Can You Eat Celery & Blueberries If You Have Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis is a condition that occurs when the lining of your large intestine and colon begin to develop pouches that bulge out in the weak areas. While diverticulosis usually has no symptoms, over time these bulges become inflamed, irritated and painful. When painful symptoms develop your condition has become diverticulitis, according to the National Institutes of Health 1. The food you eat can have an impact on your condition. There are certain foods to avoid while you are suffering from an attack and these include fibrous foods like celery and blueberries.

Significance

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse reports that half of Americans over 40 have a diverticular disease. The condition is more common with age as half of all Americans 60 years and older are afflicted by the condition. Having diverticulosis can be painful and may even cause an infection, tear and bleeding of the lining.

Dietary Restrictions

Diverticulitis & Colitis Diet

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You may want to consider following certain dietary restrictions when you are experiencing diverticulosis. The idea behind a diverticulosis diet is to limit your food intake to soft, liquid and low fiber foods. Celery and blueberries both contain a significant amount of fiber, so they may not be the best choice for eating with diverticulosis. Limiting the fiber in your diet can help reduce the severity of your symptoms and improve your prognosis.

Celery and Blueberries

One cup of chopped, raw celery contains 1.6 grams of fiber. One cup of raw blueberries has 3.6 grams of fiber. If you wish to eat these foods, you can slowly phase them back in as your symptoms subside. Since most vegetables and fruits are considered to be high-fiber foods, including celery and blueberries, your doctor may recommend limiting these until your disease is under control.

Eating For Your Condition

Can You Eat White Rice With Diverticulitis?

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A high-fiber diet can be very beneficial for you and your digestive tract when your diverticulosis is being managed. A high-fiber diet can aid in the prevention of diverticulosis. When your disease is improved, try to incorporate as much fiber as you can. The American Diabetes Association reports that men should consume between 30 and 38 grams of fiber per day, and women should consume between 21 and 25 grams of fiber per day. Talk to your doctor to gain a better understanding of your dietary and fiber needs.