Abdominal adhesions are fibrous bands of tissue which form between tissues of your abdomen and your internal organs, causing them to adhere to each other. Some adhesions may cause no problems, and you may not even be aware that you have them; others can cause serious complications, such as intestinal obstruction and infertility. The National Digestive Disorders Information Clearinghouse says that a partial intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions may be resolved by a special low-residue diet recommended by your doctor.
Abdominal Adhesion Features
Bowel, abdominal and gynecological surgery-- especially where incisions have been performed on internal organs -- are the primary cause of abdominal adhesions. According to the NDDIC, procedures in which internal organs have been handled or allowed to dry out are most likely to cause adhesions. Non-surgical causes include a ruptured appendix, radiation treatment, or gynecological and abdominal infections. Adhesions must be detected through exploratory surgery; they don't show up on X-rays or through computerized tomography. The main symptom of abdominal adhesions is abdominal or pelvic pain. The NDDIC notes that symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include severe abdominal cramping, vomiting, constipation, inability to pass gas, and a distended abdomen or bloating. Seek immediate medical care if you have these symptoms; full intestinal obstructions can be life threatening.
Low-Residue Diet Features
A low-residue diet is one in which indigestible carbohydrate intake is reduced. This reduces the frequency and size of bowel movements, while prolonging intestinal transit time, helping to decrease abdominal pain and diarrhea. A low-residue diet is, by definition, a low fiber diet. MayoClinic.com notes that low-residue diets don't provide the proper nutrients, and says they are only for short-term use as recommended by your doctor.
Low-Residue Diet Foods
Low-residue diet foods include refined breads, cereals, crackers, chips and pasta, as well as dairy products such as milk, fruit-free yogurt and ice cream. According to Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo, you should limit dairy products to two cups a day. MayoClinic.com notes that you should look for foods with less than a gram of fiber per serving, with 0g of fiber being optimal. Fruits and vegetables should only be taken in the form of juices with no pulp or seeds. Tender, well-cooked meats -- as well as poultry, fish and eggs -- are also good low-residue diet foods. You can also use seedless jelly, honey and syrup.
Foods to Avoid
Foods that should not be eaten on a low-residue diet include whole-grain breads, granolas, cereals and pastas, as well as seeds or nuts of any kind. You should also avoid whole raw fruits, vegetables and berries. The Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo says limited amounts of canned or cooked fruits may be permissible; check with your doctor. The website adds that you should avoid fibrous or gristly meat, as well as peas, beans and lentils, popcorn, and raisins.
Beverages
Drink decaffeinated coffee instead of regular; WCHOB says caffeine is a stomach irritant. Other permissible beverages include herb tea -- sweetened with honey if desired -- and caffeine-free sodas, as well as milk and fruit drinks.
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