Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, can be a painful condition that requires dietary management. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing flare-ups, aiding recovery, and preventing future episodes. Read on for a complete guide to foods to eat with diverticulitis.
Understanding Diverticulitis and Your Digestive System
What happens in your colon during diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches that develop along the walls of the intestine and colon. Diverticulitis is common with aging. Most people will develop diverticula, but only a small percentage will experience diverticulitis.
When one of the diverticula becomes inflamed or infected, the tissue around it swells, and the area becomes painful. The inflammation stays localized in uncomplicated diverticulitis (the more common form). With complicated diverticulitis (the less common form), the inflammation may lead to an abscess or tiny tear in the intestine or colon.
Why your diet matters during flares and recovery
Because diverticulitis involves your digestive tract, what you eat greatly impacts how you feel during a flare and how well you recover afterward. Diet significantly affects the risk of developing diverticulitis. Risk factors for diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet, eating lots of red meat, and consuming a pro-inflammatory diet. When your diet is low in fiber, stool tends to be harder and moves more slowly through the body. This may increase pressure in the colon and contribute to diverticula forming or becoming inflamed.
Diet matters for recovery, too: during an acute flare-up, high-fiber foods may aggravate your colon, contributing to pain and symptoms. Dietary modifications may be necessary during flare-ups to relieve symptoms and pain. However, once the flare resolves, it is essential to resume a high-fiber diet to reduce the risk of additional flares.
A diverticulitis diet mirrors an overall healthy eating pattern. Prioritize high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What to Eat During a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
Little evidence supports dietary modifications during a flare-up. One small study found that consuming a regular diet during a flare-up was generally well-tolerated. Still, some people may wish to change their diet to ease the pain and symptoms associated with flare-ups.
Clear liquids to start with
A clear liquid diet is recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up. A clear liquid diet means consuming only liquids and see-through foods like broth or clear soups, plain gelatin, ice pops, and clear juices like apple or white grape.
A clear liquid diet is temporary. Most people report that a clear liquid diet provides greater comfort than continuing with foods. Follow a clear liquid diet for two to three days, or until pain improves.
When and how to reintroduce food
You should be able to eat more than a clear liquid diet after three to five days. If you’re unable to advance your diet after three to five days, contact your healthcare provider. Reintroduce solid food with low-fiber options that allow your gut to continue recovering.
Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, can be a painful condition that requires dietary management. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing flare-ups, aiding recovery, and preventing future episodes. Read on for a complete guide to foods to eat with diverticulitis.
Understanding Diverticulitis and Your Digestive System
What happens in your colon during diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches that develop along the walls of the intestine and colon. Diverticulitis is common with aging. Most people will develop diverticula, but only a small percentage will experience diverticulitis.
When one of the diverticula becomes inflamed or infected, the tissue around it swells, and the area becomes painful. The inflammation stays localized in uncomplicated diverticulitis (the more common form). With complicated diverticulitis (the less common form), the inflammation may lead to an abscess or tiny tear in the intestine or colon.
Why your diet matters during flares and recovery
Because diverticulitis involves your digestive tract, what you eat greatly impacts how you feel during a flare and how well you recover afterward. Diet significantly affects the risk of developing diverticulitis. Risk factors for diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet, eating lots of red meat, and consuming a pro-inflammatory diet. When your diet is low in fiber, stool tends to be harder and moves more slowly through the body. This may increase pressure in the colon and contribute to diverticula forming or becoming inflamed.
Diet matters for recovery, too: during an acute flare-up, high-fiber foods may aggravate your colon, contributing to pain and symptoms. Dietary modifications may be necessary during flare-ups to relieve symptoms and pain. However, once the flare resolves, it is essential to resume a high-fiber diet to reduce the risk of additional flares.
A diverticulitis diet mirrors an overall healthy eating pattern. Prioritize high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What to Eat During a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
Little evidence supports dietary modifications during a flare-up. One small study found that consuming a regular diet during a flare-up was generally well-tolerated. Still, some people may wish to change their diet to ease the pain and symptoms associated with flare-ups.
Clear liquids to start with
A clear liquid diet is recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up. A clear liquid diet means consuming only liquids and see-through foods like broth or clear soups, plain gelatin, ice pops, and clear juices like apple or white grape.
A clear liquid diet is temporary. Most people report that a clear liquid diet provides greater comfort than continuing with foods. Follow a clear liquid diet for two to three days, or until pain improves.
When and how to reintroduce food
You should be able to eat more than a clear liquid diet after three to five days. If you’re unable to advance your diet after three to five days, contact your healthcare provider. Reintroduce solid food with low-fiber options that allow your gut to continue recovering.
Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, can be a painful condition that requires dietary management. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing flare-ups, aiding recovery, and preventing future episodes. Read on for a complete guide to foods to eat with diverticulitis.
