Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I have been treated for diverticulitis. My doctor has put me through several tests and we are waiting for the results. How should I eat and manage my lifestyle?
A: I recommend you wait until all the test results are in and your primary physician makes a specific diagnosis before you begin any additional treatment protocols.
In the mean time, I suggest you go on a soft, liquid diet. Avoid meat and preservative products. Also avoid cold raw foods, including raw salads. Do not eat any oily fried foods and drink plenty of water. Eat foods rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. A good breakfast would be oatmeal or rice porridge. Soups are also good, but do not eat the canned kind. Instead, prepare a nice mixed vegetable soup with no heavy spices, and blend it before eating. You should avoid all spices in general because they irritate the intestinal lining. Do not eat corn, popcorn, or other small bitty foods that might get captured in the diverticula.
In terms of beverages, do not drink coffee and alcohol. Instead drink green tea or buy some chrysanthemum tea. At this time, do not engage in strenuous exercises and avoid stress. Get at least 8 hours of sleep at night, going to bed no later than 10:00 PM.
You may find these specially formulated Traditions of Tao products helpful for diverticulitis: “Abundant Energy”, “Acid Stomach”, and “Indigestion”. Of course, discuss with your physician before beginning any new health regime.
