Best Probiotic For Diverticulitis, According to a Gastroenterologist

Diverticulitis is a condition characterized by inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that can form in the lining of the digestive tract, usually in the large intestine. 30% of adults over the age of 50 are thought to have Diverticulitis according to NIDDK.

Diverticulosis on the other hand is a digestive condition marked by the presence of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the walls of the colon or large intestine.

Probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms that, when consumed, support a healthy balance of gut bacteria and potentially provide various health advantages. Probiotics modify gut microbiota by introducing beneficial live microorganisms into the digestive system, which can improve symptoms of diverticulitis.

What Is Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis is a condition that it involves the development of small pouches in the digestive tract, known as diverticulosis. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, it leads to the condition called diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is characterized by symptoms such as inflammation in the colon, triggering more severe effects due to trapped bacteria. These pouches, or diverticula, form on the inner wall of the intestine and can cause complications. Treatment and management of diverticulitis involve dietary considerations and medical care.

Treatment of diverticulitis for mild cases, rest, dietary changes, and antibiotics are commonly recommended. Antibiotics are used to treat infection, though recent guidelines indicate they might not be necessary for very mild cases. A liquid diet is often advised to give the bowels time to heal, with a gradual transition to solid foods as symptoms improve.

More severe or recurring cases may require surgical intervention. Home treatment options include rest, a liquid diet, and antibiotics prescribed by a medical professional. Pain relief can be achieved with over-the-counter medications. In cases where diverticulitis doesn't respond to treatment or complications arise, surgery may be necessary, involving the removal of part of the colon. Some sources also suggest potential home remedies, including a liquid diet and strained fruit juices. It's important to consult a doctor for proper guidance and treatment.

What Does Diverticulitis Pain Feel Like?

The sensation of diverticulitis pain is that it typically manifests as sharp, cramp-like discomfort in the lower abdomen, specifically on the left side. This pain can be sudden and persistent, ranging from moderate to severe intensity. Additional symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. The discomfort often worsens during or after eating and can be alleviated by bowel movements or passing gas. Diverticulitis pain is commonly described as localized and may persist for several days.

What Does Poop Look Like With Diverticulitis?

Diverticulitis can lead to changes in bowel movements, with some common stool characteristics that look like narrow or pellet-like stools. In advanced or severe cases of diverticulitis, the large intestine may narrow, resulting in thin, narrow, or pellet-shaped stools. Diverticulitis symptoms may include bright red or maroon-colored stools, changes in stool odor, and variations in stool consistency, which can resemble characteristics of diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms are indicative of the impact diverticulitis can have on bowel movements and stool appearance.

Are Probiotics Helpful For Diverticulitis?

Yes, probiotics are helpful for Diverticulitis because they can modulate the gut microbiome. A 2016 study authored by E Lahner, assessed the effectiveness of probiotics in treating diverticular disease. It reviewed 11 relevant studies involving a total of 764 patients with diverticular disease and found Lactobacillus probiotics may lead to symptom improvement. Symptom improvement of diverticulitis refers to a noticeable alleviation or reduction in the severity of abdominal discomfort, pain, inflammation, and other associated signs experienced by individuals with the condition.

A 2022 study authored by MG Soliman, found that Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, either alone or in combination with amoxicillin, exhibited protective effects against acute diverticulitis. These effects were observed through multiple mechanisms, including the restoration of colonic antioxidant status, reduction of inflammation markers, mitigation of apoptosis, and decrease in aerobic bacterial counts.

Restoration of colonic antioxidant status signifies the process of returning antioxidant balance within the colon to its normal state, effectively countering oxidative stress and enhancing the body's defense against harmful free radicals and inflammation.

Reduction of inflammation markers in relation to diverticulitis refers to the decrease in measurable indicators of inflammation within the body, such as cytokines, enzymes, and proteins, which signifies a mitigation of the inflammatory response associated with diverticulitis.

Which Probiotic Is Best For Diverticulitis?

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics are best for Diverticulitis according to research. A 2021 study authored by A Piccioni, suggests that Lactobacilli, particularly Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium lactis, have shown promise in managing diverticular disease.

A 2022 study authored by V Ojetti, found that supplementation with Limosilactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 4659, along with bowel rest and fluids, led to a significant reduction in both blood and fecal inflammatory markers in patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis. Limosilactobacillus is a type of lactic acid bacteria genus formed in 2020 by splitting from Lactobacillus, with Limosilactobacillus reuteri.

Is Yakult Good For Diverticulitis?

Yes, yakult is good for Diverticulitis because it contains Lactobacillus Casei Shirota probiotics. A 2012 clinical trial aimed to investigate the potential of daily consumption of the probiotic Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) in the form of Yakult fermented milk to prevent acute episodes of diverticulitis or reduce their frequency.

Yakult is a brand of fermented milk beverage containing the probiotic strain Lactobacillus casei Shirota, known for its potential health benefits.

Is Yogurt Good For Diverticulitis?

Yes, yogurt can be beneficial for individuals with diverticulitis. Yogurt, particularly low-fat options like Greek yogurt, are considered a good for diverticulitis flare-ups according to Cleveland clinic.

Greek yogurt is a thick and creamy dairy product that results from straining regular yogurt to remove whey, creating a higher protein content.

Is Kefir Good For Diverticulitis?

Yes, kefir may be good for Diverticulitis because it contains beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria. A 2023 study authored by KN da Silva, found that kefir fermented milk beverage demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and potential protection against intestinal damage in a rat model of colitis.

This suggests that kefir's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties could be relevant to mitigating inflammation and damage in conditions like diverticulitis. Kefir is a fermented milk beverage known for its probiotic content and potential health benefits.

Can Anxiety Cause Diverticulitis?

Yes, there is a link between anxiety and diverticulitis according to research. A 2023 study authored by AJ Kaye, found that that diverticulitis patients with GAD had an increased risk of intestinal abscess and obstruction, potentially due to GAD's influence on gut microbiota and pharmacotherapy effects on gut motility.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry or anxiety about various aspects of life. Probiotics may offer potential benefits for anxiety by influencing gut-brain communication and modulating the gut microbiota, which could impact mental health.

Does Popcorn Cause Diverticulitis?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that foods like Popcorn can cause or worsen Diverticulitis. A 2008 study authored by y LL Strate, suggests that consumption of nuts, corn, and popcorn does not increase the risk of diverticulosis or its complications in men without known diverticular disease. It showed, higher intake of nuts and popcorn was associated with a reduced risk of diverticulitis.

Popcorn is a type of maize that, when heated, expands and puffs up to create a light and edible snack.

Are Antibiotics Necessary For Diverticulitis?

For uncomplicated cases of diverticulitis, Antibiotics often aren't needed according to an article by the NIH. It also found that, almost half of people who were previously treated with antibiotics went on to develop the Diverticulitis again several years later.

For complicated diverticulitis cases, antibiotics are typically used in hospital settings to control inflammation and prevent its spread. Surgery may be recommended if symptoms don't improve or serious complications arise.

Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut microbiota by suppressing beneficial bacteria and potentially leading to imbalances that may affect overall gut health according to a 2020 study authored by J Ramirez.