What Is Diverticulosis and Can Fiber Help?

Diverticulosis is a situation in which there is an out-pouching of the inner wall of the colon. This disorder is believed to be the result of increased pressure within the colon. In turn, this increased pressure is most likely the result of the highly refined diet that people choose to eat in the United States. A refined diet results in less fiber or “roughage” and thus less digestive leftovers or “residue” making its way into the colon. Less content in the colon results in a smaller diameter and greater pressure exerted upon its walls from within. It is a matter of physics, as there is an inverse relationship between the radius (r) of a collapsible tube and pressure (P) as follows:

So you see, if the radius of the colon increases due to increased content then the internal pressure decreases, and vice versa. Researchers have clearly shown that those populations in the world that eat more fiber have a lower incidence of diverticulosis. Diverticulosis can lead to a medical concern called diverticulitis. Here the out-pouchings become impacted with bacteria and debris, leading to irritation, inflammation, pain, and sometimes bleeding.

Insoluble fibers like cellulose and hemicellulose appear to have a beneficial effect upon the formation of feces and their evacuation. Bran is an excellent source of these insoluble fibers and explains the popularity of bran breakfast cereals, muffins, and other products among individuals experiencing constipation and diverticulosis. Soluble fibers can contribute to mass and moistness of feces but not to the same extent as insoluble fiber. However, it is important to recognize that both types of fibers are beneficial and should be sought out for general digestive health.