Low Fibre Diet

We have selected the following expert medical opinion based on its clarity, reliability and accuracy. Credits: Sourced from The University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (see below). Please refer to your own medical practitioner for a final perspective, assessment or evaluation.

What is a low fibre diet?

A low-fibre diet contains foods that don't create much waste (stool). This diet slows down your bowels and gives them a chance to rest.

Fibre is the part of plants that your body can't digest. It gives bulk to your diet and helps you feel full. It also helps you have regular bowel movements.

But a low-fibre diet is often needed after bowel surgery or when you have a flare-up of a bowel problem. You might be asked to follow this diet if you have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or another condition that can cause swelling, pain, or narrowing of your bowels.

In some cases, you may start with a liquid diet (no solid food) and then add low-fibre foods.

Depending on your health problem, you may eat low-fibre foods for just a short time. Or you may need to follow this diet for the rest of your life.

You may need to take extra vitamins and minerals while you're on this diet. Your doctor will let you know if you need these supplements.

What foods are okay to eat on a low-fibre diet?

You can eat most types of food on a low-fibre diet, including meats, white breads, and many fruits and vegetables. Your doctor can tell you how much fibre you can eat each day.

Here are some examples of low-fibre foods:

• Cooked red meat, fish, or poultry
• Eggs
• Dairy products, such as milk, ice cream, cheese, cottage cheese, and yogurt (as long as they don't contain fruits or nuts)
• Well-cooked fresh or canned vegetables that don't have skins or seeds.
• Lettuce
• Canned or cooked fruit with no skin or seeds
• Ripe bananas, melons, and peaches without skin
• Fruit juices without pulp
• Applesauce
• Refined white breads
• White rice or white pasta
• Saltine crackers

What foods should you NOT eat?

Here are some foods you should not eat while on a low-fibre diet:

• Whole grains, such as bran, oatmeal, and brown rice
• Whole wheat pasta
• Whole wheat or whole-grain breads
• Any foods that have seeds or nuts
• Any raw vegetables (except for lettuce)
• Foods that cause gas, such as brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower (raw or cooked)
• Corn
• Granola
• Lentils, split peas, and beans such as black or red beans
• Berries
• Dried fruit, such as prunes, raisins, or figs
• Raw fruit, except for ripe bananas, melons, and peaches without skin
• Popcorn

About the source

UPMC

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre (UPMC) is an integrated global non-profit health enterprise that is closely affiliated with its academic partner, the University of Pittsburgh. It is considered a leading American healthcare provider, as its flagship facilities have ranked in US News & World Report "Honour Roll" of the approximately 15 to 20 best hospitals in America for over 15 years.

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