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Fiber-Restricted Diets

Fiber is a part of grains, vegetables and fruits. The roughage is an indigestible portion of the food which travels through your system and loosens the stool. Eating a high fiber diet is generally advisable but in some cases doctors may prescribe reducing fiber intake to combat conditions like diarrhea. Before starting any diet program be sure to consult a physician.

  1. Health Problems

    • Following a low fiber diet can decrease the frequency and volume of bowel movements which can provide relief for people suffering from digestive distress. Post operative bowel surgery patients may want to restrict fiber intake to avoid digestive complications. The Mayo Clinic notes that individuals stricken by inflammatory bowel disease, known as IBD, or inflammation of the intestine might be advised to follow a fiber-restricted diet.

    Restricted Foods

    • The University of Mississippi Medical Center recommends you monitor lactose, fat, spices, caffeine and alcohol intake as these foods can increase bowel movements. Nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grain foods, all of which have high fiber content, are not allowed on a fiber-restricted diet. Stay away from wild or brown rice, popcorn, baked beans, coconut and dried peas or beans. Limit fruit consumption to a half cup or one small whole fruit each day. Lower-fiber diets may restrict fiber intake to under 10 grams daily.

    Allowed Foods

    • A fiber-restricted diets permit a small amount of cooked or canned vegetables, along with small amounts of fruits that are very ripe, or cooked or canned. The diet will permit processed carbohydrates like plain pasta, noodles, white rice, enriched white bread and cereals with no more than 1 gram of dietary fiber per serving. You can eat dairy products like, pudding, milk, cheese, yogurt or eggs and proteins like poultry, fish, and meat that is tender or ground. Dressings, oils and fats, margarine and mayonnaise are allowed.

    Risks

    • If you neglect following a prescribed low-fiber diet you run the risk of obstructing or irritating your digestive system. Stick to the diet regimen and once your digestive system has returned to normal it's okay to gradually bring higher fiber foods into your diet.

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