What is it?

A low residue diet may be recommended for people with diverticulitis, during flare-ups of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis, or when there is a narrowing of the bowel. A low residue diet will decrease the amount and slow the movement of stool in the intestines. This may prevent blockage.

Many people think that a low residue diet and a low fiber diet are the same thing. Although they are similar, they are not exactly the same. Fiber is that part of plant foods that is not completely digested in the colon and contributes to stool. Residue includes that undigested fiber and any other food materials remaining in the colon after digestion that may increase stool output. A low fiber diet contains less than 10 grams of fiber per day and limits those foods known to increase the amount of stool. However, some low-fiber foods, such as milk, can actually increase residue or stimulate bowel movement. For that reason, a low residue diet has more restrictions than a low fiber diet.

When appropriate food choices are made, a low residue diet will provide the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). However, long-term use of a low residue diet may not provide the needed amounts of vitamin C or folic acid. If you must stay on this diet for a long period, a multivitamin or mineral supplement may be necessary. Check with your doctor or dietician for their recommendations.

This diet gives you a good variety of foods so it should not become tiresome. High-fiber or high-roughage foods are not used. Foods with some fiber in them (fruits and vegetables) should be well cooked. Milk does not have any fiber that you can see. Milk, however, does leave some residue in your colon after it is digested. This is why milk is limited to two cups a day.