin
Fruit juices
Smooth peanut butter
Protein foods such as fish, poultry, eggs, and tofu
Low-fat dairy products such as yogurt and cottage cheese
Canned and cooked fruits without skins or seeds

Foods to Avoid on a Diverticulosis Diet

Foods to avoid on a diverticulosis diet include:

Whole grains and bran products
High-fiber fruits and vegetables such as berries, apples, and corn
Nuts and seeds
Popcorn
Dried beans and legumes
Coconut
Chocolate

Sample Diverticulosis Diet Recipes

Creamy Spinach Soup

This creamy spinach soup is perfect for a diverticulosis diet. It contains no whole grains, nuts, or seeds and is full of flavor. To make this soup, you will need:

1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of chicken broth
1 cup of heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2 cups of spinach, chopped

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth. Serve the soup warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.

Savory Omelet

This savory omelet is a great breakfast option for a diverticulosis diet. It is full of flavor and nutrients, and it is easy to make. You will need:

1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 eggs
2 tablespoons of water
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/2 cup of cooked vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
2 tablespoons of cheese such as cheddar, feta, or mozzarella

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are nearly set. Add the vegetables and cheese and cook until the eggs are cooked through. Serve the omelet warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Banana Bread

This banana bread is a great snack for a diverticulosis diet. It is low in fiber and full of flavor. To make this bread, you will need:

1 cup of white all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 cup of butter, melted
1/2 cup of sugar
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 egg
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve the banana bread warm or at room temperature.