Typical diet to prevent diverticulitis

Over time, keep adding fiber to your diet by including high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. High-fiber foods may lower your chances of getting diverticulitis again. Drink lots of water to keep fiber moving through your digestive system.

If you don't get enough fiber from food, your healthcare professional may recommend a fiber supplement.

In the past, people with diverticula were told not to eat nuts, seeds and popcorn. The thinking at the time was that these foods could lodge in diverticula and inflame them, causing diverticulitis. Today, experts say that there's no evidence that those foods are harmful.

Along with eating a balanced diet, aim to get regular physical activity. Moderate exercise such as water aerobics or brisk walking is linked with gut health. If you're not active now, ask your healthcare professional to help you get started.