Diverticula are little pockets that show up on the wall of your colon, like tiny air bubbles pushing outward, weakening the walls of your colon. (2020). This condition is swelling or inflammation in several of the diverticula. Where To Find The Freshest Zucchini Flowers In Long Island: A Guide, A Nutty And Nutritious Twist On Any Meal: Cracked Wheat Pilaf, Treat Your Guests To Luxury Coleslaw: An Easy Yet Indulgent Side Dish For Your Next Gathering. The effect of fiber on diverticulitis can vary from person to person. Limiting red and processed meat may also reduce risk and symptoms. Low-fat cheese and Greek yogurts are excellent for the gut. Scientists use genetic rewiring to increase lifespan of cells, Beyond amyloid and tau: New targets in developing dementia treatments, Napping longer than 30 minutes linked to higher risk of obesity and high blood pressure, Activity 'snacks' could lower blood sugar, complication risk in type 1 diabetes, In Conversation: Investigating the power of music for dementia. If the ingredients listed below are permitted, you can also consume raw or cooked Sour Cream, vegetable oils, and sauces made from them. If you dont get enough fiber in your diet, you can take fiber supplements as well. If you have IBS, avoid highly spiced or flavored salad dressings or those containing raw vegetables or pickles. Gut microbiota, metabolome and immune signatures in patients with uncomplicated diverticular disease. The stool may have more mucus than normal. If you ignore this severe condition, you could eventually need surgery to remove part of your colon and clean out the infection in your abdominal cavity. Coffee, like tea or soda, contains a high level of caffeine. The standard Western diet is often high in fat and sugar and low in fiber. When adding fiber to your diet, be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid constipation. Recommendations from the study included consuming no more than 51 grams (g) of red meat a day, eating about 23 g of dietary fiber daily, doing at least 2 hours of vigorous exercise each week, maintaining a moderate weight, and never smoking. Although these vegetables are high in fiber, they dont get digested completely in your small intestine. Dreher ML. Around 58 percent of people over age 60 have diverticulosis, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). When these partially digested foods arrive in your large intestine where it is processed, they will cause lots of gas and bloating. But there is insufficient evidence to determine their impact. WebIf your healthcare provider has given you the go-ahead, you can treat diverticulitis at home with: A liquid diet. Please see our Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, About | Cookie Policy | Editorial Policy | Contact | Do not sell my personal information |Cookie Settings. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 20202025 recommend a dietary fiber intake of 14 grams (g) per 1,000 calories. Some of those foods include: Heavy-on-stomach nuts and seeds High fatty meat or red meat Popcorn and corn in general Fruit and vegetable skins Heavy and complex carbohydrates Beans Pulses Greasy and spicy meals Consuming a high fiber diet may reduce the risk of diverticulitis and improve digestive health in general. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may decrease the risk. Power of Positivity uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience. Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the large intestine and can cause abdominal pain, cramping, fever, and bloating. Increasing fiber gradually over a few weeks can reduce gas, bloating, and cramping. You may experience gas and bloating as a result of consuming them. As some of these foods also contain beneficial fiber, a person should discuss their food choices and elimination with a healthcare professional before making drastic changes. You must listen to your healthcare provider and make the necessary dietary adjustments in order to manage your condition. Foods high in these nutrients include apples, figs, plums, garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables, beans and legumes, simple carbohydrates, and alcohol. Coleslaw May Not Be The Best Choice For Those With Diverticulitis by Sandi | Nov 13, 2022 | Side Dish Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the large intestine and
Diverticulitis: Can certain foods trigger an attack? - Mayo Clinic Some researchers suggest that a low FODMAP diet could prevent high pressure in the colon, which, in theory, could help people avoid or correct diverticulitis. These are small pockets that develop in the lining of the intestine. Brown rice is packed full of Vitamin B6, magnesium, selenium, and niacin. However, switching to easier-to-digest foods during a flare may help relieve symptoms. a fistula, which is an uncharacteristic tunnel linking two organs or an organ and the outside of the body, a blockage of the movement of food or stool through the intestines, beans and pulses, including navy beans, chickpeas, split peas, and lentils, fruits, including pears, avocados, apples, and prunes, vegetables, including artichokes, broccoli, green peas, potatoes, squash, and parsnips, apples, apricots, dried fruits, pears, peaches, dairy foods, including milks, yogurts, and cheeses. Studies show that eating a fiber-packed diet can help you manage diverticulitis flare-ups.
