Diverticulosis and Pancreatitis

Diverticulosis and PancreatitisDiverticulosis and Pancreatitis By: David JamesonsessDiverticulosis When tension is so great that gas cannot be expelled normally but is forced-or diverted-against the intestinal walls, it sometimes forms small balloon-like protuberances known as diverticula. and when loops simulating diverticula are formed in the intestines of animals, anemia is produced even though the diet is adequate. When these putrefactive bacteria are destroyed by a generous intake of yogurt or acidophil us milk or culture, the anemia is corrected provided the diet contains folic acid. Because foods supplying cellulose, or roughage, and unrefined starches support the growth of valuable bacteria, whereas smooth and refined foods cannot, the diet generally recommended for diverticulosis appears to be the very one that should be avoided. If inflammation has occurred, an anti-stress diet should be followed. An inflammation of this organ, or pancreatitis, has been produced by diets deficient in vitamin B6, protein, or certain amino acids, and by giving various drugs or chemicals. Human pancreatitis also occurs when the diet has been inadequate, and has resulted from cortisone or ACTH therapy. Persons with pancreatitis also absorb and store abnormally large amounts of iron, a phenomenon characteristic of a vitamin B6 deficiency; and a lack of vitamin B6, quickly damages the pancreas. The person with pancreatitis need not restrict fats or other health-building foods, but oils and lecithin should be used liberally, solid fats temporarily avoided, and enzyme tablets or powdered enzymes added to every bite of food eaten; Because there is always danger that the insulin-producing cells may be damaged, a highly adequate diet should be continued for many months.