Understanding Diverticulitis and Your Digestive System
What happens in your colon during diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches that develop along the walls of the intestine and colon. Diverticulitis is common with aging. Most people will develop diverticula, but only a small percentage will experience diverticulitis.
When one of the diverticula becomes inflamed or infected, the tissue around it swells, and the area becomes painful. The inflammation stays localized in uncomplicated diverticulitis (the more common form). With complicated diverticulitis (the less common form), the inflammation may lead to an abscess or tiny tear in the intestine or colon.
Why your diet matters during flares and recovery
Because diverticulitis involves your digestive tract, what you eat greatly impacts how you feel during a flare and how well you recover afterward. Diet significantly affects the risk of developing diverticulitis. Risk factors for diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet, eating lots of red meat, and consuming a pro-inflammatory diet. When your diet is low in fiber, stool tends to be harder and moves more slowly through the body. This may increase pressure in the colon and contribute to diverticula forming or becoming inflamed.
Diet matters for recovery, too: during an acute flare-up, high-fiber foods may aggravate your colon, contributing to pain and symptoms. Dietary modifications may be necessary during flare-ups to relieve symptoms and pain. However, once the flare resolves, it is essential to resume a high-fiber diet to reduce the risk of additional flares.
A diverticulitis diet mirrors an overall healthy eating pattern. Prioritize high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What to Eat During a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
Little evidence supports dietary modifications during a flare-up. One small study found that consuming a regular diet during a flare-up was generally well-tolerated. Still, some people may wish to change their diet to ease the pain and symptoms associated with flare-ups.
Clear liquids to start with
A clear liquid diet is recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up. A clear liquid diet means consuming only liquids and see-through foods like broth or clear soups, plain gelatin, ice pops, and clear juices like apple or white grape.
A clear liquid diet is temporary. Most people report that a clear liquid diet provides greater comfort than continuing with foods. Follow a clear liquid diet for two to three days, or until pain improves.
When and how to reintroduce food
You should be able to eat more than a clear liquid diet after three to five days. If you’re unable to advance your diet after three to five days, contact your healthcare provider. Reintroduce solid food with low-fiber options that allow your gut to continue recovering.
Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, can be a painful condition that requires dietary management. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing flare-ups, aiding recovery, and preventing future episodes. Read on for a complete guide to foods to eat with diverticulitis.
Understanding Diverticulitis and Your Digestive System
What happens in your colon during diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches that develop along the walls of the intestine and colon. Diverticulitis is common with aging. Most people will develop diverticula, but only a small percentage will experience diverticulitis.
When one of the diverticula becomes inflamed or infected, the tissue around it swells, and the area becomes painful. The inflammation stays localized in uncomplicated diverticulitis (the more common form). With complicated diverticulitis (the less common form), the inflammation may lead to an abscess or tiny tear in the intestine or colon.
Why your diet matters during flares and recovery
Because diverticulitis involves your digestive tract, what you eat greatly impacts how you feel during a flare and how well you recover afterward. Diet significantly affects the risk of developing diverticulitis. Risk factors for diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet, eating lots of red meat, and consuming a pro-inflammatory diet. When your diet is low in fiber, stool tends to be harder and moves more slowly through the body. This may increase pressure in the colon and contribute to diverticula forming or becoming inflamed.
Diet matters for recovery, too: during an acute flare-up, high-fiber foods may aggravate your colon, contributing to pain and symptoms. Dietary modifications may be necessary during flare-ups to relieve symptoms and pain. However, once the flare resolves, it is essential to resume a high-fiber diet to reduce the risk of additional flares.
A diverticulitis diet mirrors an overall healthy eating pattern. Prioritize high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What to Eat During a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
Little evidence supports dietary modifications during a flare-up. One small study found that consuming a regular diet during a flare-up was generally well-tolerated. Still, some people may wish to change their diet to ease the pain and symptoms associated with flare-ups.
Clear liquids to start with
A clear liquid diet is recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up. A clear liquid diet means consuming only liquids and see-through foods like broth or clear soups, plain gelatin, ice pops, and clear juices like apple or white grape.
A clear liquid diet is temporary. Most people report that a clear liquid diet provides greater comfort than continuing with foods. Follow a clear liquid diet for two to three days, or until pain improves.
When and how to reintroduce food
You should be able to eat more than a clear liquid diet after three to five days. If you’re unable to advance your diet after three to five days, contact your healthcare provider. Reintroduce solid food with low-fiber options that allow your gut to continue recovering.
Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, can be a painful condition that requires dietary management. What you eat plays a crucial role in managing flare-ups, aiding recovery, and preventing future episodes. Read on for a complete guide to foods to eat with diverticulitis.