Diverticulitis diet: Foods to eat and avoid - Medical News Some veggies cause gas, so you should avoid them. The review reported that genetic factors account for about 50% of a persons susceptibility to the condition, though research still needs to identify genetic markers.
Can Eating Coleslaw Help With Diverticulitis? A Look At The While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for diverticulitis, some foods may help to ease symptoms and promote healing. Because diverticulosis and diverticulitis sound similar, its easy to confuse their meanings. Fats like butter, lard, and oils are best avoided although you may tolerate small amounts for cooking. Coleslaw is a popular dish made from shredded cabbage and carrots. Diets in the Western world are likely to exacerbate fat, sugar, and fiber deficiencies. Each person will have different dietary needs and sensitivities, so doctors recommend individualized professional guidance. When youre not having a diverticulitis flare-up, a high fiber diet can reduce the risk of flares and help keep the gut healthy. Colon surgeries are minimally invasive and performed by specialists at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay. But, at the moment, there is not enough good quality evidence to make recommendations. If you have diverticulitis, you may at first have diarrhea, bloating, or constipation. Certain foods with high roughage (insoluble fiber) may make you feel uncomfortable, such as corn, salads, nuts, and very seedy foods, but if you eat a lot of soluble fiber, you may feel more at ease. Diverticulosis may turn into a severe condition called diverticulitis. Think of sweet potatoes, carrots, or green beans for your optimal gut health. These foods are simple to digest in the intestines of people with diverticulitis, making them an excellent choice for meals. In severe cases, hospitalization is usually required. (2016).
Diverticular disease and diverticulitis - NHS However, those who eat more fiber What Vegetables Can You Eat With Diverticulitis? Another study published in the journal Gut looked at biological males in the U.S. The fiber in stool keeps it soft, allowing it to travel more easily through the colon. Can You Eat Peas With Diverticulitis Eat a lot of fiber-rich vegetables like green peas, broccoli, collard greens, baked potatoes (white and sweet), Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower to get more fiber in your diet. Following a low FODMAP diet has benefits for some people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Canned vegetables can be safe during a bout of diverticulitis, Dr. Truss says, as long as the veggies are skinless and well-cooked. What kind of soups can you eat with diverticulitis? Since fiber can soften your bodys waste material, softer stool passes through your intestines and colon more quickly and easily. According to recent research, there is no evidence that these foods increase the risk of diverticulitis. Diverticulosis may not cause symptoms for some people. When the flare-up is under control, slowly reintroduce fiber-rich vegetables into your diet to reduce the risk of developing a subsequent attack. Peanut Butter and Diverticulitis: Timing Is Key If You Want to Eat Nut Butters. Avoid all vegetables when you have diverticulitis. Vegetables are good for you; there's no denying that. But when you're having a diverticulitis flare-up, they can make matters worse. The good news is that, if you have diverticular disease, diet changes like avoiding vegetables can help you manage the condition and give you some relief. "During an attack or a flare of diverticulitis, you want to allow your [GI tract] to rest," Dr. Truss says. Tantalize Your Taste Buds With Main Street Grill Jamaican Coleslaw! It also stated that red meat consumption and a typical Western diet link to a higher risk of diverticulitis. They are great, lean sources of protein. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Diverticulitis is a condition of the digestive system in which small pouches form in the lining of the intestines and become inflamed or infected. If you want to eat these, enjoy them in only small amounts. Bleeding and diarrhea will go away after a few days if you consume small amounts of clear liquids. Your colon needs to get back to normal and you should be able to eat with no problems after this. By choosing the right ingredients and avoiding those that could be irritating, those with diverticulitis can enjoy a nutritious and delicious salad. Even though doctors may recommend avoiding high fiber foods during a flare, the NIDDK recommends regularly consuming a high fiber diet to reduce the risk of acute diverticulitis. General Surgery 36 years experience. During a diverticulitis flare-up you should avoid eating unpeeled fruits, raw vegetables, red meats or food that stimulates gas formation such as milk, eggs, beans, They differ in size and may show up anywhere along your colon, but theyre more apt to show up it the lower left-hand side of your colon, which is where the S-shaped curve of your colon exists. All About FODMAPs: Who Should Avoid Them and How? In conclusion, its best to ignore specific foods and simply consume a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Diverticulitis is a condition where small pouches in the intestine called diverticula become inflamed or infected. Avoiding these foods will help to reduce the severity of diverticulitis symptoms. Throw some into a salad to add a little crunch. (2016). Find ways to use spices like ginger or cinnamon, which add a natural sweetness to dishes. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and eating smaller meals more frequently can help manage symptoms. Diverticulitis has painful side effects. Generally, adults should aim to eat 30g of fibre a day. Diet and other lifestyle factors play an essential part in the development of diverticulitis. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Because of their low fiber content, tender cuts of unprocessed meat, poultry, and fish are all safe foods for diverticulitis patients. