Are beans bad for diverticulitis?

If you have diverticulitis, a digestive disease that affects the colon and causes inflammation in small pouches lining it, you may be wondering if beans are bad for your condition. Well, the answer is not black or white – some types of beans can be harmful while others may offer health benefits to people with diverticulitis.

In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about beans and diverticulitis. From what are the best types of beans to how much should one eat per day; read on!

What Are Diverticula?

Diverticula are small pockets that form along the lining of any hollow organ in our body. In case of diverticular disease, these pouches develop in the colon (large intestine). They can become inflamed and infected leading to pain and other symptoms.

Causes Of Diverticular Disease

The exact cause of this digestive disorder remains unknown but several factors appear to play a role including:

  • Age
  • Genetics
  • Diet low in fiber/poor diet
  • Lack of exercise
  • Sedentary lifestyle

Note: Surgery is required as treatment when cases reach an advanced stage

Relationship Between Beans & Diverticular Disease

Beans are part of legume family which also includes peas, lentils etcetera. Traditionally they have been considered problematic for people suffering from recurring episodes caused by diverticular diseases.

This myth originated because doctors had recommended avoiding food that contains high amounts roughage- think nuts and whole grains- as patients would experience discomfort upon consumption If your daily diet doesn’t contain enough fiber then consuming high fiber foods like canned baked beans will certainly make matters worse.

The following section delves deeper into various types of beans whether they worsen symptoms or alleviate them among individuals with diverculiar ailments

Which Types Of Beans Should You Avoid If Have Diverticular Disease?

While it’s true that some varieties of beans can irritate diverticula and cause flair-ups, this isn’t true across the board.

If you have a history of diverticulitis and want to enjoy bean-y meals, there are certain types to watch out for like:

  • Baked Beans

Baked beans contain molasses or added sugar making it harmful for people with conditions such as diabetes.

  • Refried Beans

Refried beans are made from cooked and mashed pinto/black/ navy beans mixed in pork fat which is not recommended if you have heart ailment concerns due to increased levels of cholesterol in your body.

Which Types Of Beans Are Safe To Consume In Case Of Diverticular Disease?

On the flip side, no need for people with diverticulitis to give up all legumes entirely! In fact, many types actually help alleviate symptoms when consumed in moderation including,

  • Black Bean
    These little legume wonders might be effective in reducing unpleasant digestive side effects caused by bowel inflammation!

Additionally, black kidney/kidney/pinto/navy may help lower inflammation markers like C-Reactive Protein (CRP) so they’re great options too

How Much Fiber Should Be Consumed Daily?

Before understanding what amount was ideal daily why don’t we examine fiber’s overall benefits:

Fiber helps support healthy digestion while stabilizing blood sugar levels- additonally it also promotes stool regularity. For these reasons alone; sufficient intake should be advocated even beyond its role regarding preventing/exacerbating chronic illnesses or other conditions.

Generally speaking; adult males younger than age 50 require fibrous diets totaling a minimum 38 grams per day,while women require at least 25 grams daily during their reproductive years

For those above fifty; men need around than 30g/day whilst postmenopausal females must aim at reaching a value of 21g/day.

(Note that incorporating moderate amounts of high-fiber foods may lead to flatulence and gas production)

Final Thoughts

In summary: If you have diverticulitis, consuming certain varietiesof beans regularly as part of your daily diet should pose no issue. Legumes like black beans assist in reducing inflammation markers while other types offer filling dietary fiber. Moderation is key; keep the consumption within the recommended limits (per primary care specialist’s advice) However it’s suggested for individuals getting their bean fix from tinned options, be aware and cautious about added sugars or preservatives accompanying these food products!

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