Understanding Diverticulitis and Your Digestive System
What happens in your colon during diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis is inflammation of the diverticula, small pouches that develop along the walls of the intestine and colon. Diverticulitis is common with aging. Most people will develop diverticula, but only a small percentage will experience diverticulitis.
When one of the diverticula becomes inflamed or infected, the tissue around it swells, and the area becomes painful. The inflammation stays localized in uncomplicated diverticulitis (the more common form). With complicated diverticulitis (the less common form), the inflammation may lead to an abscess or tiny tear in the intestine or colon.
Why your diet matters during flares and recovery
Because diverticulitis involves your digestive tract, what you eat greatly impacts how you feel during a flare and how well you recover afterward. Diet significantly affects the risk of developing diverticulitis. Risk factors for diverticulitis include a low-fiber diet, eating lots of red meat, and consuming a pro-inflammatory diet. When your diet is low in fiber, stool tends to be harder and moves more slowly through the body. This may increase pressure in the colon and contribute to diverticula forming or becoming inflamed.
Diet matters for recovery, too: during an acute flare-up, high-fiber foods may aggravate your colon, contributing to pain and symptoms. Dietary modifications may be necessary during flare-ups to relieve symptoms and pain. However, once the flare resolves, it is essential to resume a high-fiber diet to reduce the risk of additional flares.
A diverticulitis diet mirrors an overall healthy eating pattern. Prioritize high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
What to Eat During a Diverticulitis Flare-Up
Little evidence supports dietary modifications during a flare-up. One small study found that consuming a regular diet during a flare-up was generally well-tolerated. Still, some people may wish to change their diet to ease the pain and symptoms associated with flare-ups.
Clear liquids to start with
A clear liquid diet is recommended during a diverticulitis flare-up. A clear liquid diet means consuming only liquids and see-through foods like broth or clear soups, plain gelatin, ice pops, and clear juices like apple or white grape.
A clear liquid diet is temporary. Most people report that a clear liquid diet provides greater comfort than continuing with foods. Follow a clear liquid diet for two to three days, or until pain improves.
When and how to reintroduce food
You should be able to eat more than a clear liquid diet after three to five days. If you’re unable to advance your diet after three to five days, contact your healthcare provider. Reintroduce solid food with low-fiber options that allow your gut to continue recovering.
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Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
Meet With an Online Registered Dietitian
95% of our patients meet with their dietitian for free.
Low-Fiber Foods to Eat in Early Recovery
It is often recommended to eat a low-fiber diet for a short time following a bout of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet consists of easy-to-digest foods that give your gut more time to recover. The body does not digest fiber. Instead, bacteria in the colon ferment it, sometimes causing gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort—feelings you may not want when already experiencing abdominal pain.
What makes a food low-fiber and easy to digest?
Low-fiber foods contain minimal amounts of indigestible carbohydrates. Natural low-fiber foods tend to be white or refined, such as rice, pasta, or white bread. Cooked vegetables and fruit may also be included in a low-fiber diet. Cooking breaks down the indigestible starches in raw fruits and vegetables, making them easier to digest.
Dairy, animal proteins, and seafood do not contain fiber. Still, they may be challenging to tolerate immediately after diverticulitis due to the fat content or lactose in dairy.
A low-fiber diet translates to 10 to 15 grams of fiber per day. Continue with a low-fiber diet until symptoms resolve.
Sample post-flare day of eating
A day of eating a low-fiber diet may look like:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, two slices of white toast with seedless jelly, and tea.
Lunch: Plain yogurt with skinless, roasted pears.
Dinner: Baked or grilled white fish (cod or tilapia) or skinless chicken breast with well-cooked zucchini and carrots and a side of rice.
Snacks: Applesauce or a banana with a small handful of nuts
High-Fiber Foods to Add After Recovery
Following a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing diverticulitis.
Why fiber matters for preventing future flares
A fiber supplement is not a replacement for a quality, high-fiber diet. A supplement can provide additional support, but adjusting the overall diet and quality is essential to reduce future diverticulitis flares.
A high-fiber diet helps move food through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of contact time between food and the diverticula. Consuming a high-fiber diet supports healthy bowel movements and function.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend females consume 25 grams of fiber daily and males 38 grams. For reference, 25 grams of fiber looks like: ½ cup of shredded wheat cereal (6.2 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of raspberries (4 grams of fiber); a baked potato (3.9 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of cooked black beans (7.5 grams of fiber); and ½ cup of raw red bell pepper (1.5 grams of fiber) with one cup of cooked asparagus (2.9 grams of fiber).
H3: Start slow with fiber and stay hydrated
Too much fiber too quickly can adversely affect gut health, such as contributing to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Instead, slowly increase your fiber intake. Add one fiber-rich food to your diet each day.
