Case Study: Functional Nutrition Approach to Diverticulosis in Eugene, Oregon

Diverticulosis is a condition where small pouches (diverticula) form in the colon wall. While not always symptomatic, these pouches can cause significant pain, infections, and recurring digestive distress. In many cases, conventional medicine only offers antibiotics or surgery as solutions. This case study shows how a functional nutrition and holistic health approach supported a 57-year-old male client in Eugene, Oregon with recurring diverticulitis, low immunity, and chronic gut issues.

Case Background (Download Full Case Study)

The client presented with:

• Upper left quadrant abdominal pain

• Frequent illness and low immune function

• Recurring cough

• History of diverticulitis with multiple flares

• Major concern about needing a colostomy

Health history revealed:

• Difficult childhood, high anxiety in adulthood

• Multiple antibiotic courses from childhood through adulthood

• Smoking history

• Food poisoning followed by post-infectious IBS

• First diverticulitis flare 4 years prior, complicated by a C. difficile infection

• Three additional diverticulitis flares over 3 years

• Recommendation from his doctor to surgically remove a portion of his colon

Functional Nutrition Treatment Goals

With diverticulosis, the goals go beyond symptom management. My approach was to:

• Improve cardiovascular and metabolic health (closely linked with diverticulosis outcomes)

• Avoid known triggers: NSAIDs, smoking, red meat

• Decrease chronic low-grade inflammation

• Improve visceral hypersensitivity

• Optimize the colonic ecosystem

• Ensure sufficient butyrate production

• Support healthy motility and bowel function

Functional Testing

• GI Map Stool Test – to evaluate gut pathogens, microbiome balance, and digestive function

• MRT Food Sensitivity Test – to identify inflammatory food triggers

Initial Holistic Protocol (Pre-Lab)

• Motility & Soothing: Megaguard before meals, ¼ cup aloe juice before meals

• Digestion Support: Hydrozyme with meals

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Fish, well-cooked vegetables, tubers, soups, cooked fruits; avoidance of red meat and processed foods

• Lifestyle Habits: Mindful eating, no snacking after dinner, deep breathing before meals

Adjusted Protocol After Lab Results

• Probiotics: HU58, Saccharomyces boulardii for microbiome balance

• Immune Support: Mega IGG for immune function and toxin binding

• Inflammation Control: Omega-3 fatty acids

• Digestive Support: Enzymes, Hydrozyme (2 tablets with meals)

• Dietary Adjustments: Avoided MRT yellow foods for 3 months, strict gluten elimination

Results Over Time

After 1 month:

• Regular bowel movements

• Pain in upper left quadrant reduced

• Reintroduction of poultry and raw foods

After 2 months:

• Continued bowel regularity

• More dietary diversity, including legumes and whole grains

• Stress-related flares improved with daily walking

After 3 months (2nd stool test):

• Multi-strain probiotics (MegaSpore) introduced

• ZenBiome Dual added for gut-brain axis and anxiety support

• Mediterranean-style diet adopted with polyphenols, legumes, nuts, and green tea

After 5 months:

• No recurrence of diverticulitis

• Eating a wide variety of whole foods

• Able to socialize and eat without major restrictions

• Gut symptoms stable despite ongoing stress

Long-Term Holistic Plan

• Daily Supports: Megaguard, digestive enzymes, ZenBiome Sleep, Meriva Curcumin, Galactoimmune Powder, Florassist for motility

• Dietary Pattern: Mediterranean diet, low saturated fat, rich in fiber and polyphenols

• Lifestyle: Stress management, mindful eating, regular movement

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates how functional nutrition in Eugene, Oregon can address diverticulosis from a holistic perspective. By combining targeted testing, gut-healing nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes, this client avoided surgery and significantly improved his quality of life.

If you’re struggling with diverticulosis, IBS, or other gut health challenges, know that healing is possible. I specialize in functional nutrition and holistic gut repair right here in Eugene, Oregon. Reach out today or book your initial consultation to begin your path toward better digestive health.