The use of probiotics in diverticulitis is primarily supported by a small but growing body of scientific evidence, rather than longstanding tradition. Diverticulitis is characterized by inflammation or infection of diverticula in the colon. The rationale for probiotic use centers on the idea that altering gut microbiota may reduce inflammation and help prevent recurrence.

Several small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have investigated probiotics as adjunct therapy for both acute uncomplicated diverticulitis and for prevention of recurrence. Some studies report that probiotics can help restore normal gut flora disrupted during an episode of diverticulitis and may reduce symptoms such as bloating, pain, and bowel irregularity. However, the quality of evidence is generally low to moderate, with significant heterogeneity in probiotic strains, dosages, and study designs.

Current major clinical guidelines do not strongly recommend probiotics for diverticulitis due to insufficient high-quality data. A 2022 review in Frontiers in Medicine and the American Gastroenterological Association both conclude that while probiotics are safe for most patients, there is not enough evidence to support routine use in diverticulitis management or prevention. Thus, scientific interest exists, but supporting evidence is currently limited and inconclusive.