Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition of the diverticula, or pouches, that develop along the length of the GI tract. The most common cause of diverticulitis is through microbial infection, where the stomach and intestinal enzymes fail to eliminate bacteria carried by food or even endemic to the GI tract. As result, bacteria settle in these pouches and proliferate, leading to an immune response and inflammation. Early treatment of this condition is essential in preventing complications, both revolving around the GI tract and systemic.
There is certainly a role for conventional medicine to play; however, natural remedies have emerged as an effective measure to reduce and prevent diverticulitis, through enhancing gut health and efficient symptom management. It is always important to confer with a trusted medical professional about the use of nutraceuticals to ensure safe and effective use.
Symptoms
Diverticulitis may feel like an IBD flare-up, with a few noticeable differences:
Abdominal pain:
In both conditions, inflammation and abnormal bowel movements contribute to abdominal pain. However, whereas IBD leads to discomfort in a variety of places throughout the intestinal tract, diverticulitis abdominal pain typically appears on the lower left side and usually remains local to that area.
Fever and chills:
Unlike IBD, diverticulitis typically appears with fever and chills, which are symptomatic of an immune response taking place. This is the body’s reaction to infection and inflammation of the diverticula.
Nausea and vomiting:
Diverticulitis primarily affects the digestive system; therefore, nausea and vomiting, common symptoms of digestive dysfunction, are also expected with the onset of diverticulitis.
Bloating and loss of appetite:
Since digestion cannot commence as usual, bloating occurs both as a response to strain in the intestines and as part of the immune response. Loss of appetite is also common, typically in combination with nausea.
Bloody Stool:
In severe cases, diverticula can tear through pressure or strain, leading to blood appearing in poop. Depending on if this is from the diverticula or rectum, the color will vary from brownish-maroon to bright red, respectively.
Natural Treatment
The body is generally positioned to keep this condition under control. Through making small adjustments to daily life, treatment without the use of drugs or therapies can manage diverticulitis.
Natural supplements:
Compounds such as berberine and turmeric, which are part of Evinature’s DivertX nutraceutical formulated for diverticulitis, are helpful in treating diverticulitis and maintaining the strength and integrity of the gut lining. Berberine, also known as coptis, reduces gut inflammation and directly combats the proliferation of bacteria causing diverticulitis. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric root, is also known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, and has been used to success to manage symptoms of diverticulitis.
Hydration:
Making sure that you are adequately hydrated is vital for maintaining digestive function. Dehydration is linked to constipation and food remaining too long in the intestine, which may contribute to or worsen diverticulitis symptoms. Aiming for a healthy 6-8 cups of water a day, in addition to water intake from other sources such as foods and herbal teas with high concentrations of water, helps the body to better regulate the mucosal layer and protect against harmful gut bacteria.
Diet and Exercise:
Before a diverticulitis flare-up, consuming fiber-rich foods assists in regulating bowel movements and reduce intestinal strain. However, during a flare-up or while experiencing inflammation, a liquid diet gives your gut the rest it needs to heal and recover. Additionally, adequate exercise on a consistent basis improves blood circulation and digestion, further preventing diverticular flare-ups.
Probiotics:
Research suggests the probiotics, or foods containing specific bacteria such as Lactobacillus can assist in managing the symptoms of diverticulitis. These bacteria have demonstrated that their presence in the gut microflora restores balance in the intestinal ecosystem and prevents the extended proliferation of other bacteria in quantities that impact digestion. For diverticulitis patients with bacterial infections, consuming probiotics may aid in maintaining gut function and integrity.
Conventional Medical Approaches
The previous section highlights the benefits of natural medicine; however, in the case of moderate-to-severe diverticulitis, medical treatment for diverticulitis is essential and saves lives.
Antibiotic therapy:
In the case of diverticulitis caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics such as amoxicillin may be prescribed to reduce the bacterial load and consequent inflammation. If antibiotics are prescribed, it is vital to take the entire course of treatment, especially in the case of diverticulitis, to avoid cultivating anti-biotic resistant strains and remove the possibility of complications.
Pain Management:
Medications such as acetaminophen can be prescribed to reduce pain associated with diverticulitis. Acetaminophen especially contains an antihistamine agent that reduces inflammation, cutting off the pain at the source.
Surgical Intervention:
Diverticulitis can also be caused by mechanical obstruction of the bowel, leading to severe pain and inflammation (and in severe cases, tears lead to the appearance of blood in stool.) In these cases, surgery might be needed to correct the anatomical structure of the bowel or intestine to support digestive function.
Hospitalization:
In severe cases, hospitalization is needed both for treatment and observation. High fevers, resistant infections, high levels of pain, or cases requiring surgery all may lead to a stay in a local medical facility to ensure proper healing and recovery.
Summary
It is important to understand the options for treatment of diverticulitis, including Evinature’s DivertX nutraceutical. The symptoms of this condition can be managed well through natural medicine and healthy lifestyle choices, and conventional medicine plays a role in addressing more severe cases. If you think you may be suffering from diverticulitis, consult your doctor for a screening and consultation.
Summer Pitocchelli-Schwartzman
