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Contents
  • Who Gets Diverticulosis?
  • Surprising Risk Factors
  • How Diverticulosis Develops

What's the Deal with Diverticulosis? The Surprising Truth About Those Colon Pouches

What's the Deal with Diverticulosis? The Surprising Truth About Those Colon Pouches

The Scoop on Diverticulosis

Diverticulosis is a common condition where small pouches form in the wall of the colon. While it affects over half of people over 60, many don't even know they have it.
Contents
  • Who Gets Diverticulosis?
  • Surprising Risk Factors
  • How Diverticulosis Develops

Who Gets Diverticulosis?

Diverticulosis becomes more common as we age. Less than 20% of 40-year-olds have it, but by age 60, that jumps to 60%. It's more common in men and in white people. Interestingly, it tends to occur on the left side of the colon in Western countries, but on the right side in Asian countries.

Surprising Risk Factors

You might think a low-fiber diet causes diverticulosis, but recent studies suggest that's not true. The real culprits? Being overweight, smoking, and lack of exercise seem to increase your risk. Genetics may play a role too - if your twin has diverticulosis, you're more likely to develop it.
A condition characterized by the formation of small pouches in the wall of the colon, common in older adults.

How Diverticulosis Develops

Diverticula form at weak spots in the colon wall, often where blood vessels pass through. It's like a weak spot in a garden hose that bulges out under pressure. Changes in the colon's muscle contractions and connective tissue as we age may contribute. Some researchers think changes in gut bacteria might be involved too.

FAQs

Is diverticulosis dangerous?

Usually not, but complications can occur in some people.

Do I need treatment for diverticulosis?

Most people with diverticulosis don't need any treatment.

Can I prevent diverticulosis?

Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising may help reduce risk.

Should I avoid nuts and seeds?

No, studies show these foods don't increase complications.

The Bottom Line

While diverticulosis is common, it's usually harmless and doesn't require treatment in most people.
Curious about your colon health? Chat with Doctronic to learn more about diverticulosis and how to keep your gut happy.
Additional References
  1. Peery AF, et al. Distribution and Characteristics of Colonic Diverticula in a United States Screening Population. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 14:980.
  2. Peery AF, et al. A high-fiber diet does not protect against asymptomatic diverticulosis. Gastroenterology 2012; 142:266.
  3. Strate LL, et al. Heritability and familial aggregation of diverticular disease: a population-based study of twins and siblings. Gastroenterology 2013; 144:736.
  4. Barbara G, et al. Gut microbiota, metabolome and immune signatures in patients with uncomplicated diverticular disease. Gut 2017; 66:1252.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.