Low Residue Diet: What You Need To Know

What Is a Low Residue Diet?

A low residue diet is a type of meal plan designed to reduce the amount of undigested material that passes through the large intestine. It involves limiting certain foods that are high in fiber, as well as other foods that can cause irritation or increase fecal output. This type of diet can be beneficial for people who suffer from digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, or Crohn’s disease. It can also be beneficial for people who are preparing for a medical procedure or test.

What Foods Should You Avoid on a Low Residue Diet?

A low residue diet includes avoiding high-fiber foods, such as whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, popcorn, and certain fruits and vegetables. You should also limit or avoid foods that can cause irritation, such as spicy foods and alcohol. Additionally, you should avoid processed foods, such as packaged snacks and fast food, as well as any foods that are difficult to digest, such as fried and fatty foods.

What Foods Can You Eat on a Low Residue Diet?

When following a low residue diet, you should focus on eating foods that are low in fiber and easy to digest. Some examples of these foods include:

White bread and other refined grains
Low-fiber fruits, such as applesauce and canned fruits
Low-fiber vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, and lettuce
Lean proteins, such as skinless chicken, fish, and eggs
Low-fat dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt

Sample Low Residue Diet Recipes

Grilled Chicken Breast

Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, Salt and pepper, to taste.

Instructions: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables.

Egg Salad

Ingredients: 6 hard-boiled eggs, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, Salt and pepper, to taste.

Instructions: Peel and chop the hard-boiled eggs. In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve on a bed of lettuce or with whole-grain crackers.

Salmon and Rice Bowl

Ingredients: 2 (4-ounce) skinless salmon fillets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, Salt and pepper, to taste, 1 cup cooked white rice.

Instructions: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through. Serve the salmon over cooked white rice.

Conclusion

A low residue diet can be beneficial for people who suffer from digestive issues, as well as people who are preparing for a medical procedure or test. This diet involves avoiding high-fiber foods, as well as foods that can cause irritation or increase fecal output. While on this diet, focus on eating foods that are low in fiber and easy to digest, such as white bread, low-fiber fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Additionally, you can try the sample recipes provided above.