Is Garlic Safe to Eat With Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition of the lower intestine 2. It is characterized by inflammation of portions of the intestine in combination with the formation of small pouches within the intestinal wall. These pouches are what are of concern for those suffering from diverticulitis. The usual diet remedy omits foods that contain nuts, seeds or skins of any kind due to the risk of these substances becoming lodged in the pouches, thereby creating an infection. Garlic is one of those foods that fits easily into the diet of someone with diverticulitis.

About Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is caused by many bouts of constipation and associated high pressure in the intestinal area. A diet low or lacking in fiber may cause diverticulitis. One role that fiber plays in our bodies is that of a natural stool softener. If our stool is soft, it has a much easier journey through the lower intestine, and the intestine requires much less pressure to push it out during a bowel movement.

Garlic

Garlic is in the same family as leeks, shallots and onions. They are all botanicals, and garlic has also been used in herbal treatments of various diseases. Garlic is a natural blood thinner. Therefore, it may lower lipid levels in the blood and blood pressure.

Consumption of Garlic

According to Kathleen Mahan, M.S., R.D., and Sylvia Escott-Stump, M.A., R.D., the recommended dosage of garlic for someone without any health conditions is 4 g, or 1 clove per day. If you have diverticulitis, you can safely consume that same amount. Remove the skin of the clove and mince the garlic thoroughly before ingesting it. Finely chopping the garlic minimizes the risk of it becoming lodged in the disordered part of the intestine. Garlic in powder form is also fine for you if you have diverticulitis.

Consumption Warnings

Mahan and Escott-Stump define overconsumption of garlic as more than 5 raw cloves per day or more than 20 g per day 1. This may lead to mild allergic reactions, dermatitis, flatulence or heartburn. The authors also recommend avoiding garlic if you are pregnant. If you are taking blood thinners such as warfarin, please consult your doctor before adding any form of garlic to your diet.