The diverticulitis diet: Best foods to eat during a flare-up

Living with diverticulitis can feel overwhelming—but understanding how food affects your symptoms is a powerful first step. Making a few smart choices in your diverticulitis diet can help ease discomfort, support healing and help prevent future diverticulitis flare-ups.

Whether you're in the middle of an episode or focused on long-term gut health, this guide will walk you through what to eat in your diverticulitis diet.

The good news? A few simple changes can make a big difference. Here’s how.

What is the diverticulitis diet?

The diverticulitis diet is a way of eating that helps manage symptoms during a diverticulitis flare-up and supports your digestive health between episodes.

When symptoms are active—like pain, bloating or changes in bowel habits—your doctor may recommend starting with clear liquids, then slowly adding low-fiber foods as you start to feel better. This gives your digestive system a chance to rest and heal.

Once the flare-up passes, a high-fiber diet becomes key. Fiber helps keep your digestive system moving and can lower the risk of future flare-ups. That means adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes to your meals.

Everyone’s needs are a little different, so it’s always best to work with your healthcare provider to find the right diet for diverticulitis that works for you.

Best foods for diverticulitis

When you're dealing with diverticulitis, especially during a flare-up, the right foods can help soothe your symptoms and support healing. The key is to start simple and gentle, then gradually add in more fiber as your body recovers.

At the start of an active flare, doctors typically recommend a clear liquid diet. Stick to water, broth, juice without pulp, sports drinks and other clear liquids. As symptoms start to improve (around 24-48 hours later), you can start introducing low-fiber foods.

The best low-fiber foods for diverticulitis during a flare-up include:

• Plátanos
• Plain crackers
• Coba
• White rice
• Plain pasta
• Cooked, skinless vegetables like carrots or zucchini

These foods are easy to digest and less likely to irritate your gut. Once your symptoms are resolved, you can slowly reintroduce fiber-rich foods, such as:

• Avena
• Arroz integral
• Lentejas
• Frijoles
• Bayas
• Leafy greens

Your doctor may also recommend a fiber supplement. As part of a healthy diverticulitis diet, these high-fiber foods can help keep your digestive system running smoothly. Just go slow, as adding too much fiber too fast can cause bloating or cramping. Drinking plenty of water is also important, especially as you increase fiber.

The best approach? Listen to your body and work with your healthcare provider to build a plan that supports your recovery and long-term gut health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider if your symptoms aren’t improving.

Can diverticulitis go away on its own?

If your diverticulitis is mild, it may go away on its own—but it’s always a good idea see a healthcare provider for an evaluation. They may recommend antibiotics for an infection, or prescription pain medications if your pain is severe.

Your provider can also provide recommendations for diverticulitis self-care at home while you’re recovering. Home care for diverticulitis may include:

• Descanso
• Light exercise (walking, stretching, etc.)
• Heating pad
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated

Always consult your provider if your symptoms don’t improve.

Bottom line: Does the diverticulitis diet work?

Managing diverticulitis through diet doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By knowing which foods to avoid with diverticulitis and gradually building fiber into your diverticulitis diet when you’re feeling better, you can take real steps toward long-term gut health.

Everyone’s digestive system is different, so be patient with the process—and don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or a dietitian for guidance. Small changes can lead to lasting relief and a healthier gut.

Find a doctor near you for support managing diverticulitis.