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and may increase colon contractions, which can be painful during a flare-up. Hypomania is Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that impairs memory and cognitive abilities, affects millions worl Bipolar 1 disorder, or manic-depressive illness, is a severe mental health condition. There are a whole lot of foods that are not suitable for a person suffering from active diverticulitis. Experts also say that it is OK to eat the seeds in tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, strawberries, and raspberries. Constipation prevention is also a benefit of this type of diet, as a risk factor for diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis Research shows that people who eat a Western-style diet (pizza, fast food, and sweets) tend to have more bouts of diverticulitis. This article explains what FODMAPs are and who should avoid them. Plain puddings, custards, tapioca, gelatin desserts, fruit whips, smooth ice cream, fruit ice, plain sherbet, yogurt, cake, and cookies are just a few examples. Because there are no guarantees that a food will cause an attack, a low-fiber diet may help to reduce the likelihood of one. The authors suggest that substituting red meat with poultry or fish may reduce risk. In the past, doctors would advise patients with diverticulitis to avoid certain foods that were thought to increase gut inflammation and worsen the condition. These foods include natural yogurt and fermented foods such as: People who have been taking antibiotics might consider adding these foods to their diet to help repopulate their gut with beneficial bacteria. Additionally, the mayonnaise and other creamy dressings used in coleslaw are high in fat and can irritate the digestive system further. This condition can be caused by an inflammation of the large intestines walls, resulting in cramps, diarrhea, constipation, and rectal bleeding. Gut-wrenching eggs and cheese, which are high in fiber, are good choices to avoid when suffering from diverticulitis. This means avoiding or limiting high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as substituting lower-fiber foods such as white rice, white bread, canned fruits and vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. Diverticulitis can be treated by consuming a low-fiber diet. Steam or oven roast your vegetables in olive oil with a dash of salt on top for flavor. swelling or inflammation in several of the diverticula. In the past, doctors recommended that people with diverticulitis follow a low fiber diet or a clear liquid diet. Thompson AE. Fans of veggie juices can enjoy these sips during recovery from a diverticulitis flare-up, according to the NLM. A Guide To Determining The Right Amount. Oatmeal is another whole grain that is rich in fiber and packed with vitamins. The presence of low fat dairy products (if tolerated). Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts can help you get a lot of fiber as well as a lot of nutrients. : Diverticulitis occurs when a small pocket on the wall of the colon ruptures. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. All trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Flake cereal, mashed potatoes, pancakes, waffles, pasta, white bread, rice, applesauce, bananas, eggs, fish, poultry, tofu, and well-cooked vegetables are all examples of foods that are good for your health. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. The general recommendation is that people who have Diverticulosis eat pizza without any reservations. Typically, the oils used to cook foods arent good.
Uno Y, et al. If you have diverticulitis, talk with your doctor about your food needs and food restrictions. Although fried chicken is acceptable for a limited amount of time, eating it on a regular basis is best avoided. Following recent studies, there may be no need to be concerned about these foods. Dietary fiber is essential for both good digestion and the prevention of chronic diseases such as diverticular disease. In addition, spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol can all worsen the inflammation associated with Diverticulitis. If youre having an acute attack of diverticulitis, your doctor may suggest either a low fiber diet or a clear liquid diet to help relieve your symptoms. When consumed in addition to instant oatmeal, whole wheat bread, muffins, and wraps, whole grain carbohydrates can contribute to digestive health by providing nutrients. These include. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diverticulosis-diverticulitis, link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-59180-3_6, gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(17)30006-9/fulltext, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6430566/, jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2552211, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5095569/, How to Eat (and Recover from) a Low Fiber Diet, A Beginners Guide to the Low FODMAP Diet. Also, low levels of vitamin D, which people mainly obtain through exposure to sunshine, may link to diverticulitis. You may get a perforation that leaks infection into your colon, causing an abscess to grow in your abdominal cavity. For example, a 2018 review indicated that obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking might all play a role in its development. Rich desserts, such as cupcakes and cookies, are not permitted on the keto diet. A diet that's high in fiber can help prevent constipation. Heredity and diet may play a part in getting diverticulitis, but doctors arent entirely sure. Does a high fiber diet reduce risk of diverticulitis? That said, management of diverticulitis depends on the person. We want to help our community find and shine their inner light - the truth of love, light, and positivity that is within us all! As a result, you should eat plenty of fiber-rich foods to stay healthy. As a result, you may want to limit your intake of red meat, processed foods, and sweets if you have diverticulitis, as well as increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Researchers have now discovered that eating a high-fiber diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can lower the risk of diverticulitis. Eating a diet high in fiber is best to offset flare-ups. Your doctor may prescribe it for a short period of time.
