What Is a Low Fiber Diet? A Complete 2025 Guide
Fiber usually gets a gold star in the nutrition world – and for good reason. It helps keep digestion smooth, supports heart health, and keeps you feeling full. So it might seem a little strange to hear that, in some cases, less fiber is actually better.
A low fiber diet is typically used for specific medical reasons. This includes things like managing a flare-up of Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, recovering from surgery, or preparing for a procedure like a colonoscopy1.
It’s not meant to be a long-term plan for most people. Plus it’s very different from trends like the carnivore diet, which cuts out whole food groups and can come with serious risks.
On a low fiber diet, the goal is to eat under 10 grams of fiber a day. That’s a big drop from the usual daily recommendation, but it can give your digestive system a much-needed rest when things are irritated or healing. Let’s take a closer look at when this kind of diet makes sense, and how to do it in a way that still feels manageable.
What Is a Low Fiber Diet? 🤔
Let’s break it down. A low fiber diet, sometimes called a low residue diet, is exactly what it sounds like: eating foods that leave less behind in your digestive system2. “Residue” just means the stuff your body doesn’t fully digest – mainly fiber3. The goal here is to reduce the workload on your gut, giving it time to rest and heal.
Doctors might recommend this kind of eating plan if your digestive tract is inflamed, blocked, or recovering from a procedure4. That includes situations like prepping for a colonoscopy, healing from bowel surgery, or managing conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, or bowel obstructions5 6.
It’s also sometimes used during radiation treatment for certain cancers. In these cases, too much fiber can make symptoms worse. It can cause pain, bloating, or diarrhea.
Here’s a quick fiber 101: there are 2 main types of fiber; soluble and insoluble. On a low fiber diet, both are limited, but especially the rougher, insoluble kind.
Soluble Fiber | Insoluble Fiber |
Dissolves in water and forms a gel 💧 | Doesn’t dissolve – adds bulk to stool 🧱 |
Slows digestion 🐢 | Speeds up movement through the gut 🏃♂️ |
Gentler on the digestive system 🤍 | Can be irritating to an inflamed gut 😣 |
Found in oats, bananas, peeled apples 🍌, white rice 🍚 | Found in wheat bran 🌾, whole grains 🍞, raw veggies 🥦, fruit skins 🍎 |
Goals of a Low Fiber Diet 🎯
So, why cut back on fiber in the first place? It all comes down to giving your digestive system a bit of a break.
The main goal of a low fiber diet is to slow things down in your gut. That means fewer bowel movements, and ideally, less irritation along the way. When your intestines are inflamed, recovering, or just overly sensitive, all that natural “roughage” from fiber can actually make things worse.
This kind of diet can also help ease common symptoms like cramping, bloating, and diarrhea. Especially during flare-ups of conditions like Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, or diverticulitis. For some people, even just a few days on a low fiber plan can bring noticeable relief.
And if you’re preparing for a colonoscopy or bowel surgery, eating low fiber foods helps clear out the digestive tract so doctors can get a better view, or perform a procedure more safely.
What About the Carnivore Diet? 🥩
You’ve probably seen people bragging about going years without eating a single gram of fiber. They might say they only go to the bathroom once a week and feel great. This is usually tied to the carnivore diet: a way of eating that focuses only on animal-based foods, cutting out fruits, vegetables, grains – basically, anything with fiber7.
Let’s be clear: this is not the same thing as a low fiber diet. A medically recommended low fiber diet is used short-term, in very specific situations, to support healing or prep the body for a procedure. It’s not a lifestyle, and it’s definitely not meant to replace a balanced, nutrient-rich way of eating.
Fiber plays a critical role in long-term health. It supports gut health, keeps your digestion regular, feeds the good bacteria in your microbiome, and helps lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Skipping it entirely is a red flag, not a health hack8.
Low Fiber Diet Foods – What to Eat & Avoid 🍴
When you're sticking to a low fiber diet, it's important to watch your fiber intake closely. Aim for foods that contain no more than 1 to 2 grams of fiber per serving. That keeps you within the guidelines while still getting the nutrients you need.
Foods to Eat ✅
Here are some go-to options that fit the bill:
Refined grains: White bread, pasta, bagels, and white rice. These are all easy on the digestive system because they’ve been stripped of fiber.
Lean proteins: Think eggs, tender cuts of meat (like chicken, ham, or turkey), or tofu. These are easy to digest and won’t add extra fiber.
Cooked/peeled fruits and vegetables: Bananas, applesauce, and cooked carrots or potatoes (peeled) are good options because cooking softens the fiber, and peeling removes part of it.
Dairy: If your body tolerates dairy, options like milk, yogurt, or cheese can be a good source of protein and calcium without much fiber.
