Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis Causes

Diverticulosis is thought to be caused by increased pressure on the intestinal wall from inside the intestine.

• As the body ages, the outer layer of the intestinal wall thickens. This causes the open space inside the intestine to narrow. Stool (feces) moves more slowly through the colon, increasing the pressure.
  
  
• Hard stools, such as those produced by a diet low in fiber or slower stool "transit time" through the colon, can further increase pressure.
  
  
• Frequent, repeated straining during bowel movements also increases pressure and contributes to formation of diverticula.

Diverticulosis in developed countries is blamed largely on the typical diet, which is low in fiber.

• Fiber is found in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes (dried beans, peas, and lentils).
  
  
• There are 2 types, soluble (dissolves in water) and insoluble.
  
  
• Soluble fiber forms a soft gel-like substance in the digestive tract.
  
  
• Insoluble fiber passes through the digestive tract nearly unchanged.
  
  
• Both are necessary to keep stool soft and moving easily through the digestive tract.
  
  
• This is how fiber prevents constipation.