Other Proposed Treatments
- Fiber Supplements: Psyllium, Glucomannan , and Methylcellulose
Almost half of all Americans over the age of 60 develop diverticulosis: small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the colon. In most cases, these diverticula do not cause any discomfort. However, in perhaps 15% of people with diverticulosis, diverticula may become inflamed or infected. The result is a condition called diverticulitis. Symptoms of diverticulitis include pain, nausea, and sometimes fever.
It is thought that the main cause of diverticulosis is the relatively low-fiber diet consumed in developed countries. Treatment of diverticulitis includes dietary changes, antibiotics, and, sometimes, surgery.
Proposed Treatments for Diverticular Disease
Fiber supplements have shown promise for both preventing and treating diverticulosis and diverticulitis.
Common fiber supplements include psyllium, glucomannan , and methylcellulose.
Note: Use of fiber supplements during an active bout of diverticulitis is not advisable, because the colon needs to rest.
- Reviewer: EBSCO CAM Review Board
- Review Date: 07/2012 -
- Update Date: 07/25/2012 -