Is there a natural cure for diverticulitis?

Is there a natural cure for diverticulitis?

Currently very little is known about the use of a natural cure for diverticulitis, though this article explores current thinking about the most promising alternative natural methods which may help ease the condition.

Diverticulitis is a digestive disease which involves the formation of pouches (diverticula) within the bowel wall. Diverticulitis occurs when one of these pouches becomes inflamed.

The cause of diverticulitis is unknown. A high-fibre diet and increased frequency of bowel movements are associated with a greater risk of diverticulitis.

Seeds, corn, and nuts were previously thought by many health care professionals to potentially irritate diverticulitis. However, recent studies have found no evidence suggesting the avoidance of nuts and seeds prevent the progression of diverticulitis. Instead this research shows that they do not appear to aggravate diverticulitis, and apparently a higher intake of nuts and corn could in fact help to avoid diverticulitis in adult males. However, many doctors believe that seeds and nuts can get caught in the opening to a diverticulum and increase the chance of rupture and developing diverticulitis.

Most cases of simple, uncomplicated diverticulitis respond to the gentle approach of conservative therapy with bowel rest and, if bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics. People may be placed on a low residue diet. This low-fibre diet gives the colon adequate time to heal without needing to be overworked.

To date, very little is known about the use of alternative medicine in the treatment of diverticular disease. However, the following natural substances may help ease the condition:
Glucomannan
According to a study published in 2006, a combination of soluble fibre (like glucomannan) and poorly absorbed antibiotics (like rifaximin) may produce the best results when it comes to relieving symptoms and preventing acute diverticulitis. Glucomannan is a soluble, slimming and weight control supplement derived from the root of konjac, a plant that grows in Asia. It has been known as a medicinal food in Japan since the 6th century. Rifaximin is an antibiotic currently under investigation for the treatment of non-constipation irritable bowel syndrome. It fights bacterial infection only in the intestines.

Psyllium
In some cases, doctors recommend taking psyllium one to three times daily in order to treat diverticulitis. It is a soluble fibre used mainly as a laxative in products such as Metamucil. Psyllium is a natural source of mucilage, which is a type of fibre that helps trigger contraction of the colon walls.

Because of the potential complications associated with diverticular disease, it’s important to consult your physician before using glucomannan, psyllium, or any type of alternative medicine in the treatment of this condition. Although there is currently not a natural cure for diverticulitis, glucomannan and psyllium potentially offer natural ways to ease the condition.