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The Soft & Bland Diet

May 4, 2011 | By Abigail Adams

Soft, bland diets help the gastrointestinal tract heal and rest while also providing better nutrition than other diets, such as a liquid diet. A soft, bland diet may be a temporary way of eating or a permanent lifestyle change, depending on your medical condition. Follow instructions given to you by your physician or nutritionist to determine how long you need to remain on a soft, bland diet.

Reasons for a Soft, Bland Diet

Medical conditions may require a soft, bland diet to help a person recover or feel better. Short-term illnesses, such as a stomach virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, may benefit from a soft, bland diet. Conditions that can cause sores in the mouth, such as chickenpox, may benefit from eating a soft, bland diet. Additional conditions that may need this diet include stomach ulcers, heartburn and intestinal gas. These conditions may affect a person temporarily or become chronic. When recovering from intestinal surgery, you may need a soft, bland diet.

Foods to Eat

Foods on a soft, bland diet include foods with a soft texture and a bland taste. These foods also have little or no fiber. Foods acceptable on a soft, bland diet include items you can easily smash up before eating, such as cooked vegetables, applesauce and eggs. Soft fruits, such as bananas, are good options for this diet. Cooked cereals, tender meats, creamy peanut butter, soup, white rice and low-fat dairy foods are acceptable on a soft, bland diet. Beverages you can drink include weak tea, fruit juice, vegetable juice and low-fat milk.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods are not acceptable on a soft, bland diet. You should avoid any foods that are spicy, raw and fried. Beverages to avoid include alcoholic drinks and caffeinated drinks because these may irritate the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Although acceptable on a bland diet, low-fat milk products may worsen symptoms such as diarrhea. Stop eating or drinking items that cause irritation to your stomach or intestines. Additional foods to avoid on a soft, bland diet include raw vegetables, dried fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Avoid eating vegetables that may cause gas, such as cauliflower, broccoli and green pepper.

Considerations

While on a soft, bland diet, how you eat is as important as what you eat. Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to avoid eating large quantities at one sitting. Take small bites and chew well before swallowing. Avoid eating for two hours before you lie down for bed.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: May 4, 2011

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