Appendicitis – How to Prevent It by Eating Right

The appendix is a relatively small organ. It is 3.5 inches long and it is located at the meeting point of the large intestine with the small ones. For an easier recognition, it is located in the lower-right part of the abdomen.

Sometimes, this small organ can get blocked, swollen and infected. This is what doctors call appendicitis. It is an emergency and it requires the immediate removal of the appendix. If action is not taken immediately, it can break and release all the bacteria in the abdomen. It can be a lethal if strong antibiotics are not administrated.

The first symptom is a dull pain in the abdominal area, near the belly button. It will get more severe as it is going to move into the lower part of the abdomen. The pain can also be felt in the back and the rectum. Here are other symptoms to look for:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen abdomen
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Difficulty in passing gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dysuria
• Abdominal cramps

Up until now, there has not been discovered a medical solution that would prevent appendicitis. It all comes from what we eat, this is why the best way to prevent this condition is to pay attention to the foods you eat. Here are the main foods that should not lack from your diet:

• Fruits – A diet that is high in fibers will significantly lower the chances of getting appendicitis . The fibers will stimulate the elimination of the feces and toxins, which will impede the blocking of the appendix.
• Vegetables – Just like in the case of fruits, vegetables are also filled with fibers. The dark leafy greens are the richest in these compounds. Peas, carrots, potatoes or beans are also loaded with fibers. Try to include cruciferous vegetables in your diet, as well. Kale, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, arugula or radish, they are all waiting to be tried on!
• Whole grains – If you aim at keeping your gut in the best possible condition and to prevent appendicitis, then whole grains are a perfect choice. Make sure that you are getting the necessary amounts of brown rice, corn, oats, granola, pasta, whole grain bread or buckwheat.
• Anti-inflammatory foods – Since the inflammation is the main cause of so many chronic diseases, appendicitis included, it is a great idea to start including in your diet some foods that have the power to keep this malign process at bay. Eat olive oil, turmeric, garlic, onion, green tea or oily fish anytime you like.

It is always better to prevent than to treat and even though, in the case of appendicitis, there hasn’t been discovered a method of prevention yet, having a healthy diet will have a positive impact on your body. Who knows how many other conditions you will be able to keep at bay?