This week in clinic, I have been shocked to hear some of the old fashioned and non-evidence based dietary information that some of my clients have been getting from their friends and from their local clinics. Some of this is just plain old bad advice.
The main one this week is around Diverticular Disease and avoiding seeds, nuts, pips, corn and the peel from fruit and vegetables. One lady was even told to peel the tomatoes for her salad and to deseed strawberries!
You absolutely do not have to do this!
In fact, there is no evidence whatsoever for avoiding these foods or for taking the peel off your tomato or any other vegetables or fruit.
The main things to do with Diverticular Disease are:
• Eat a high fibre diet . Its ALL about fibre.
• There is no evidence for avoiding foods like skins, berry seeds, nuts, corn and popcorn.
• Get regular exercise
• Keep to a healthy weight
• Reduce the amount of red meat you eat
• Regular meals with fruit and vegetables
• Make sure to drink at least 1.6 L or 3 pints water each day (women) or 2 L/3.5 pints (men)
• Make sure you have enough vitamin D (if you choose a supplement, 400IU is enough each day)
• Cut down alcohol and smoking, if this relates to you.
If you would like any more information about how to increase the fibre in your diet, just contact me for an appointment and we can discuss how to incorporate more into your daily meal plan.
