What should you know about healthy diet for diverticulitis?

Diverticular disease involves small pouches in the bowel wall; diverticulitis refers to inflammation of a pouch. Food does not diagnose the cause of abdominal pain, and a diet that suits one person may worsen another person's bloating. After symptoms settle, fibre from vegetables, fruit, beans, and whole grains can help stool move more easily when increased gradually. During a suspected flare, pain, fever, vomiting, or reduced appetite may make a simpler plan appropriate until a clinician advises otherwise.

Change fibre slowly and drink fluids regularly unless a medical condition limits your intake. Add one new high-fibre food at a time, chew well, and notice how your bowel pattern responds. Avoid straining and address constipation rather than relying on restrictive food rules. If you have active abdominal pain, ask before making major dietary changes. [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/) can help tailor meals, while a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can assess symptoms.

Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen or rigid abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, fainting, or blood in stool. Fever with significant illness also needs prompt assessment. Do not treat a suspected flare with diet alone; the clinician may need to examine you and decide on tests or treatment.

Ask how much fibre is suitable now, whether your medicines affect constipation, and which foods or fluids should be adjusted during a flare. Clarify how soon to seek review if pain or bowel changes return.