Lactose-free & Low-residue Diets

Doctors typically mandate a low residue diet for certain medical conditions like diverticulitis, where a reduction in the amount and frequency of stool you produce could assist in treatment. According to MayoClinic.com, "residue" refers to the material that is left behind in the intestinal tract after digestion, which ultimately becomes stool. Maintaining a lactose-free diet often coincides with adhering to a low-residue one, since a dairy allergy or intolerance can contribute to residue.

Fresh Produce

Fresh produce contributes to a low-residue diet. A diet high in vegetables and fruits provides sufficient nutrients to keep healthy while producing little residue. However, only certain vegetables and fruits will suffice. According to the Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, allowable vegetables include cooked or canned varieties of mushrooms, chard, carrots, beets, asparagus, pumpkin, artichoke hearts and cooked tomatoes. Vegetables on the "no" list include raw broccoli, squash, okra, onions, corn and beans. Allowable fruits include pulp-less juices, bananas, grapefruit, plums, and nectarines. Fruits you should avoid include prunes, apples, avocado, berries, figs and raisins.

Meats

Meat products contribute to a suitable low-residue and lactose-free diet. The Southern New Hampshire Medical Center suggests lean meats like pork, poultry, fish, shellfish and lamb. You may use all cooking methods except frying.

Lactose-Free Dairy

Food intolerance and allergies often stem from foods that contain lactose, like milk, cheese and ice cream; these are prohibited on a lactose-free diet. You may eat lactose-free alternatives, however. According to the Women & Children's Hospital of Buffalo, lactose-free milk, cheese, cottage cheese or substitutes such as soy milk or almond milk are allowed.

Grains

You can consume some grains on a low-residue, lactose-free diet According to the Southern New Hampshire Medical Center, allowable foods include cereal and some breads. However, you should avoid whole-grain products, as well as bran, oatmeal and nuts. High0fiber foods such as these can leave residue behind in the intestines.