Diverticulosis is an asymptomatic diverticular disease, meaning there are usually no signs or symptoms related to your condition. There is currently no known cause but scientists believe it is closely linked to a significant decrease in your fiber intake which can increase your intracolonic pressure. This particular disease mainly affects older patients, probably aged 60 or older. The most common cause among elderly patients is increased consumption of refined foods, which contain less fiber than unrefined foods. Because diverticula can occur anywhere in your body. In the intestinal tract, the most common location appears to be the left colon. When these diverticula begin to form, they travel toward the weakest points in the colon wall, which are usually found where arteries infiltrate the tunica muscularis to nourish the mucosal layer of the colon. Abnormal movements or high blood pressure can also contribute to the condition. It is very common to see thickening of the muscles surrounding the diverticula, due to hypertrophy and contraction of the muscle which increases pressure and possible herniation. Typical consumption of a low-fiber diet tends to reduce the bulk of fecal matter, leading to 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 alter the gut microflora, which decreases the colon's immune response and allows inflammation to occur. When symptoms of diverticulosis are apparent, they usually consist of lower abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence. In most cases, diverticulosis is only diagnosed when tests, such as a barium enema, X-ray or middle of paper ......d breads, fruits, vegetables and dried beans, peas and lentils. Drinking plenty of fluids will also help stools stay soft, reducing the risk. There has been debate over whether people with 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 might actually reduce the risk of developing this disease due to their high fiber content. Most often, anyone diagnosed early has a greater chance of recovering and living a normal life. One thing we should all remember, whether we have a disease or not, is to always read the label and if you can't tell or read the ingredients, DON'T eat it. It hasn't been officially proven, but a diet with more natural ingredients will always be better for you in the long run...