A bland diet is used to treat people with certain gastrointestinal conditions such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, acid reflux, dysphagia, gastritis and ulcers. This diet may also be recommended after certain types of stomach or intestinal surgery. A bland diet emphasizes foods that are soft, not spicy and low in fiber. Some specific foods and beverages are allowed and others should be avoided. Although a bland diet will not cure gastrointestinal distress, it will allow the digestive system to rest and minimize uncomfortable symptoms.
Purpose
A bland diet includes food that is nonstimulating, non-irritating and mildly seasoned. This diet is individualized according to your diagnosis, appetite, food tolerance and recovery time. You should eat food in small bites and chew food thoroughly. A bland diet can be nutritionally adequate; the texture of foods is simply modified for easier digestion. Choose a variety of foods, balancing your intake throughout the day. Eat slowly, taking 20 to 30 minutes to finish a meal. Eat at least two hours before lying down or sleeping.
Foods to Eat
A bland diet focuses on tender foods such as cooked vegetables, canned fruits and refined grains. Foods that are allowed include low-fat dairy products; cooked, canned or frozen vegetables; cooked or canned fruit with no skin or seeds such as apple sauce or canned peaches; 100 percent fruit or vegetable juices; toast, rice, crackers and pasta made from refined white flours; cereals such as oatmeal and Cream of Wheat; lean and tender meats, poultry and fish that are steamed, baked or grilled; peanut butter; eggs; tofu; soup and weak tea.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid foods that are spicy, high in fat or high in fiber. You should not drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, gas-producing vegetables, tomato products, strong cheeses, fried foods, pizza, chips, smoked or cured meats, pickled foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, berries, whole grains and full-fat dairy products. You should also avoid certain seasonings and condiments, including peppermint, pepper, garlic, barbecue sauce, chili sauce, black pepper, horseradish and coconut. These foods may irritate your stomach and aggravate symptoms.
Considerations
Be sure to eat small, frequent meals and sip liquids slowly. Keep a list of foods that bother you and the symptoms they cause. Eliminate foods that cause you to not feel well even if they are on the list of allowed foods. It is important to work closely with your dietitian or physician to plan a diet that adequately meets your nutritional needs. They will assist you in determining when it is appropriate to begin eating regular foods again.
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