Ayurvedic Treatment for Diverticulitis
Is Swelling in Digestive System?
Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is a condition that occurs when diverticula—small, bulging pouches that can form in the wall of the colon—become inflamed or infected. It typically affects older adults and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to more severe complications.
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Causes, Symptoms, Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Diverticulitis
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Causes of Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis develops when diverticula (the small pouches) in the large intestine (colon) become infected or inflamed. The exact cause of diverticulitis is not entirely understood, but several factors contribute to its development:
Weak spots in the colon wall:
Diverticula form in weak areas of the colon wall where the inner lining pushes through, creating pouches. Over time, these areas can become inflamed or infected.
Straining during bowel movements:
Straining due to constipation or prolonged periods of high pressure in the colon can lead to the formation of diverticula. This puts stress on weak spots in the colon wall, leading to the development of pouches.
Low-fiber diet:
Low-fiber diets contribute to constipation, which increases pressure on the colon and can encourage the formation of diverticula.
Aging:
Diverticulitis is more common in people over the age of 40, and the risk increases with age, likely due to long-term pressure on the colon.
Obesity:
People with obesity are more prone to developing diverticular disease, including diverticulitis, due to increased pressure on the colon.
Lack of physical activity:
A sedentary lifestyle is associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis, likely due to its effects on digestive health and bowel regularity.
Medications:
Some medications, such as NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), may increase the risk of diverticulitis, as they can lead to digestive tract irritation.
Genetics:
A family history of diverticulitis can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
The symptoms of diverticulitis can vary from mild to severe. In some cases, the condition may be asymptomatic, especially when diverticula are not inflamed or infected. Common symptoms include:
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Abdominal Pain:
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Typically, left lower abdominal pain is the most common symptom, although it can occur anywhere in the abdomen.
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The pain is often described as sharp or crampy and may worsen after eating or during bowel movements.
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Fever:
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An elevated temperature is a common sign of infection, indicating the presence of diverticulitis.
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Changes in Bowel Habits:
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Diarrhea or constipation are common signs of diverticulitis.
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Some individuals may experience alternating bowel habits (both diarrhea and constipation).
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Nausea and Vomiting:
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This occurs in some cases, especially when the infection becomes more severe or leads to complications.
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Tenderness in the Abdomen:
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The abdomen may feel sensitive or tender when touched, especially in the area where the diverticulitis is located.
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Bloating:
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Abdominal bloating or a feeling of fullness can accompany diverticulitis, particularly during flare-ups.
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Blood in Stool:
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In some cases, blood in the stool (bright red or dark) may occur due to irritation or infection of the diverticula.
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This can also indicate a more severe complication, such as a perforation or bleeding.
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Diet for Diverticulitis
Diet plays an important role in managing diverticulitis, both during flare-ups and as part of a prevention strategy. Fiber intake is especially crucial, and dietary adjustments depend on the severity of the condition.
During an Acute Diverticulitis Flare-Up (When symptoms are active):
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The goal during a flare-up is to rest the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and avoid irritating the colon.
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Clear Liquid Diet:
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For the first 1–2 days during a flare-up, a clear liquid diet may be recommended to allow the colon to heal.
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Clear liquids include:
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Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
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Apple juice (without pulp)
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Tea or coffee (without cream or sugar)
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Clear soups or strained fruit juices.
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Gradual Transition to Low-Fiber Foods:
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After the initial flare-up subsides, low-fiber foods are typically recommended until inflammation decreases. These include:
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Refined grains (white bread, white rice)
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Cooked vegetables (without seeds or skins)
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Plain pasta or cereals
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Low-fiber fruits like bananas or applesauce.
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Lifestyle Tips:
Once the acute symptoms resolve, transitioning to a high-fiber diet is crucial to prevent future flare-ups and promote digestive health.
Increase Fiber Gradually:
Fiber is essential for healthy bowel function and preventing constipation, which can lead to diverticulitis flare-ups.
Aim for 25–30 grams of fiber per day (for adults), focusing on soluble fiber (easier on the digestive system) and insoluble fiber (promotes regular bowel movements).
Good fiber sources include:
Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)
Fruits (apples, pears, berries, bananas)
Vegetables (carrots, spinach, broccoli, zucchini)
Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas)
Nuts and seeds (in moderation).
