From Popcorn To Nuts In Diverticulosis: Good-bye To An Old Chestnut

Main Category: GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
Also Included In: Irritable-Bowel Syndrome;  Allergy;  Primary Care / General Practice
Article Date: 07 Jan 2009 - 8:00 PST

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What evidence supports the recommendation that patients with diverticulosis avoid nuts, popcorn, and other high-residue foods?

A patient comes to her physician for instructions consequent to the discovery of diverticular disease. She is cautioned to avoid high-residue foods, such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, and corn either on or off the cob, because the by-products of these foods might lead to trauma or obstruction at the diverticular opening in the colon, resulting in brisk bleeding or infection.

For a long time, this clinical scenario has represented common practice. The problem is that the recommendation to avoid high-residue foods may seem rational at first glance, but it lacks empiric proof. In addition, one of the proscribed foods, nuts, actually has a number of health benefits.

GREGORY W. RUTECKI, MD - Series Editor
Dr Rutecki is director of medical education, Mount Carmel Health System, and clinical professor of medicine at The Ohio State University in Columbus. He is also a member of the editorial board of CONSULTANT

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