Diverticular disease and fibre: to restrict or not to restrict?

This article examines diverticular disease, a condition characterized by saclike protrusions (diverticula) in the colon, focusing on its dietary management with an emphasis on dietary fibre. It clarifies that diverticulosis (asymptomatic diverticula), diverticular disease (symptomatic diverticula), and diverticulitis (inflamed diverticula) are distinct clinical entities, with diverticulitis posing the greatest health risk. Contrary to earlier advice recommending fibre restriction and avoidance of nuts, seeds, popcorn, and corn, current evidence supports a high-fibre diet to reduce the risk of diverticula formation and diverticulitis, aligning with general healthy eating guidelines. The article also highlights that vigorous physical activity may lower diverticulitis risk, while the role of diet in managing diverticular disease symptoms remains unclear due to limited research.