Avoid Processed Foods:
Limit intake of processed and junk foods, which are often low in fiber and high in fats, sugar, and salt.
Choose whole foods and unprocessed grains for better digestive health.
Probiotics:
Incorporating probiotic-rich foods can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for managing diverticulitis.
Include foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi.
Small, Frequent Meals:
Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals can ease the digestive process and reduce pressure on the intestines.
Multiple Consultation Options
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Approach for Diverticulitis
PDR - Our Treatment Strategy
Prevention
Preventive dietary modifications (high fiber, low processed foods), regular exercise, hydration, and stress management are key to preventing diverticulitis.
Detoxification
Panchakarma therapies (Virechana, Basti, Vamana) and herbal remedies (Triphala, Guggulu) help clear toxins, reduce inflammation, and restore digestive balance. Hydration and detox teas support the detoxification process.
Revival
After detoxification, healing foods (Khichdi, soups, broths), probiotics, and herbs like Ashwagandha and Amalaki help restore digestive strength and intestinal health. Gentle stimulation of Agni, oil massage, and relaxation techniques support long-term healing and prevent future flare-ups.
Treatments and Panchakarma
How Treatments Benefited in Disease
Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis)
Vamana involves induced vomiting using herbal preparations. This process is aimed at clearing excess Kapha and Ama (toxins) from the stomach and upper digestive tract, improving digestion and metabolism.
When used: This is often done when Kapha predominates in the digestive system, leading to sluggish digestion, gas, and bloating.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Helps in clearing Ama (toxins) accumulated due to improper digestion.
Stimulates digestion, which may be sluggish in diverticulitis.
Helps remove toxins that can irritate the intestinal lining and cause inflammation.
Virechana (Purgation Therapy)
Virechana involves the use of medicated herbal purgatives to clear Pitta (bile) and Ama from the gastrointestinal tract.
When used: This is often indicated when Pitta is aggravated, leading to inflammation, infection, and heat in the digestive system.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Helps to eliminate toxins from the intestines, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Relieves constipation, which is a common factor contributing to diverticulitis.
Improves digestion and absorption by promoting the movement of vata in the digestive tract.
Basti (Medicated Enema)
Basti is one of the most important therapies in Panchakarma for treating digestive disorders, including diverticulitis. It involves the introduction of medicated oils or herbal decoctions into the rectum.
When used: This therapy is particularly useful for balancing Vata, as it helps lubricate the intestines, ease constipation, and soothe inflammation.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Promotes healthy bowel movements by hydrating the colon, easing constipation, and improving the elimination of waste.
Helps reduce inflammation and pain in the colon.
Lubricates the intestines and prevents the formation of further diverticula.
Strengthens the intestinal lining, aiding in the healing process of any existing diverticula.
Swedana (Herbal Steam Therapy)
Swedana is a therapy that involves steam created from herbal decoctions. The steam is applied to the body, and it helps open up the pores and promotes the elimination of toxins.
When used: Swedana is typically used when Ama is accumulated in the body and to relieve Vata imbalances.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Relieves stiffness and inflammation in the abdominal region.
Promotes detoxification by opening the pores and allowing toxins to be excreted.
Soothes abdominal discomfort and pain due to the relaxation of muscles and tissues.
Nasya (Nasal Therapy)
Nasya involves the administration of medicated oils or herbal powders into the nostrils. It is used to clear blockages in the head, sinuses, and respiratory system.
When used: Nasya is typically used to balance Vata and Pitta, which can affect the digestive system.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Helps to clear toxins from the head and upper respiratory system, which can have a direct impact on digestion.
Clears excess mucus from the sinus area, which indirectly helps reduce any systemic inflammation that could contribute to diverticulitis.
Reduces stress, which is important because stress can aggravate digestive issues.
Snehana (Oleation Therapy)
Snehana involves the internal and external use of medicated oils. The oils are consumed orally or applied to the skin to balance the doshas, lubricate tissues, and promote detoxification.
When used: Internal oleation is used to help cleanse the body, and external oleation is used for relaxation and to soothe inflammation.
Benefits for Diverticulitis:
Soothes inflammation in the intestines and colon by providing lubrication and reducing dryness (especially in Vata imbalances).
Promotes better digestion by improving the function of the digestive tract.
Supports absorption of nutrients, which can be difficult for individuals with diverticulitis.
