What Does It Mean?
Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition where small pouches (diverticula) in the colon become infected or inflamed. This condition can lead to abdominal pain, digestive distress, and, in severe cases, complications like abscesses or perforations. Functional Medicine approaches diverticulitis by addressing inflammation, gut microbiome imbalances, and dietary factors contributing to its onset and progression.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Chronic Inflammation – Low-grade systemic inflammation can contribute to the weakening of the intestinal walls.
- Gut Dysbiosis – Imbalances in gut bacteria may lead to overgrowth of harmful microbes and increased risk of infection.
- Low Fiber Diet – Lack of dietary fiber can contribute to constipation and increased pressure on the colon walls, leading to diverticula formation.
- Immune Dysregulation – Weakened immune function may make the gut more susceptible to infection.
- Frequent Antibiotic Use – Disrupts gut microbiota and may promote recurrent infections.
- Toxin & Heavy Metal Accumulation – Environmental toxins can impair gut function and immune response.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Lower abdominal pain, typically on the left side
- Bloating and gas
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Fever and chills (in more severe cases)
- Mucus or blood in stool
How Do We Treat It?
A Functional Medicine approach focuses on reducing inflammation, rebalancing the gut microbiome, and optimizing digestion.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Advanced Vita-Biotic R | Supports gut health, reduces inflammation, promotes neurotransmitter production | 1 capsule with food daily |
| Endura | Enhances hydration and supports adrenal function | 1 packet with or without food, three times daily |
| D-Mannose Powder | Supports gut microbiota balance | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Defense | Boosts immune function and protects against oxidative stress | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| V-Pax | Supports neurological function and mood stabilization | 2 capsules without food, twice daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial function and energy production | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vita-Candid | Helps regulate gut microbiota | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation | 1 capsule without food,daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation and neurotransmitter synthesis | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita DIM | Supports hormonal balance and estrogen metabolism | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Supports digestion and nutrient absorption | 2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Supports detoxification and oxidative stress reduction | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Magnesium | Essential for relaxation and neurotransmitter production | 2 capsule with or without food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Supports tissue repair and overall wellness | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| SBI Powder | Supports gut barrier function and immune modulation | 1 scoop of powder in cold liquids, daily |
| Gluta Protect | Enhances glutathione levels for detoxification | 1 scoop of powder without food, daily |
| Vita Microbe | Supports microbiome balance and immune function | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides antioxidant support and enhances immune function | ¼ scoop of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports gut health and neurotransmitter production | 4 capsules without food,daily |
| Vita Flux | Nitric oxide & vascular health support | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Increase Fiber Intake: Gradual introduction of fiber-rich foods to support bowel regularity.
- Hydration: Adequate water intake to prevent constipation and support digestion.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Reduce processed foods and incorporate gut-healing nutrients.
- Probiotic-Rich Foods: Introduce fermented foods to promote a balanced gut microbiome.
Stress Management: Mindfulness, yoga, and relaxation techniques to support immune health.