A bland diet is recommended for people with sensitive digestive systems. The symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other stomach or intestinal ulcers can be minimized with an easy-to-digest meal plan. A bland diet avoids spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol and acidic items. Low-fat food and beverages are recommended because they are easier to digest; however, this can reduce overall calories. Small and frequent meals are necessary to ensure adequate intake.
Purpose
Reflux or heartburn occurs when the sphincter muscle between the esophagus and stomach does not close tightly or the pressure in the stomach is too much to be contained. Some people are prone to secreting more stomach or digestive acids than others. This is exacerbated by smoking and drinking alcohol. When acids come in contact with areas other than the stomach, there is a burning sensation as the cells are damaged. Long-term damage can cause a buildup of scar tissue and narrowing of the esophagus. Persons with chronic ulcers are at increased nutritional risk due to a limited diet, food restrictions and potential swallowing problems.
Prevention
Lose weight if you are overweight. Additional body fat contributes to pressure on the stomach, especially when lying down. Stop smoking if you smoke. Smoking stimulates stomach acid secretion. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and fried foods to reduce stomach acid secretions. Take medications as prescribed to reduce long-term damage.
Diet Basics
Small and frequent meals are best. This will reduce the total volume and pressure in the stomach. Foods should be low in spices, vinegar and acid. Highly seasoned foods, such as chili, tacos, sausage and curried dishes; pickles, salad dressings and marinades; and citrus foods, such as orange, lemon, grapefruit and tomato, should be avoided. Avoid fried foods. Choose low-fat dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and pudding. Use cooked, canned or frozen vegetables and fruits. Whole grain products, including bread, rice, pasta and cereal, can be used as tolerated, but large nuts, seeds and additives should be avoided. Lean meats, creamy peanut butter, eggs and tofu are all good choices. Avoid chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks.
Increasing Calories
Eat six to eight mini-meals per day. All food and beverages should be selected carefully to include the most nutritious and calorically dense options. Fat is a calorie-rich source of energy but should be used cautiously due to the affect on stomach pressure. Nonfat dry milk (NFDM) powder added to low-fat dairy products, cooked cereals, eggs and any other foods is an inexpensive way to add protein and calories to each bite of food. Jelly, honey, syrup and other sweets can add calories and enjoyable flavoring. Flavored instant breakfast mixes added to milk or pre-mixed liquid meal options provide nutrients in assorted flavors but should be used only as a supplement to meals.
Sample Meal Suggestions
Planning the whole day of small meals may help include a variety of nutrient-dense, low-fat, high-calorie bland foods. Carry snacks so you have something available to eat all the time. Sample meals might include the following: scrambled eggs with NFDM, toast with jelly or peanut butter; cottage cheese with NFDM and canned fruit; plain yogurt with NFDM, sliced and peeled peach, cinnamon, honey and crackers; oatmeal with NFDM, applesauce and maple syrup; hard-boiled eggs; sliced turkey and low-fat cheese sandwich with lettuce; lean ground beef or turkey patty with egg noodles, low fat gravy and cooked carrots; and puffed rice cereal with low-fat milk, NFDM and sliced banana. Beverages should be consumed after each meal and throughout the day in sips. Decaffeinated, nonacidic, nonalcoholic, noncarbonated choices, such as plain or flavored water, decaf coffee or tea, low-fat milk, apple or cranberry juice, are suggested.
Warning
Tell your doctor if you experience serious heartburn more than twice per week. Maintaining good nutritional status is crucial to healing and preventing further complications. A registered dietitian can help you plan a diet more specific to your preferences and concerns.
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