Bland diets are important in treating a variety of medical conditions. MedlinePlus says that a bland diet is helpful in managing problems such as ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, vomiting and diarrhea. Following a bland diet can help ease you through a period of mouth pain because of cold sores, dental surgery or chemotherapy. Your doctor might also recommend that you eat a bland diet for a period of time following intestinal surgery.
Mild Foods
One of the most important characteristics of a bland diet is its lack of spice. Spicy foods can irritate the mouth, esophagus, stomach and intestinal tract. In particular, avoid garlic and chili spices, limit your intake of acidic tomato-based foods, and do not pepper your food excessively. Avoid foods that are high in spices, such as those found in Mexican or Indian foods, and instead choose low-spice options.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill recommends choosing a broth or cream-based soup instead of a spicy taco or minestrone soup. Choose mild cheeses, such as longhorn, instead of pepper jack. Eat baked or poached meats instead of those that are fried or heavily seasoned.
Soft Foods
Soft foods are easier for your body to process and cause less irritation to your digestive tract. Eat mashed potatoes, applesauce and low-fat custards or puddings. Choose scrambled eggs over fried or hard-boiled. Thoroughly cook green and yellow vegetables by steaming, boiling or cooking in a mild casserole until softened. For protein, the National Cancer Institute recommends avoiding fried and processed meat products, such as sausage or salami. Instead, eat creamy peanut butter; tender cuts of beef, chicken or lamb that are baked, broiled or roasted; and poached or baked fish.
Low-Fiber Foods
Diets high in fiber create bulk to help clear your digestive tract. But these foods can aggravate stomach or intestinal problems, and they can be difficult to swallow if your throat or esophagus is sore. Avoid foods that contain whole grains, such as whole fiber breads and cereals, or those that are high in fiber, such as legumes, nuts and raw fruit and vegetables.
Instead, the American Cancer Society recommends eating white bread, rice and pasta and choosing soft tofu, smooth peanut butter and lean cuts of meat or fish for protein. Drink fruit juice or eat well-ripened fruit with no seeds or skin. Cook vegetables well, and avoid vegetables with skin, stems or seeds.
Decaffeinated and Nonalcoholic Beverages
As part of a bland diet, your doctor may recommend that you avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. For example, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that alcohol and some caffeinated beverages can irritate conditions such as gastritis. Instead, drink water or fruit juices, or choose other decaffeinated, nonalcoholic drinks.
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