Increase your water intake as you eat more fiber. Staying hydrated is essential to keep moving fiber-rich foods through your digestive system.
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Diverticulitis
Foods to limit or avoid with diverticulitis depend on the person. Limit fibrous foods like vegetables and red meat if they aggravate symptoms or are not well-tolerated.
What to skip during a flare
Limit the following foods until symptoms resolve:
Tough meat
Dried beans
Whole grains and high-fiber carbohydrates
Raw vegetables
Cooked spinach and greens, peas, corn, and vegetables with skin or seeds
Dried fruit, juice with pulp, fruit skins
What about seeds, nuts, and popcorn?
It was previously thought that nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds could get stuck in the diverticulum, resulting in diverticulitis. However, research proved this assumption false.People who regularly consume nuts, seeds, and popcorn are less likely to develop diverticulitis. Fruits with small seeds, like strawberries, are not associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Simple 3-Day Meal Plan for Diverticulitis Recovery
This is an example meal plan for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice or guidance. Your meal plan for diverticulitis recovery may look different.
Phase 1: Flare-up (Clear Liquid Day)
Foods suitable for a clear liquid diet include the following:
Plain water
Fruit juices without pulp (think grape, apple, or cranberry)
Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
Gelatin
Popsicles without pulp, yogurt, or fruit bits in them
Tea or coffee without milk
Sports drinks without color
Have a mix of these options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Phase 2–3: Recovery Days
Limit fiber until symptoms resolve. Fiber intake during recovery should be 10 to 15 grams per day compared to the generally recommended 28 plus grams of fiber.
Example meals during the first few days of recovery may look like the following:
Breakfast: Cream of wheat cooked with water or scrambled eggs
Lunch: Chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Plain baked chicken with mashed potatoes and cooked carrots
Snack: banana or applesauce
Note: This sample meal plan is for informational purposes only. Consult your provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes—especially during active flares.
Final Thoughts: Eat for Comfort Now, Build for Strength Later
Diverticulitis can be painful, but with dietary management, you can support your digestive system through flares and heal faster. Think “rest and gentle” during a flare, so clear liquids and low-fiber foods. As you recover, reintroduce fiber. A high-fiber diet is not only safe for diverticulitis but also beneficial for preventing future issues.
If you’d like personalized support in building an eating plan that works for your lifestyle and condition, you can connect with a Season Health dietitian.
Get started here: https://app.seasonhealth.com/patient/sign-up
FAQs
Q1: Can I eat fruit during a diverticulitis flare-up?
It depends on your pain, food tolerance, and healthcare provider’s recommendation. Bananas and applesauce may be gentler on your body during a flare. You may tolerate cooked or softened fruits better than raw fruit.
Q2: How soon can I return to a high-fiber diet?
Most people return to a high-fiber diet within three to five days after symptoms resolve. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or need additional support.
Low-Fiber Foods to Eat in Early Recovery
It is often recommended to eat a low-fiber diet for a short time following a bout of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet consists of easy-to-digest foods that give your gut more time to recover. The body does not digest fiber. Instead, bacteria in the colon ferment it, sometimes causing gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort—feelings you may not want when already experiencing abdominal pain.
What makes a food low-fiber and easy to digest?
Low-fiber foods contain minimal amounts of indigestible carbohydrates. Natural low-fiber foods tend to be white or refined, such as rice, pasta, or white bread. Cooked vegetables and fruit may also be included in a low-fiber diet. Cooking breaks down the indigestible starches in raw fruits and vegetables, making them easier to digest.
Dairy, animal proteins, and seafood do not contain fiber. Still, they may be challenging to tolerate immediately after diverticulitis due to the fat content or lactose in dairy.
A low-fiber diet translates to 10 to 15 grams of fiber per day. Continue with a low-fiber diet until symptoms resolve.
Sample post-flare day of eating
A day of eating a low-fiber diet may look like:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, two slices of white toast with seedless jelly, and tea.
Lunch: Plain yogurt with skinless, roasted pears.
Dinner: Baked or grilled white fish (cod or tilapia) or skinless chicken breast with well-cooked zucchini and carrots and a side of rice.
Snacks: Applesauce or a banana with a small handful of nuts
High-Fiber Foods to Add After Recovery
Following a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing diverticulitis.
Why fiber matters for preventing future flares
A fiber supplement is not a replacement for a quality, high-fiber diet. A supplement can provide additional support, but adjusting the overall diet and quality is essential to reduce future diverticulitis flares.
A high-fiber diet helps move food through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of contact time between food and the diverticula. Consuming a high-fiber diet supports healthy bowel movements and function.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend females consume 25 grams of fiber daily and males 38 grams. For reference, 25 grams of fiber looks like: ½ cup of shredded wheat cereal (6.2 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of raspberries (4 grams of fiber); a baked potato (3.9 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of cooked black beans (7.5 grams of fiber); and ½ cup of raw red bell pepper (1.5 grams of fiber) with one cup of cooked asparagus (2.9 grams of fiber).
