Psyllium and
Pectin Fiber
A high-fiber diet
including the use of natural plant
fibers such as pectin (fruit
fiber) and psyllium may be an
effective prevention and treatment of diverticular disease. [2-4]
Pectin and psyllium have been
traditionally used as bulking
agents to improve stool
consistency, promote peristalsis,
and reduce straining during
defecation. [5]
Probiotics
(Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacteria)
Probiotics
supplementation is shown to
enhance intestinal tract immunity,
improve digestive health, relieve
food allergy symptoms, and insure
healthy intestinal microflora. Since antibiotics are used to
treat diverticulitis, and often
destroy friendly bacteria in the
intestinal tract, probiotic
supplementation may be
particularly helpful for persons
suffering from this condition. [6-8]
Peppermint Oil
Enteric-coated
peppermint oil supplements have
been shown to reduce colonic spasm
and abdominal pain. Peppermint
oil supplementation also has
antimicrobial effects on the
intestines, which may be effective
for diverticulitis. [9-12]
Olive leaf extract
Olive leaf extract
contains a phenolic glucoside,
known as oleuropein, which has
been shown to have powerful
antioxidant and antimicrobial
properties. [13-14] Olive leaf
extract supplementation can also help
to maintain healthy intestinal microflora.
Oregano Oil
Oil of oregano has
been used traditionally for
various inflammatory conditions, infections,
indigestion, dysentery, and
jaundice for centuries. Oregano
oil is a powerful antiseptic and
potent antibacterial, and has been
used as an alternative to
antibiotics [15].
Oregano oil supplementation has
been shown to eliminate bacterial
microorganisms, including
intestinal bacteria and parasites.
[16-18]
Grapefruit seed
extract
Grapefruit seed
extract has been shown to exhibit
certain
antimicrobial and antifungal
properties in the gastrointestinal
system. [19-20] Grapefruit seed
extract supplementation may assist
in the restoration and maintanence
of healthy
intestinal microflora.
Cat's Claw
Cat's Claw, a
traditional South American
medicine, has been shown to have
antimicrobial and antifungal
properties. Cat's Claw extract
supplementation may help eliminate
intestinal pathogens and support
healthy intestinal microflora. [21-23]
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