Diverticular Disease: A Common Problem

A discussion by
Thomas N. Dewar, M.D., FACP
Fort Worth, Texas

Diverticular disease is a common problem in the United States. It is estimated that more than 25% of Americans over the age of 40 have diverticular disease and by age 70, at least half of the population has this condition. Physicians believe that the condition is largely due to a dificiency of roughage (fiber) in our diet.

What is Diverticular Disease?

The name comes from the Latin word diverticulum which means "small diverstion from the normal path." With diverticular disease, balloon-like sacs or pouches called diverticulae develop in the walls of the colon (large intenstine); these tiny pouches are formed when pressure causes the inside wall of the colon to bulge out through weak spots in the outer wall. Diverticulosis is a term indicating that the pouches are present, but there may be no symptoms, and many people may not know they have it. Diverticulitis, however, means that some of the pouches have become irritated or infected. The symptoms can include pain and fever. If you develop these symptoms, you should notify your doctor.

Why is the Colon a Problem Site?

The colon (large intestine) is the last 5 to 7 feet of the digestive tract and its primary function is to remove excess water from waste coming into it from the small intestine. The waste is pushed along by muscular waves so it can be expelled when it reaches the rectum. As we grow older, weak spots develop in the out muscular wall, making it possible for diverticulae to form when excess pressure builds up inside the colon.

How Do I Avoid Excess Pressure On The Colon?

Constipation is the number one cause of excess pressure in the colon. When the colon has to push dry waste material through, it must use more force than normal. Preventing constipation is the key to preventing diverticular disease. You should be discouraged from using harsh chemical laxative, since they only treat the symptoms of constipation and are habit forming. Laxatives do not provide the fiber needed for healthy bowel function. Most physicians agree that lack of fiber is one major cause of chronic constipation resulting in diverticular disease.

How Can Increased Fiber In The Diet Relieve This Condition?

Once diverticulae have formed, there is not way to reverse the process. However, adding fiber to the diet does promote regular bowel habits and helps control and minimize the disease. Foods rich in fiber such as bran cereals, whole wheat breads, a variety of beans, fresh fruits and vegetables help keep the stool soft and increase bulk, thereby reducing the amount of pressure needed to move the contents through the colon.

What Are Good Dietary Habits?

Eat at regular intervals, chewing your food well.
Drink plenty of water (8 glasses a day), milk, fruit and vegetable juices.
Exercise daily (walking, jogging, swimming, bicycling, etc.).
Be sensitive to your bowel function and avoid straining.

What Are Dietary Fiber Supplements?

To insure that you are getting enough fiber, you may want to include a natural fiber therapy to supplement your balanced diet. KONSYL® is highly recommended by physicians because of the concentrated level of fiber (6 grams psyllium per dose). KONSYL® is also sugar-free, low in sodium and completely natural (no harmful chemicals or additives). Just add you favorite juice to KONSYL® and shake. Psyllium is tasteless, so proper mixing is essential to palatability. You will find KONSYL® with juice to be pleasant tasting and very effective. The recommended dose is 1 to 3 rounded teaspoons daily or as directed by your physician. Always follow each does with at least 8 ounces of water.

NOTE: This information is provided in the interest of patient education by Konsyl Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Konsyl is available in all leading pharmacies without a prescription.