A staged approach alongside IBD or diverticular disease
General, remission-phase lifestyle steps — always alongside your specialist's treatment plan, never instead of it.
This supports your treatment — it doesn't replace it
If you live with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or diverticular disease, your medical treatment and your specialist's guidance always come first. The ideas here are general lifestyle patterns some people build in gradually once they're in a settled, stable phase — not a substitute for your treatment plan.
Building the pattern gradually
A Mediterranean-style pattern — more plants, legumes, wholegrains and olive oil, less ultra-processed food — is often introduced gradually rather than all at once, alongside a slow increase in fibre as tolerated.
Everyday habits that support you
Regular movement, not smoking, and steady sleep are broadly supportive habits worth building over time. If you notice symptoms of a flare — increasing pain, bleeding, fevers — contact your specialist team rather than adjusting your diet on your own.
Sources: AGA IBD Dietary Guidance Clinical Practice Update · AGA diverticulitis Clinical Practice Update
Reviewed by Dr Sivasuthan, 8 July 2026
General gut-health education from your care team. It doesn't replace advice from your doctor or an Accredited Practising Dietitian — please talk to them about your own situation.