H3: Start slow with fiber and stay hydrated
Too much fiber too quickly can adversely affect gut health, such as contributing to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Instead, slowly increase your fiber intake. Add one fiber-rich food to your diet each day.
Increase your water intake as you eat more fiber. Staying hydrated is essential to keep moving fiber-rich foods through your digestive system.
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Diverticulitis
Foods to limit or avoid with diverticulitis depend on the person. Limit fibrous foods like vegetables and red meat if they aggravate symptoms or are not well-tolerated.
What to skip during a flare
Limit the following foods until symptoms resolve:
Tough meat
Dried beans
Whole grains and high-fiber carbohydrates
Raw vegetables
Cooked spinach and greens, peas, corn, and vegetables with skin or seeds
Dried fruit, juice with pulp, fruit skins
What about seeds, nuts, and popcorn?
It was previously thought that nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds could get stuck in the diverticulum, resulting in diverticulitis. However, research proved this assumption false.People who regularly consume nuts, seeds, and popcorn are less likely to develop diverticulitis. Fruits with small seeds, like strawberries, are not associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Simple 3-Day Meal Plan for Diverticulitis Recovery
This is an example meal plan for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice or guidance. Your meal plan for diverticulitis recovery may look different.
Phase 1: Flare-up (Clear Liquid Day)
Foods suitable for a clear liquid diet include the following:
Plain water
Fruit juices without pulp (think grape, apple, or cranberry)
Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
Gelatin
Popsicles without pulp, yogurt, or fruit bits in them
Tea or coffee without milk
Sports drinks without color
Have a mix of these options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Phase 2–3: Recovery Days
Limit fiber until symptoms resolve. Fiber intake during recovery should be 10 to 15 grams per day compared to the generally recommended 28 plus grams of fiber.
Example meals during the first few days of recovery may look like the following:
Breakfast: Cream of wheat cooked with water or scrambled eggs
Lunch: Chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Plain baked chicken with mashed potatoes and cooked carrots
Snack: banana or applesauce
Note: This sample meal plan is for informational purposes only. Consult your provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes—especially during active flares.
Final Thoughts: Eat for Comfort Now, Build for Strength Later
Diverticulitis can be painful, but with dietary management, you can support your digestive system through flares and heal faster. Think “rest and gentle” during a flare, so clear liquids and low-fiber foods. As you recover, reintroduce fiber. A high-fiber diet is not only safe for diverticulitis but also beneficial for preventing future issues.
If you’d like personalized support in building an eating plan that works for your lifestyle and condition, you can connect with a Season Health dietitian.
Get started here: https://app.seasonhealth.com/patient/sign-up
FAQs
Q1: Can I eat fruit during a diverticulitis flare-up?
It depends on your pain, food tolerance, and healthcare provider’s recommendation. Bananas and applesauce may be gentler on your body during a flare. You may tolerate cooked or softened fruits better than raw fruit.
Q2: How soon can I return to a high-fiber diet?
Most people return to a high-fiber diet within three to five days after symptoms resolve. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or need additional support.
Low-Fiber Foods to Eat in Early Recovery
It is often recommended to eat a low-fiber diet for a short time following a bout of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet consists of easy-to-digest foods that give your gut more time to recover. The body does not digest fiber. Instead, bacteria in the colon ferment it, sometimes causing gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort—feelings you may not want when already experiencing abdominal pain.
What makes a food low-fiber and easy to digest?
Low-fiber foods contain minimal amounts of indigestible carbohydrates. Natural low-fiber foods tend to be white or refined, such as rice, pasta, or white bread. Cooked vegetables and fruit may also be included in a low-fiber diet. Cooking breaks down the indigestible starches in raw fruits and vegetables, making them easier to digest.
Dairy, animal proteins, and seafood do not contain fiber. Still, they may be challenging to tolerate immediately after diverticulitis due to the fat content or lactose in dairy.
A low-fiber diet translates to 10 to 15 grams of fiber per day. Continue with a low-fiber diet until symptoms resolve.
Sample post-flare day of eating
A day of eating a low-fiber diet may look like:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, two slices of white toast with seedless jelly, and tea.
Lunch: Plain yogurt with skinless, roasted pears.
Dinner: Baked or grilled white fish (cod or tilapia) or skinless chicken breast with well-cooked zucchini and carrots and a side of rice.
Snacks: Applesauce or a banana with a small handful of nuts
High-Fiber Foods to Add After Recovery
Following a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing diverticulitis.
