Can I Drink Coffee During Diverticulitis Flare Up?
Diverticulitis is a common problem that affects many people, usually aged over 50. It affects the digestive system and can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Commonly, those suffering from diverticulitis are advised to restrict their diets and avoid certain foods. One such restriction is avoiding coffee during diverticulitis flare-up. But what is the extent of this restriction? Can you still enjoy coffee in moderation or should it be avoided completely?
Caffeine can cause dehydration, as it is a diuretic, meaning it causes you to urinate more. This is especially true when consumed in large amounts. When your body is already going through the pain and discomfort of a diverticulitis flare-up, the last thing you want is additional dehydration. But, what happens when the coffee consumption is moderated?
Although it is not recommended when dealing with a flare up, medical professionals agree that consumption of coffee in moderation should be fine. Consumption should be limited to no more than one to two cups a day. This will lessen the amount of dehydration that the body is going through. Additionally, it is important to stay hydrated. It is recommended to have an extra glass or two of water to make sure the body is getting its required amounts of fluids.
However, it is important to note that coffee is still technically considered an irritant. Therefore it is not recommended to be consumed during explorative treatment. When undergoing treatment for diverticulitis, coffee consumption should be avoided. This includes coffee enemas and other similar treatments. Treatment for diverticulitis should include plenty of rest and hydration, so coffee consumption should therefore be avoided.
Importantly, coffee should not be the only course of action taken when having a flare-up. It should not be used in place of healthy food or medication. It is suggested to speak to a medical professional in order to discuss other dietary restrictions as well as what kind of treatments may be available to you. Generally, they may suggest a strict diet comprising only clear liquids, like broth and juice, with small amounts of fruits and vegetables.
Alternatives
Often, when people get the craving for coffee, it may be for the flavor or the comfort of a hot drink. If you are trying to avoid coffee but still want something similar, there are a variety of alternatives that still provide this level of comfort and flavor. Decaffeinated coffee is available in many places, thus providing the same taste with lower amounts of caffeine. Additionally, decaf green tea is an option as it still has a moderate amount of caffeine and many of the same beneficial properties. Finally, there are caffeine free flavored coffees, as well as herbal teas and chicory beverages.
Prevention & Lifestyle Changes
Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent diverticulitis flare-ups. However, there are a variety of lifestyle changes that may reduce the likelihood of experiencing a flare-up. Eating foods that are high in fiber, such as beans, fruits and vegetables will help keep your digestive system functioning properly and reduce your chances of getting diverticulitis. Additionally cutting back on or eliminating altogether sugary and fatty foods may help. Although not explicitly food related, avoiding unnecessary stress and gentle exercise are both crucial to leading a healthy lifestyle.
Other foods that you should avoid when having a flare-up include acidic foods and beverages such as coffee, alcohol, and citrus fruits. Additionally, consuming spicy foods should be avoided as well as any form of fried foods. These can take a toll on your digestive system, so limiting these should be done to avoid a flare-up. Finally, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. This will keep your body hydrated and make sure that your digestive system keeps moving.
Seeing a Doctor
Diverticulitis can be a painful and debilitating illness, and if the above lifestyle changes and dietary restrictions are not enough to reduce the chances of a flare-up, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor may be able to provide you with medication to help soothe the symptoms of a flare-up. Additionally, they may be able to provide you with more extreme treatments such as antibiotics or even surgery.
It is important to note that, while coffee can be okay in moderation, you should always speak to a doctor to get the best advice on how to manage your diverticulitis efficiently. Regularly check-ups and scans may also be necessary to ensure that the condition does not worsen and so appropriate medication or other forms of treatment can be administered.
Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can be beneficial to health in many ways. They are most commonly found in food products, but can also be taken in the form of supplements. Probiotics can help to restore the natural balance of intestinal microorganisms, which can help to improve symptoms of diverticulitis. Additionally, a combination of probiotics and other healthy bacteria can help to reduce the risk of future flare-ups.
Surgery
In serious cases of diverticulitis, surgery may be the recommended option. During surgery, the damaged parts of the colon are usually removed and the healthy section is sown back together. This can be done through a laparoscopic or open procedure. The laparoscopic procedure is usually preferred as it is less invasive and quicker to recover from, but this depends on your individual case.
Surgery is usually only recommended as a last resort, as there are often other milder treatments that can be tried before opting for surgery. However, it is important to remember that surgery is a possibility and should be discussed openly with your doctor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to be mindful of your diet when you are suffering from a diverticulitis flare-up. Although coffee can be consumed in moderation, it should never be the only course of action. You should always speak to a doctor and discuss the best treatment plans and lifestyle changes that may be beneficial to you. Additionally, there may be other more extreme treatments available if necessary. With the right care, lifestyle changes and medication, it is possible to manage your diverticulitis and reduce the chances of having a flare-up.
