In a message dated 98-07-14 18:21:14 EDT, you write:

<< oes anyone else on a paleo diet also have diverticulitis?  do i really have
 to eat grains?  do i really have to get these prescriptions filled? >>

Jo Ann,

I would tell your doctor to eat the grains and take the drugs and call you in
the morning!

You need to improve the health of your intestines, so please do the following
stretches will facilitate the movement of material through your intestines.

1.  Sit on a chair and cross your legs, wrapping them twice if possible, and
then extend your arms out in front of you.  Then cross your arms at the
elbows, and then wrap them around each other again so that your arms are like
two intertwined snakes, palms together and fingers pointing toward the
ceiling.  Then resist by pushing your hands together, pulling your shoulders
down, and pulling your elbows into each other.  This will effect your large
intestine, and is great to do while working on a bowel movement.  As is the
following...

2. Simply sit and hold both arms out in front of you, palms pushing together,
shoulders pulling down, and all the while you are trying to keep your
shoulders down while trying to raise your hands with your arms straight.
You'll get this in your shoulders and around your scapulas, and it will effect
your small intestine.

Then, I'd say stay away from grains that become lodged in your intestines, and
stay away from all flour products.  Eat plenty of raw fruits and vegetables
with their fiber intact.  Walk, Walk, Walk and try to eat lightly at dinner.
When you have a bowel movement, raise your feet in some way, so that your
posture is more like squatting, and this will help facilitate the movement out
of your bowels.  I have read that acidopholis bacteria is good for this
'disease' of diet, so stay away from antibiotics that will only kill whatever
good bacteria is left in your body.  I have also read that garlic and fish is
helpful.  And perhaps take enzyme supplements to help digest any cooked food
that you eat.

That's what I'd do if I were in your shoes, anyway...

Also, fresh juice in the morning with fruit seems to stimulate my bowels,
perhaps water would do the same.  And drink plenty of water or fresh juices.

good luck,

aaron