Understanding Diverticulitis and Alcohol
What Are Diverticula and Diverticular Disease?
Diverticula are small, abnormal pouches that can form in the wall of the large intestine. Any medical issue involving these pouches falls under the umbrella of diverticular disease. There are two main types:
- Diverticulosis – The condition of having diverticula. Most people don't experience symptoms and may not know they have it.
- Diverticulitis – Inflammation or infection of the diverticula. This occurs in about 4% of people with diverticulosis and typically causes noticeable symptoms.
Symptoms of Diverticulitis
The most common symptom is persistent abdominal pain, often on the lower left side (though it can occur on the right, sometimes leading to confusion with appendicitis). Other symptoms include:
- Abdominal tenderness
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
- Fever
- Cramping and bloating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blood in stool
Causes and Risk Factors
Diverticulitis becomes more common with age. Risk factors include obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet low in fiber and high in fat. Researchers are also exploring whether alcohol plays a role.
How Alcohol Affects Digestion
Alcohol can harm the digestive system in several ways:
- Slows muscle movement in the digestive tract, leading to heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation
- Damages the mucosal lining of the esophagus and intestines
- Reduces nutrient absorption, contributing to vitamin deficiencies
- Increases the passage of toxins through the intestinal walls
Alcohol and Diverticulitis: What’s the Link?
Studies offer mixed results. Some research suggests that alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing diverticulosis, which can lead to diverticulitis. Other studies find no significant connection. However, alcohol is known to weaken the immune system and interfere with medications, making it wise to avoid during a flare-up.
Can You Drink Alcohol with Diverticulitis?
It's best to avoid alcohol entirely during an active diverticulitis episode. Alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics and increase the risk of complications. After recovery, consult your doctor about whether and how much alcohol is safe for you.
Treatment and Prevention
Always follow your doctor’s advice for treating diverticulitis. In addition, these lifestyle changes may help manage symptoms and prevent future flare-ups:
- Increase fiber intake – Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (unless you're in a flare-up, when a low-fiber diet may be recommended).
- Stay active – Regular exercise supports healthy digestion.
- Consider fiber supplements – Ask your doctor before starting any supplements.
- Drink plenty of water – Aim for 9–13 cups daily to keep your digestive system running smoothly.
- Avoid NSAIDs – Medications like ibuprofen can irritate the intestines.
- Reduce meat consumption – Some studies show vegetarians have lower rates of diverticular disease.
- Avoid alcohol – Cutting back or quitting can lower your risk of flare-ups.
- Seek medical care – Don’t ignore persistent abdominal pain or other concerning symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- High fever
- Major changes in bowel movements
- Bloating, vomiting, or nausea that doesn’t improve
- Diverticulitis symptoms that don’t respond to treatment
Getting Support
If your doctor recommends reducing alcohol, Quitemate can help. Quitemate is a science-backed habit-change app developed with input from medical and behavioral experts. It offers tools and support to help you cut back on drinking and build a healthier lifestyle. A free 7-day trial is available through app stores.
