Body weight and activity

"Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly -- especially vigorous physical activity, such as jogging -- may help reduce risk of diverticulitis," Strate says. "Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) at or above 30, which is considered obese, are at a higher risk of diverticular disease." Extra fat in the abdominal area triggers the body to produce inflammatory compounds, such as those found in diverticulitis.

Pain relievers

"Several studies have linked nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen, to greater risk of diverticulitis," Strate says. The AGA suggests people with a history of diverticulitis avoid non-aspirin NSAIDS, if possible. "Current recommendations do not advise people to stop aspirin, which they may be taking to protect their cardiovascular system. Increased risk of diverticulitis from aspirin is lower than with NSAIDS."

Vitamins and supplements

Strate coauthored two recent human studies related to vitamin D and diverticulitis risk. Results of both studies suggest having adequate vitamin D levels might help reduce risk of diverticulitis. Your doctor can test your blood levels of vitamin D. Top food sources of vitamin D include salmon, fortified milk and eggs.

A 2014 study published in the International Journal of Colorectal Disease reported that diverticulosis patients taking 300 milligrams daily of supplemental butyrate -- a type of fat that nourishes colon cells -- for 12 months had a reduced incidence of diverticulitis compared to those given a placebo (7 percent versus 32 percent, respectively). This evidence is preliminary, so supplemental butyrate isn't a standard recommendation for diverticulitis prevention, although it could be tried with your doctor's guidance. BodyBio Cal-Mag Butyrate and Ecological Formulas Butyric Acid are two brands consumers can buy.

Probiotic supplements have received little study in diverticulosis, and the AGA doesn't include probiotics in its recommendations for reducing recurrence of diverticular complications. However, they may support gut health in general.

(Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date, accurate information about health and nutrition in clear, concise English. For more information, visit www.environmentalnutrition.com.)