Fiber is the non-digestible portion of plant foods. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel, which slows digestion. Consuming soluble fiber in the diet is associated with lowering cholesterol, which may reduce the risk for heart disease. Insoluble fiber speeds up bowel function and promotes regularity by adding bulk to the stool. Fiber is found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and dried beans.
Appropriate Audience
People with Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, undergoing radiation therapy or preparing for a colonscopy may benefit from following a fiber-restricted diet. These conditions involve inflammation, abdominal pain or ulcers in the lining of the intestines and may result with frequent emptying of the bowels.
Function
The purpose of restricting fiber in the diet is to decrease the frequency and volume of stools, thus reducing irritation to the intestinal tract. When the intestinal tract is given ample rest time, healing may occur. When viewing the Nutrition Facts Panel, look for foods that contain 0 to 1 gram of total fiber per serving.
Features
All whole-grain products, fresh fruits, vegetables, prune juice, dried beans and dried fruit are eliminated when following a fiber-restricted diet. Milk, yogurt without added fiber or fruit, cheese, refined bread products, fruit juice except prune, canned vegetables and fruits, vegetable juice, meat, chicken, pork, fish, smooth peanut butter, fats, oils and eggs are foods allowed on the fiber-restricted diet. Limiting fat, lactose and sugar may also provide benefits in reducing the frequency of bowel movements.
Duration
A fiber-restricted diet should be used until symptoms resolve or lessen. At that time, it is recommended to discuss diet progression with a physician or registered dietitian. He or she will likely encourage fiber intake to be increased slowly to the appropriate Dietary Reference Intake of 21 to 38 grams per day.
Considerations
Long-term adherence to a fiber-restricted diet may lead to constipation, hemorrhoids and bloating. Drinking fluids may aid these symptoms. When reintroducing fiber into the diet, increase intake slowly over two to three weeks to reduce gas, bloating and cramps. Because fiber can make you feel fuller faster, eliminating it from the diet may lead to overeating and weight gain.
