Soft and semisoft foods include foods that easily mash when pressed with a fork. If you have trouble swallowing safely or are recovering from a certain type of surgery, such as gastric bypass or dental surgery, you will need a diet that contains soft foods. The soft texture of the foods allows you to eat without needing to bite, chew or move your jaw. A person on a soft diet usually requires foods that are bland and gentle on the stomach -- not spicy, gassy or fried.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetable options for a soft diet include any vegetables that turn soft and smooth when cooked, such as potatoes, carrots, squash and sweet potatoes. Many canned vegetables and soups are acceptable on a soft diet. Raw vegetables such as avocado are easy to chew. Cooked vegetables such as broccoli and bell pepper are semisoft foods, but they may cause gas in your stomach or intestines, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Applesauce and bananas are examples of soft fruits.
Dairy
Many dairy products are semisoft foods. The diary foods on this list include milk products such as ice cream, yogurt, pudding and cheeses. Many cheeses are semisoft but may also upset your stomach; therefore, eating cheese may be acceptable for a soft diet plan for you if you have chewing difficulties, but not if your stomach requires bland foods.
Meat, Eggs, Beans and Fish
Diced or ground meats, eggs, beans and flaky fish are semisoft foods that you can eat to incorporate protein into this modified diet. Add gravy to meats to help moisten them and soften their texture. Options for eggs include scrambled and soft-boiled. Cook dried peas and beans until they are soft.
Bread and Grains
Soft breads, noodles and cooked cereals provide options for you on a soft diet. Pancakes are easy to eat without chewing and are easy on your stomach. Another acceptable food includes cereal softened in milk, according to the Medical University of South Carolina. Whole grain breads may cause distress in your stomach or intestines.
References
- Simple Steps to Better Dental Health: Diet and Oral Health: A Vicious Circle for Some Seniors
- Medical University of South Carolina: MUSC Nutrition Services: Dietary Guidelines: Mechanical Soft Diet Guidelines
- MayoClinic.com: Gastric Bypass Diet
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: Nutrition
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Soft and Mechanical Soft Diet
