Diverticulitis is a painful and complex digestive condition. Western medicine often treats diverticulitis with antibiotics and recommendations for dietary adjustments, particularly increasing fiber intake.
However, with recurrence rates as high as 20 percent within five years, more patients are exploring complementary therapies like traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and modern dietary strategies, such as the low FODMAP diet. By blending these approaches, patients may find a more comprehensive way to manage diverticulitis and prevent flare-ups.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when small sacs (diverticula) in the colon’s wall become inflamed. These sacs develop when weak spots in the colon bulge outward, most commonly affecting the lower portion of the colon. When these pouches get infected, symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, fever, and sometimes blood in the stool.While diverticulitis is a serious condition that often requires medical intervention, diet plays a significant role in recovery and prevention. The best diet for diverticulitis has been debated, with conflicting opinions on how much fiber, probiotics, and red meat is appropriate.
The Role of Fiber and the FODMAP Diet
Traditionally, a high-fiber diet has been recommended to help prevent diverticulitis by promoting bowel regularity and preventing constipation. Research suggests that individuals eating 25 grams or more of fiber daily have a significantly lower risk of diverticulitis compared to those with lower intake. Yet, some patients find that a high-fiber diet worsens their symptoms during a flare-up, causing discomfort and bloating.Story continues below advertisement
This is where the low FODMAP diet comes into play. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols—difficult-to-digest short-chain carbohydrates. Initially developed for managing irritable bowel syndrome, the low FODMAP diet focuses on reducing those types of carbohydrates. Many high-fiber foods—such as wheat, onions, garlic, and certain fruits—are high in FODMAPs and can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals with diverticulitis.
Recent studies suggest that a low FODMAP diet may help reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence of diverticulitis by reducing digestive strain and symptoms like bloating, cramping, and gas. Foods such as onions, garlic, apples, cauliflower, and dairy are typically avoided, while foods such as oats, carrots, and blueberries are considered safe.
How Chinese Medicine Views Diverticulitis
In traditional Chinese medicine, diverticulitis is understood as a result of imbalances in the body’s qi (vital energy), particularly in digestive organs like the spleen and stomach. These imbalances can lead to qi and blood stagnation, causing inflammation and discomfort.The key goals of TCM treatment are to promote the free flow of qi and blood, clear excess heat and dampness, and strengthen the digestive organs. Some core concepts in TCM for treating diverticulitis include:
- Qi and Blood Stagnation: TCM identifies stagnation as a cause of inflammation and pain. Acupuncture and herbal formulas are used to move stagnated qi and blood to reduce symptoms.
- Heat and Dampness: Inflammation is often seen as excess heat in the body, while bloating and digestive disturbances are linked to dampness. Herbal formulas like Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis) and Cang Zhu (Atractylodes lancea) are prescribed to clear heat and resolve dampness.
- Spleen and Stomach Disharmony: Strengthening these organs with herbs such as Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora) and San Qi (Panax notoginseng) helps improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
Chinese Herbal Remedies and Acupuncture
Herbal formulas can be used to purge the intestines, followed by another formula to heal inflammation and sores and strengthen the spleen and intestines. TCM herbal remedies are highly personalized—your doctor will need to consider your history and symptoms before prescribing herbal formulas.
Some commonly used herbs for diverticulitis include:
- Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis): for its anti-inflammatory properties
- San Qi (Panax notoginseng): to promote blood circulation and alleviate pain
- Cang Zhu (Atractylodes lancea): to resolve dampness and strengthen digestion
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The Importance of Vitamin D and Probiotics
Emerging research shows that vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of diverticulitis flare-ups. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure or supplements can be important in managing the disease.In addition, probiotics have gained attention for their potential to maintain gut health. Strains like Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus paracasei have been shown to help alleviate diverticulitis symptoms and support recovery, particularly when used in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs like Mesalamine.
Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir may be beneficial, though supplementation is often recommended due to their higher concentration of beneficial bacteria.
Integrating the FODMAP Diet and TCM
Combining the low FODMAP diet with TCM’s holistic principles can offer a well-rounded approach to managing diverticulitis. For example, reducing inflammatory foods like red meat, increasing probiotic intake, and following TCM dietary advice to avoid greasy and spicy foods can help maintain digestive harmony and prevent flare-ups. Mild exercise, such as Tai Chi, and stress management techniques, such as meditation, can further support digestive health by improving qi flow and reducing tension.A Comprehensive Path to Wellness
Effectively managing diverticulitis requires a multifaceted approach. Western medical treatments, including antibiotics and surgery, may be necessary if it becomes life-threatening. However, incorporating acupuncture and herbal formulas, a low FODMAP diet, probiotics, and vitamin D supplementation may offer long-term relief and prevent recurrence. By focusing on symptom management and the underlying causes of inflammation, patients can achieve greater balance and improve their overall digestive health.Work with your primary care physician and a doctor of Chinese medicine to create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. With the right combination of therapies, diverticulitis can be managed effectively, improving quality of life and reducing risk of future flare-ups.
Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
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