What type of diet is recommended for a patient experiencing acute diverticulitis?

In the context of acute diverticulitis, a low-fiber, low residue diet is recommended primarily to allow the gastrointestinal tract to rest and heal. During an acute flare-up, the diverticula—small pouches that can form in the colon—become inflamed. A low-residue diet minimizes the bulk of stool and decreases the workload on the intestines, which helps reduce the irritation and inflammation associated with the condition.

Fiber plays a significant role in digestive health, but in the case of acute diverticulitis, high-fiber foods can exacerbate symptoms by increasing stool bulk and requiring more vigorous intestinal contractions. Therefore, restricting fiber intake helps to manage pain and discomfort while promoting recovery.

The other options either advocate for high-fiber intake or suggest inappropriate dietary restrictions that do not align with the treatment goals for acute diverticulitis. High-fiber diets may be beneficial for preventing diverticulitis in chronic cases but are contraindicated during an active episode. Low-protein, low-carbohydrate diets are not specifically indicated in this scenario, as the focus should be on managing inflammation in the digestive tract.