Why fiber matters for preventing future flares
A fiber supplement is not a replacement for a quality, high-fiber diet. A supplement can provide additional support, but adjusting the overall diet and quality is essential to reduce future diverticulitis flares.
A high-fiber diet helps move food through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of contact time between food and the diverticula. Consuming a high-fiber diet supports healthy bowel movements and function.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend females consume 25 grams of fiber daily and males 38 grams. For reference, 25 grams of fiber looks like: ½ cup of shredded wheat cereal (6.2 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of raspberries (4 grams of fiber); a baked potato (3.9 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of cooked black beans (7.5 grams of fiber); and ½ cup of raw red bell pepper (1.5 grams of fiber) with one cup of cooked asparagus (2.9 grams of fiber).
H3: Start slow with fiber and stay hydrated
Too much fiber too quickly can adversely affect gut health, such as contributing to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Instead, slowly increase your fiber intake. Add one fiber-rich food to your diet each day.
Increase your water intake as you eat more fiber. Staying hydrated is essential to keep moving fiber-rich foods through your digestive system.
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Diverticulitis
Foods to limit or avoid with diverticulitis depend on the person. Limit fibrous foods like vegetables and red meat if they aggravate symptoms or are not well-tolerated.
What to skip during a flare
Limit the following foods until symptoms resolve:
Tough meat
Dried beans
Whole grains and high-fiber carbohydrates
Raw vegetables
Cooked spinach and greens, peas, corn, and vegetables with skin or seeds
Dried fruit, juice with pulp, fruit skins
What about seeds, nuts, and popcorn?
It was previously thought that nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds could get stuck in the diverticulum, resulting in diverticulitis. However, research proved this assumption false.People who regularly consume nuts, seeds, and popcorn are less likely to develop diverticulitis. Fruits with small seeds, like strawberries, are not associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Simple 3-Day Meal Plan for Diverticulitis Recovery
This is an example meal plan for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice or guidance. Your meal plan for diverticulitis recovery may look different.
Phase 1: Flare-up (Clear Liquid Day)
Foods suitable for a clear liquid diet include the following:
Plain water
Fruit juices without pulp (think grape, apple, or cranberry)
Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
Gelatin
Popsicles without pulp, yogurt, or fruit bits in them
Tea or coffee without milk
Sports drinks without color
Have a mix of these options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Phase 2–3: Recovery Days
Limit fiber until symptoms resolve. Fiber intake during recovery should be 10 to 15 grams per day compared to the generally recommended 28 plus grams of fiber.
Example meals during the first few days of recovery may look like the following:
Breakfast: Cream of wheat cooked with water or scrambled eggs
Lunch: Chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Plain baked chicken with mashed potatoes and cooked carrots
Snack: banana or applesauce
Note: This sample meal plan is for informational purposes only. Consult your provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes—especially during active flares.
Final Thoughts: Eat for Comfort Now, Build for Strength Later
Diverticulitis can be painful, but with dietary management, you can support your digestive system through flares and heal faster. Think “rest and gentle” during a flare, so clear liquids and low-fiber foods. As you recover, reintroduce fiber. A high-fiber diet is not only safe for diverticulitis but also beneficial for preventing future issues.
If you’d like personalized support in building an eating plan that works for your lifestyle and condition, you can connect with a Season Health dietitian.
Get started here: https://app.seasonhealth.com/patient/sign-up
FAQs
Q1: Can I eat fruit during a diverticulitis flare-up?
It depends on your pain, food tolerance, and healthcare provider’s recommendation. Bananas and applesauce may be gentler on your body during a flare. You may tolerate cooked or softened fruits better than raw fruit.
Q2: How soon can I return to a high-fiber diet?
Most people return to a high-fiber diet within three to five days after symptoms resolve. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or need additional support.
Low-Fiber Foods to Eat in Early Recovery
It is often recommended to eat a low-fiber diet for a short time following a bout of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet consists of easy-to-digest foods that give your gut more time to recover. The body does not digest fiber. Instead, bacteria in the colon ferment it, sometimes causing gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort—feelings you may not want when already experiencing abdominal pain.
What makes a food low-fiber and easy to digest?
Low-fiber foods contain minimal amounts of indigestible carbohydrates. Natural low-fiber foods tend to be white or refined, such as rice, pasta, or white bread. Cooked vegetables and fruit may also be included in a low-fiber diet. Cooking breaks down the indigestible starches in raw fruits and vegetables, making them easier to digest.
Dairy, animal proteins, and seafood do not contain fiber. Still, they may be challenging to tolerate immediately after diverticulitis due to the fat content or lactose in dairy.
A low-fiber diet translates to 10 to 15 grams of fiber per day. Continue with a low-fiber diet until symptoms resolve.
Sample post-flare day of eating
A day of eating a low-fiber diet may look like:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, two slices of white toast with seedless jelly, and tea.
