Diverticulitis and Diabetes Dieting Theory

• Fortunately, diets for diverticulitis and diabetes are not all that conflicting. A healthy diet for diverticulitis is rich in fiber, to reduce the risk of developing an infection, the Mayo Clinic reports. A healthy diet for diabetes manages insulin levels by adhering to foods low on the glycemic index scale, the clinic says. The scale is simply a list that shows the impact certain foods have on blood sugar levels. Foods low on the scale are better. Thus, the basic idea behind dieting for diverticulitis and diabetes together is to consume plenty of foods that are simultaneously high in fiber and low on the glycemic index scale.
  
  

Diet Advice

• If you're a diabetes and diverticulitis patient, the vast majority of foods you need are whole grains, fruits and vegetables. All are relatively high in fiber to treat diverticulitis. Some of these foods that are low on the glycemic index scale are mushrooms, cherries, apples, oranges, broccoli, grapefruit, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, whole wheat items, rye, buckwheat, barley and oats.
  
  Each meal you eat should contain at least one fruit, one vegetable and one whole grain to ensure that you are both managing your insulin levels and keeping your fiber intake high. Generally speaking, aim for at least 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day, which should not be a problem if you stick to the diet.
  
  Also make it a point to consume a lean protein source such as eggs, fish, turkey, chicken or low-fat beef at each meal. Finally, ensure that about 30 percent of your total daily calories are from fat--a blend of saturated and unsaturated fats, with preference to unsaturated. Foods containing healthy fats include fish oil, avocados, coconuts, olive oil, almonds, walnuts and pecans.
  
  Finally, avoid eating foods that are likely to undermine your health goals. Steer clear of foods containing excessive sugars, alcohol, processed foods, and foods containing refined sugar. These items are generally lower in fiber and cause greater swings in blood sugar than the natural foods recommended. Avoid them entirely while you are dieting for diverticulitis and diabetes.