Recommended diet for diverticulitis

During a painful flare, some people tolerate clear fluids or light, low-fibre foods more easily for a short period. This should be guided by a clinician, especially if pain, vomiting or fever is present. As symptoms improve, foods can usually be reintroduced gradually according to comfort.

Once the flare has settled, a varied diet with fibre from vegetables, fruit, pulses and whole grains may support regular stools for some people. Fibre needs to rise gradually, with enough fluid, because a sudden increase can worsen bloating or constipation. Individual triggers differ.

Take small, frequent drinks and choose gentle foods you can keep down. Follow prescribed treatment and do not stop medicines because eating feels difficult without speaking to your clinician. Keep a note of pain, bowel movements, fever and foods tolerated.

After recovery, return to fibre slowly rather than removing whole food groups without a reason. If constipation continues, discuss a tailored plan through [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/). A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can check whether your symptoms fit [Diverticular Disease](/conditions/diverticular-disease/) and whether another cause needs consideration.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, faintness, heavy rectal bleeding, or fever with marked weakness. Contact a clinician promptly if pain does not settle, constipation becomes persistent, or you cannot pass stool or gas.

Ask what to eat during this episode, when to advance your diet, how much fluid is suitable, whether fibre or a bowel treatment is appropriate, and which warning signs require urgent review. Mention allergies, diabetes, kidney disease and any previous episodes.