Lunch: Plain yogurt with skinless, roasted pears.
Dinner: Baked or grilled white fish (cod or tilapia) or skinless chicken breast with well-cooked zucchini and carrots and a side of rice.
Snacks: Applesauce or a banana with a small handful of nuts
High-Fiber Foods to Add After Recovery
Following a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing diverticulitis.
Why fiber matters for preventing future flares
A fiber supplement is not a replacement for a quality, high-fiber diet. A supplement can provide additional support, but adjusting the overall diet and quality is essential to reduce future diverticulitis flares.
A high-fiber diet helps move food through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of contact time between food and the diverticula. Consuming a high-fiber diet supports healthy bowel movements and function.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend females consume 25 grams of fiber daily and males 38 grams. For reference, 25 grams of fiber looks like: ½ cup of shredded wheat cereal (6.2 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of raspberries (4 grams of fiber); a baked potato (3.9 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of cooked black beans (7.5 grams of fiber); and ½ cup of raw red bell pepper (1.5 grams of fiber) with one cup of cooked asparagus (2.9 grams of fiber).
H3: Start slow with fiber and stay hydrated
Too much fiber too quickly can adversely affect gut health, such as contributing to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Instead, slowly increase your fiber intake. Add one fiber-rich food to your diet each day.
Increase your water intake as you eat more fiber. Staying hydrated is essential to keep moving fiber-rich foods through your digestive system.
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Diverticulitis
Foods to limit or avoid with diverticulitis depend on the person. Limit fibrous foods like vegetables and red meat if they aggravate symptoms or are not well-tolerated.
What to skip during a flare
Limit the following foods until symptoms resolve:
Tough meat
Dried beans
Whole grains and high-fiber carbohydrates
Raw vegetables
Cooked spinach and greens, peas, corn, and vegetables with skin or seeds
Dried fruit, juice with pulp, fruit skins
What about seeds, nuts, and popcorn?
It was previously thought that nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds could get stuck in the diverticulum, resulting in diverticulitis. However, research proved this assumption false.People who regularly consume nuts, seeds, and popcorn are less likely to develop diverticulitis. Fruits with small seeds, like strawberries, are not associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Simple 3-Day Meal Plan for Diverticulitis Recovery
This is an example meal plan for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice or guidance. Your meal plan for diverticulitis recovery may look different.
Phase 1: Flare-up (Clear Liquid Day)
Foods suitable for a clear liquid diet include the following:
Plain water
Fruit juices without pulp (think grape, apple, or cranberry)
Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
Gelatin
Popsicles without pulp, yogurt, or fruit bits in them
Tea or coffee without milk
Sports drinks without color
Have a mix of these options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Phase 2–3: Recovery Days
Limit fiber until symptoms resolve. Fiber intake during recovery should be 10 to 15 grams per day compared to the generally recommended 28 plus grams of fiber.
Example meals during the first few days of recovery may look like the following:
Breakfast: Cream of wheat cooked with water or scrambled eggs
Lunch: Chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Plain baked chicken with mashed potatoes and cooked carrots
Snack: banana or applesauce
Note: This sample meal plan is for informational purposes only. Consult your provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes—especially during active flares.
Final Thoughts: Eat for Comfort Now, Build for Strength Later
Diverticulitis can be painful, but with dietary management, you can support your digestive system through flares and heal faster. Think “rest and gentle” during a flare, so clear liquids and low-fiber foods. As you recover, reintroduce fiber. A high-fiber diet is not only safe for diverticulitis but also beneficial for preventing future issues.
If you’d like personalized support in building an eating plan that works for your lifestyle and condition, you can connect with a Season Health dietitian.
Get started here: https://app.seasonhealth.com/patient/sign-up
FAQs
Q1: Can I eat fruit during a diverticulitis flare-up?
It depends on your pain, food tolerance, and healthcare provider’s recommendation. Bananas and applesauce may be gentler on your body during a flare. You may tolerate cooked or softened fruits better than raw fruit.
Q2: How soon can I return to a high-fiber diet?
Most people return to a high-fiber diet within three to five days after symptoms resolve. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or need additional support.
Low-Fiber Foods to Eat in Early Recovery
It is often recommended to eat a low-fiber diet for a short time following a bout of diverticulitis. A low-fiber diet consists of easy-to-digest foods that give your gut more time to recover. The body does not digest fiber. Instead, bacteria in the colon ferment it, sometimes causing gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort—feelings you may not want when already experiencing abdominal pain.
What makes a food low-fiber and easy to digest?
Low-fiber foods contain minimal amounts of indigestible carbohydrates. Natural low-fiber foods tend to be white or refined, such as rice, pasta, or white bread. Cooked vegetables and fruit may also be included in a low-fiber diet. Cooking breaks down the indigestible starches in raw fruits and vegetables, making them easier to digest.
