The link between diverticulitis and alcohol is unclear, but alcohol can worsen flare-ups. Poor diet and genetics may be factors in developing the condition, and a high-fiber diet can help. Studies are ongoing, and patients with a family history may consider clinical trials.
The relationship between diverticulitis and alcohol appears to be tenuous, with some studies suggesting it may play a causal role in the development of this digestive condition, while others do not. Patients with active diverticulitis may be advised to avoid alcohol along with other potential irritants because they can make a flare up worse. People with diverticulitis who have concerns about drinking alcohol can discuss them with a doctor to see if there are any specific recommendations.
In diverticulitis, small pouches form along the intestinal wall. Some people have asymptomatic forms of this condition, where the sacs cause no problems. Others experience inflammation that leads to abdominal pain, diarrhea and other health problems. The reasons this condition develops are unclear, although there appears to be a genetic factor and people with poor diets may be at higher risk. In regions where people tend to eat a diet high in fiber and low in fat, the incidence of this disease is very low.
Alcoholics tend to eat a poor diet and this can create the illusion of a connection between diverticulitis and alcohol. The cause of the condition is actually the limited fiber and nutrition in the alcoholic diet, rather than the alcohol itself. People who eat a balanced diet and consume alcohol in moderation do not appear to have an increased risk of developing this condition, unless they have a family history of diverticulitis or other gastrointestinal disorders.
For patients with active flare-ups, it may be best to avoid alcohol, as it can irritate the intestines and make inflammation worse. People who notice increased pain or intestinal irregularity related to drinking should stop for the duration of the flare-up to rest the digestive system. It’s also important to eat plenty of fiber-rich whole foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains. This will help address the inflammation and make the patient feel more comfortable.
Studies on diverticulitis and alcohol are underway, along with other environmental factors. These include return studies, in which researchers look at medical histories for people diagnosed with diverticulitis to look for commonalities between them, as well as ongoing studies. Patients with a family history of this condition may want to see if they are eligible for studies or clinical trials of new methods for preventing and treating diverticulitis. A gastrointestinal specialist can provide more information and help people apply for any open studies.
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