When stress is added to the overall picture, the problem of diverticulitis becomes an issue. This is due to the body impulses that will immediately address stressful situations by shifting the oxygen and blood from the digestive tract to the brain and muscles.
What triggers diverticulitis flare ups?
You're more likely to experience a diverticulitis flare-up if you are:
- Over age 40.
- Overweight or obese.
- A smoker.
- Physically inactive.
- Someone whose diet is high in animal products and low in fiber (most Americans)
- Someone who takes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), steroids or opioids.
Are there triggers for diverticulitis?
There are no specific triggers for diverticulitis attacks. In the past, it was believed that foods such as nuts, popcorn, and seeds should be avoided by diverticulitis patients because it was thought these particles could enter or block the diverticula.
