Diet for people with diverticulitis

During active inflammation, abdominal discomfort, nausea or altered bowel movements can reduce tolerance for large or high-fibre meals. Some people are advised to choose fluids or softer foods temporarily; others can continue a more usual diet. Your clinician's assessment should guide the pace.

After the flare, a varied diet with fibre from plants may support regular stools. Increase it slowly so bloating does not become discouraging. Diverticulitis is different from uncomplicated diverticular disease, so advice from a previous episode may not fit a new one.

Choose smaller portions while pain is present and select foods that are gentle for you. Add soft vegetables, fruit, pulses and whole grains one at a time as appetite and bowel function return. Sip fluids unless another condition means your intake must be limited.

Keep a note of foods, bowel changes and pain so you can discuss patterns rather than relying on a long list of exclusions. Treat constipation with professional guidance; a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can help tailor prevention after recovery.

Contact a healthcare professional if symptoms are not settling or if you develop fever, worsening tenderness, vomiting, dehydration or new bleeding. Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, fainting, confusion or inability to keep fluids down. Do not assume a new episode is mild because an earlier one was.

Ask which foods and fluids are suitable now, when to increase fibre, and whether medicines or other conditions affect your plan. If bowel symptoms continue, ask about [Constipation](/symptoms/constipation/) and whether [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/) would be useful.