Dairy, animal proteins, and seafood do not contain fiber. Still, they may be challenging to tolerate immediately after diverticulitis due to the fat content or lactose in dairy.
A low-fiber diet translates to 10 to 15 grams of fiber per day. Continue with a low-fiber diet until symptoms resolve.
Sample post-flare day of eating
A day of eating a low-fiber diet may look like:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, two slices of white toast with seedless jelly, and tea.
Lunch: Plain yogurt with skinless, roasted pears.
Dinner: Baked or grilled white fish (cod or tilapia) or skinless chicken breast with well-cooked zucchini and carrots and a side of rice.
Snacks: Applesauce or a banana with a small handful of nuts
High-Fiber Foods to Add After Recovery
Following a high-fiber diet is associated with a reduced risk of developing diverticulitis.
Why fiber matters for preventing future flares
A fiber supplement is not a replacement for a quality, high-fiber diet. A supplement can provide additional support, but adjusting the overall diet and quality is essential to reduce future diverticulitis flares.
A high-fiber diet helps move food through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of contact time between food and the diverticula. Consuming a high-fiber diet supports healthy bowel movements and function.
The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend females consume 25 grams of fiber daily and males 38 grams. For reference, 25 grams of fiber looks like: ½ cup of shredded wheat cereal (6.2 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of raspberries (4 grams of fiber); a baked potato (3.9 grams of fiber) with ½ cup of cooked black beans (7.5 grams of fiber); and ½ cup of raw red bell pepper (1.5 grams of fiber) with one cup of cooked asparagus (2.9 grams of fiber).
H3: Start slow with fiber and stay hydrated
Too much fiber too quickly can adversely affect gut health, such as contributing to bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Instead, slowly increase your fiber intake. Add one fiber-rich food to your diet each day.
Increase your water intake as you eat more fiber. Staying hydrated is essential to keep moving fiber-rich foods through your digestive system.
Foods to Limit or Avoid with Diverticulitis
Foods to limit or avoid with diverticulitis depend on the person. Limit fibrous foods like vegetables and red meat if they aggravate symptoms or are not well-tolerated.
What to skip during a flare
Limit the following foods until symptoms resolve:
Tough meat
Dried beans
Whole grains and high-fiber carbohydrates
Raw vegetables
Cooked spinach and greens, peas, corn, and vegetables with skin or seeds
Dried fruit, juice with pulp, fruit skins
What about seeds, nuts, and popcorn?
It was previously thought that nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds could get stuck in the diverticulum, resulting in diverticulitis. However, research proved this assumption false.People who regularly consume nuts, seeds, and popcorn are less likely to develop diverticulitis. Fruits with small seeds, like strawberries, are not associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.
Simple 3-Day Meal Plan for Diverticulitis Recovery
This is an example meal plan for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice or guidance. Your meal plan for diverticulitis recovery may look different.
Phase 1: Flare-up (Clear Liquid Day)
Foods suitable for a clear liquid diet include the following:
Plain water
Fruit juices without pulp (think grape, apple, or cranberry)
Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
Gelatin
Popsicles without pulp, yogurt, or fruit bits in them
Tea or coffee without milk
Sports drinks without color
Have a mix of these options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Phase 2–3: Recovery Days
Limit fiber until symptoms resolve. Fiber intake during recovery should be 10 to 15 grams per day compared to the generally recommended 28 plus grams of fiber.
Example meals during the first few days of recovery may look like the following:
Breakfast: Cream of wheat cooked with water or scrambled eggs
Lunch: Chicken noodle soup
Dinner: Plain baked chicken with mashed potatoes and cooked carrots
Snack: banana or applesauce
Note: This sample meal plan is for informational purposes only. Consult your provider or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes—especially during active flares.
Final Thoughts: Eat for Comfort Now, Build for Strength Later
Diverticulitis can be painful, but with dietary management, you can support your digestive system through flares and heal faster. Think “rest and gentle” during a flare, so clear liquids and low-fiber foods. As you recover, reintroduce fiber. A high-fiber diet is not only safe for diverticulitis but also beneficial for preventing future issues.
If you’d like personalized support in building an eating plan that works for your lifestyle and condition, you can connect with a Season Health dietitian.
Get started here: https://app.seasonhealth.com/patient/sign-up
FAQs
Q1: Can I eat fruit during a diverticulitis flare-up?
It depends on your pain, food tolerance, and healthcare provider’s recommendation. Bananas and applesauce may be gentler on your body during a flare. You may tolerate cooked or softened fruits better than raw fruit.
Q2: How soon can I return to a high-fiber diet?
Most people return to a high-fiber diet within three to five days after symptoms resolve. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns or need additional support.