Can you eat Is this an emergency? National Library of Medicines list Furthermore, if your healthcare provider recommends a low-fiber diet, your bowel may benefit from rest and recovery. If you have diverticula, focus on eating a healthy diet that's high in fiber. Everyone reacts differently to your condition. Click here to learn more. Low fiber foods to consider eating if you have symptoms of diverticulitis include: A clear liquid diet is a more restrictive approach to relieving diverticulitis symptoms. Herbs To Elevate Your Coleslaw: Unlock The Delicious Possibilities Of Fresh Herbs, Uncovering The Secret Ingredients Of KFC Coleslaw. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Some people with mild diverticulitis may be able to eat foods like cabbage without any issues, while others with more severe cases may need to avoid high-fiber foods like cabbage. Foods that may aggravate diverticulosis symptoms include popcorn, seeds, nuts, raw fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. A 2021 review linked a diet high in fiber with a lower risk of diverticulitis or hospitalization from diverticular disease. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, How Much Raw Cabbage Do You Need To Make Perfect Coleslaw? It affects a person's mood, en Past trauma can impact every facet of life, including relationships with loved ones and colleagues. Barbara G, et al. When you are eating vegetables on the side, such as soup, salad, or cooked vegetables, you should gradually increase your fiber intake, drink plenty of fluids, and add vegetables as needed. While some researchers have linked a high fiber diet to a reduced risk of diverticulitis, this may not be helpful for someone experiencing diverticulitis flare-ups. Learn more, After having a colonoscopy, a persons digestive system will require some time to recover. Research suggests that eating a high fiber diet can help prevent diverticulitis flares. If you enjoy these types of foods, eat only a small amount at a time to lessen the chance of having a flare-up. Avoid consuming highly processed foods when having acute diverticulitis. So, what ten foods make diverticulitis worse? In Dietary Patterns and Whole Plant Food in Aging and Disease, the author commented that a low intake of FODMAP foods might help to lower the risk and alleviate symptoms of diverticular disease. But a 2021 systematic review of studies indicated that studies promoting probiotic benefits for diverticulitis are not sufficient to draw any meaningful conclusions. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. A FODMAP is a type of carbohydrate that can cause digestive problems. In most cases, you can return to a low-fiber diet within four to six weeks and begin reintroduction of higher-fiber foods. 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. If you have a flare-up, its best to stick to a liquid diet so that your bowel can rest and recover. If you notice that certain vegetables or high-fiber foods are irritating or worsening your symptoms, you may want to remove those foods from your diet.
