March Is All About Gut Health: Understanding Your Risk for Diverticulitis
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Understanding your risk for diverticulitis, a common colon condition is a strong step in focusing on your gut health. Learning the symptoms, risk factors and prevention strategies can help protect your digestive health and prevent future complications.
Key Takeaways
- Diverticulitis becomes more likely with age, lifestyle factors and low fiber intake, but risk can often be reduced with healthy habits.
- Recognizing symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, fever or bowel changes is critical, as early treatment can prevent serious complications.
- Assessing your digestive health, understanding your risk and considering preventive evaluation with a specialist are all proactive strategies you can take.
Colon Health Awareness
March is Colon Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to check in on the part of your body that works quietly every day to keep you feeling your best – your digestive tract. While many people associate this month with colorectal cancer screening, it’s also an important opportunity to understand your personal risk for other common colon conditions, including diverticulitis.
Diverticulitis affects millions of adults each year and can cause sudden, painful inflammation in the colon. The good news: Understanding your risk and knowing what steps to take can help keep your gut healthy and may prevent future problems.
What Is Diverticulitis?
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the lining of the colon and become inflamed or infected. These pouches are increasingly common with age, especially after 40. Many people have diverticula without any symptoms – a condition known as diverticulosis – but when inflammation develops, it can lead to severe abdominal pain, fever or changes in bowel habits.
“Diverticulitis is something we treat often, and many patients don’t realize how common it is,” says Dr. Jai Bikhchandani, a Colorectal Surgeon at St. Elizabeth. “Understanding your risk factors can help you prevent flare-ups and know when it’s time to seek care.”
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Certain lifestyle factors and personal health conditions can increase your chances of developing diverticulitis. These include:
- A diet low in fiber.
- Lack of regular physical activity.
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
- Aging.
- A family history of diverticular disease.
- Certain medications, including long-term steroid use.
Although anyone can develop diverticulitis, making small daily changes can lower your risk and support long-term gut health.
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
Diverticulitis can range from mild discomfort to serious complications. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp pain, usually in the lower left abdomen.
- Fever or chills.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Bloating or abdominal tenderness.
“If you have sudden abdominal pain that doesn’t improve or you notice symptoms getting worse, don’t wait,” Dr. Bikhchandani says. “Prompt treatment can prevent complications and protect your long-term digestive health.”
Simple Steps to Support a Healthier Gut
Healthy habits play an important role in preventing diverticulitis and improving your overall digestive wellness.
Boost your fiber intake. Add more whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes to your meals. Increase fiber gradually to avoid discomfort.
Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps your colon function more smoothly.
Move more. Regular physical activity supports healthy digestion and reduces pressure inside the colon.
Limit smoking and alcohol. Both can irritate the digestive system and increase your risk for inflammation.
Know your family history. Share it with your primary care provider or a colorectal specialist so they can guide you on screening or preventive care needs.
Why Evaluation Still Matters – Even If You Feel Fine
Many digestive conditions can develop quietly. A colorectal specialist can help detect issues early, manage symptoms and create a plan to prevent flare-ups. Colonoscopies, for example, not only identify colorectal cancer but can also diagnose diverticulosis, inflammation and other conditions before they become serious.
Take Charge of Your Digestive Health This March
Understanding your digestive health today can help prevent pain, discomfort and complications tomorrow. If you have symptoms of diverticulitis, a family history of digestive disease or simply want to better understand your risk, a consultation with a colorectal specialist can provide clarity and peace of mind. To learn more about colorectal and digestive care at St. Elizabeth, visit our Colorectal Surgery page.
Medically reviewed by Jai Bikhchandani, MD, on 3/9/2026.
