Diverticulosis is an asymptomatic diverticular disease, meaning there are usually no signs or symptoms related to the disease. There is currently no known cause, but scientists believe it is closely related to a significant decrease in fiber intake which can increase intracolonic pressure. This particular disease is mostly found in older patients, most likely aged 60 or older, the most common cause in older patients is increased consumption of refined foods, which contain less fiber than unrefined foods. Since diverticula can occur anywhere in the body In the intestinal tract the most common place to be found appears to be the left colon. When these diverticula begin to form, they go into the weakest spots in the colon wall, which are usually where arteries infiltrate the tunica muscularis to provide nourishment to the mucous layer of the colon. Abnormal movements or high blood pressure can also contribute to the disease. It is very common to find a thickening of the muscles surrounding the diverticula, this is due to hypertrophy and contraction of the muscle which increases pressure and possible hernia. Typical consumption of a low fiber diet tends to reduce the majority of fecal matter and this causes a reduction in the diameter of the colon. The pressure on the wall then increases and the pressure makes it less cylindrical. Having a lot of insoluble fiber can also change the gut microflora, which decreases the immune response in the colon and promotes inflammation. When symptoms of diverticulosis are evident, they usually consist of lower abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence. In most cases, diverticulosis is diagnosed only when tests such as an x-ray with a barium enema or a co...... middle of paper ......d bread, fruit, vegetables and dried beans, peas and lentils. Drinking plenty of fluids will also help your stools stay soft, reducing your risk. There has been some debate as to whether those suffering from diverticulosis or diverticulitis should be advised to avoid foods such as nuts, corn and popcorn. A 2008 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that these foods may actually reduce the risk of this condition due to their high fiber content. In most cases, all people who are diagnosed early have a better chance of recovering and living a normal life. One thing we should all remember, whether we have an illness or not, is to always read the label and if you can't tell or read the ingredients DO NOT eat it. It hasn't been officially proven, but a diet made up of more natural ingredients will always be better in the long run.