Diverticulitis Diet: Foods To Avoid with Diverticulitis - WebMD Read on to learn about foods to eat and, Not sure what to eat after a colonoscopy? Diverticulitis can be a painful condition. Diverticulitis Diet: Foods to Eat, Avoid, and More - Healthline Grilling, baking, or broiling is the best way to prepare meats. High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, soften waste and help it pass more Once symptoms improve, they may recommend moving on to a low fiber diet until symptoms disappear, then building up to a high fiber diet. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. This may not be ideal for people with diverticulitis, as a high-fiber diet can actually worsen symptoms. People suffering from diverticulosis can still enjoy a variety of nutritious and delicious foods. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. It is critical to communicate with your healthcare provider to ensure that the treatment is successful and to monitor any side effects as well. They can cause lots of gas and bloating, which can make your diverticulitis worse. As the amount of alcohol consumed increases, the risk of developing this disease increases. The ramblings and recipes of a girl from NYC who loves to cook loves to eat, collects cookbooks and loves anything to do with food. Herbs To Elevate Your Coleslaw: Unlock The Delicious Possibilities Of Fresh Herbs, Uncovering The Secret Ingredients Of KFC Coleslaw. The inflammation and infection that can result from diverticulitis are caused by diverticula tears. When certain foods have a high roughage (insoluble fiber) content, you may find that they are less uncomfortable than bland, discomfort-inducing foods like corn, salads, nuts, and very seedy foods. Diverticulitis is a digestive condition that affects the large intestine in a number of people. But research has shown that there is no link between eating these foods and an increased risk of developing diverticulitis, and doctors no longer make this Certain spices may be irritating, but turmeric and ginger are tasty and have digestive benefits. But people experiencing a flare-up may be better off avoiding high fiber foods. Top your cup of yogurt with granola or nuts for added crunchy goodness. Diverticulitis is a condition in which one or more of the small pockets becomes infected and inflamed. In this article, learn how diet, heat pads, and exercise, Diverticulitis is a condition affecting a person's colon. Healthy Diverticulosis Diet You can eat pizza on occasion if you dont have any diverticulosis symptoms. You should drink liquids or a bland diet as long as you feel better and gradually increase the amount of fibre in your diet. If you want to boost your fiber intake, drink water, seltzer, club soda, and herbal tea as part of your daily diet. Dietary patterns and whole plant foods in aging and disease. Instead, try baking, grilling, roasting, boiling, and steaming. For people without diverticular issues, eating a diet thats rich in fiber helps promote a healthy digestive system. Eating these foods can further irritate the already inflamed pouches, causing abdominal pain, bloating, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Eat whole-grain bread, rice, or quinoa instead of white rice or potatoes.
Can You Eat Salad With Diverticulitis - SaladProGuide.com A person living with diverticulitis should always consult their healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to discuss how best to manage their symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes. Others may have severe pain, fever, and diarrhea. They cause gas and bloating for many people and, in general, arent a healthy choice if you suffer from diverticulitis. The chances of getting diverticulosis increases as you age. Water keeps your blood healthy, and your skin smoother plus keeps your body hydrated. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics as directed by you. If you have diverticulitis, it is best to avoid eating coleslaw and other high fiber dishes. Furthermore, no diet has been shown to prevent attacks. When you consume fiber too soon, your body may experience discomfort, such as bloating or gas. A clear liquid diet may be necessary during an acute diverticulitis flare. This means any raw vegetables, especially those with skins, are off limits for now. One 2017 study found that if people stick to certain lifestyle recommendations, it might be possible to prevent 50% of diverticulitis cases.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Foods like ice cream, butter, and whole milk are high in fat may cause diverticulitis to flare up. If you have diverticulitis and follow a healthy diet, you likely want to know what vegetables you can eat with a diverticulitis flare-up. Caffeine, spicy foods, chocolate, and milk products are all foods that can make you feel nauseated or painful. Attacks have not been linked to a specific diet. Dreher, M. L. (2018). A 2017 study involving more than 46,000 male participants suggests that avoiding the following foods may help prevent diverticulitis or reduce its symptoms: According to some research, avoiding red meat and foods high in FODMAPs, sugar, and fat can help prevent diverticulitis flare-ups. Certain foods can be difficult for people with this condition to consume. These two foods are difficult for your gut to digest. Consume more fiber and avoid foods that may aggravate constipation as part of a diverticulitis diet. Broccoli, cabbage, and artichoke, for example, are high in fiber and can be difficult to digest. Prepare your veggies and meats with olive oil rather than cooking oils or vegetable oils that are loaded with trans fats. Diverticulosis is more common in older adults. Steps include: Gradually adopting a high-fiber diet In one study, a high-fiber diet resulted in about a 40 percent decreased risk of diverticulitis attacks compared with a low-fiber diet. It is best to avoid these foods altogether, or to consume them in small amounts. Pizza and macaroni and cheese are two classic comfort foods, but can they be eaten when you have diverticulitis? spinach/kale soup, and minestrone soup. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 20202025, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5533623/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8070710/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852713/, https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diverticulosis-diverticulitis/definition-facts, https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723656/, https://surgery.ucsf.edu/conditions--procedures/diverticulitis.aspx, https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-59180-3_6, https://www.ibsdiets.org/fodmap-diet/fodmap-food-list/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459316/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5736501/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3966170/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29607785/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33919818/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28065788/, https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(19)30046-0/fulltext, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6430566/, https://www.wjgnet.com/2150-5349/full/v7/i4/503.htm, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174080/, New clues to slow aging? of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. Within 2 to 3 days, most diverticulitis cases will subside. Its an infection of the diverticula. In other words, though probiotics may not hurt a person, they also may not provide any real benefit either.