Can I take regular Ensure (nutritional supplement) with a liquid diverticulitis flare-up diet?

Regular Ensure Can Be Safely Consumed During a Liquid Diverticulitis Flare-Up Diet

Yes, you can safely include regular Ensure in your liquid diverticulitis flare-up diet, as it provides essential nutrition while adhering to the clear liquid diet recommendations for acute diverticulitis. 1

Dietary Management During Diverticulitis Flare-Ups

Acute Phase Diet

• The American Gastroenterological Association recommends a clear liquid diet during the acute phase of uncomplicated diverticulitis 1
• Liquid nutritional supplements like Ensure are appropriate during this phase as they:
  • Provide essential nutrients
  • Are easy to digest
  • Don't contain indigestible fiber that could irritate inflamed diverticula
  • Help maintain nutritional status during limited food intake

Progression of Diet

• As symptoms improve (typically within 3-5 days), you can gradually advance from clear liquids to a regular diet 1
• The progression typically follows:
  1. Clear liquids (water, broth, clear juices, Ensure)
  2. Full liquids (milk, yogurt drinks, smoothies)
  3. Low-fiber soft foods
  4. Regular diet with gradually increasing fiber

Nutritional Considerations

Benefits of Nutritional Supplements

• During acute diverticulitis, maintaining adequate nutrition is important for healing and recovery
• Ensure provides:
  • Balanced calories
  • Protein for tissue repair
  • Vitamins and minerals
  • Easy digestibility

Post-Acute Phase Recommendations

• After the acute phase resolves, transition to a high-fiber diet (25-35 grams daily) to reduce recurrence risk 1
• Psyllium fiber supplements (15g daily) can be added to augment dietary fiber intake 1
• Avoid diets high in sweets and low in fiber 1

Important Considerations and Cautions

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If symptoms worsen while on a liquid diet, seek medical attention
• Signs requiring medical evaluation include:
  • Persistent fever
  • Increasing abdominal pain
  • Inability to tolerate liquids
  • Signs of dehydration

Medication Considerations

• Avoid NSAIDs, anticholinergics, and opioids during diverticulitis flares, as they may increase complications or mask symptoms 1
• If constipation is an issue, osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol may be recommended 1

Long-Term Management

• After recovery, focus on a high-fiber diet to prevent recurrence
• Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are also important preventive measures 1
• There's no evidence supporting the old recommendation to avoid nuts and seeds 2

Remember that while Ensure is appropriate during the acute liquid diet phase, the goal is to transition back to a balanced, high-fiber diet as soon as your symptoms allow, under the guidance of your healthcare provider.