Foods to Avoid ❌
On the flip side, there are some foods you’ll want to limit or skip:
Food | Why to Avoid |
🌾 Whole grains, bran, nuts, seeds | Very high in fiber – can irritate a sensitive gut |
🥦 Raw veggies, raw fruits, dried fruits | Tough to digest – opt for cooked and peeled versions |
🥫 Legumes, lentils, beans | Packed with fiber but often cause gas or bloating |
🥩 Tough meats or gristly cuts | Harder to digest – stick with tender, lean cuts |
🌽 Corn and coconut | High in fiber and often trigger digestive discomfort |
🍫 Fiber-enriched snacks and drinks | Seem healthy, but added fiber can sneak up on you |
Tips for Following a Low Fiber Diet 💡
Sticking to a low fiber diet can feel like a bit of a shift, especially if you're used to loading up on veggies and whole grains. But with a few simple strategies, it’s totally manageable.
Peel fruits and vegetables: 🥕 A lot of fiber lives in the skin, so peeling apples, carrots, potatoes, and similar produce can help make them easier on your gut.
Skip the skins, seeds, and membranes: 🍅 That includes things like tomato skins, citrus membranes, and tiny seeds in berries. They might seem harmless, but they can be rough on a healing digestive system.
Cook food well: 🍳 Heat breaks down some types of fiber, so cooking vegetables until they’re soft (steamed, boiled, or roasted) makes them gentler and easier to digest.
Try juicing: 🍋 Juicing fruits and veggies can extract some nutrients while leaving most of the fiber behind. Just keep an eye on sugar content if you're drinking a lot of juice.
Read food labels carefully: 🔍 Some packaged foods – especially "health" products – sneak in added fiber. Check for things like inulin, chicory root, flaxseed, or "added fiber" on the label.
Stay hydrated: 💧 With less fiber moving things along, drinking plenty of fluids is extra important. Water helps keep digestion running smoothly.
Rethink “healthy” snacks: 🥤 Just because it’s trendy doesn’t mean it’s low fiber. Chia puddings, flaxseed crackers, kale chips, and green smoothies may be nutrient-dense, but they’re often way too fibrous for this kind of plan.
Blend or puree veggies: 🍲 Blending cooked vegetables into soups or smoothies can make them easier to digest. Think smooth, not chunky, and your gut will thank you.
Low Fiber Diet & Additional Dietary Considerations
Going low fiber can be tricky on its own. But if you’re also managing other dietary needs, it adds another layer. Whether you’re dealing with blood sugar concerns, lactose intolerance, or following a plant-based diet, here’s how to make it work without stressing your system.
Challenge 💬 | Why It’s Tough 😬 | What You Can Try ✅ |
Managing blood sugar (e.g. diabetes) 🩸 | Many low fiber foods—like white bread and rice—can spike blood sugar more quickly. | Choose low fiber options with some protein or fat (like eggs + toast) to slow digestion. Opt for smaller, balanced meals. |
Lactose intolerance 🧀 | Dairy is often a staple in low fiber diets, but not everyone can tolerate it. | Try lactose-free milk, hard cheeses, or non-dairy alternatives like soy or oat milk (check for low fiber versions). |
Plant-based diets 🌱 | Many plant proteins (like beans, lentils, whole grains) are naturally high in fiber. | Focus on lower-fiber options like tofu, white rice, smooth nut butters (no chunks), and well-cooked peeled veggies. |
These adjustments can help keep your symptoms in check while still meeting your individual dietary needs. A registered dietitian can also help you personalize your plan if you're juggling multiple goals at once.
Meal Planning & Sample Menu 🥄
Planning meals on a low fiber diet doesn’t have to be complicated – or expensive. In fact, many of the staples (like rice, potatoes, and eggs) are pretty budget-friendly. And since simple, well-cooked meals are key, batch-cooking can be a big help.
Here’s a sample day to give you an idea of what low fiber eating might look like:
Meal | What to Eat |
Breakfast | Scrambled eggs with white toast 🥚🍞 |
Lunch | Chicken soup with white rice 🍲 |
Dinner | Baked salmon with mashed potatoes 🐟🥔 |
Snacks | Yogurt, pudding, or plain crackers (no seeds or whole grains) 🍦🧀 |
Nutritional Considerations ⚠️
A low fiber diet can be helpful in the short term. However, it does come with some nutritional trade-offs, so it's good to be aware of the bigger picture.
🥦 Missing Nutrients?
When you cut back on fiber, you often cut back on a lot of the good stuff that comes with it. These include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in fruits, veggies, legumes, and whole grains. If your low fiber diet is going to last more than a few days, your doctor or dietitian might suggest supplements to help you stay balanced.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Fiber helps move things along, but without it, your digestion can slow down. That’s why it’s extra important to drink plenty of fluids – especially water. Staying well hydrated can help prevent constipation, which is a common side effect when fiber is low.
🍽 Other Dietary Needs
Perhaps you’re also managing conditions like diabetes. In this case, finding low fiber foods that don’t spike your blood sugar can be tricky. Try pairing refined carbs (like white rice or bread) with protein and healthy fats to help slow the rise. It’s not perfect, but it can help you stay more stable. As always, check with your doctor about concerns you have with any changes to your diet.
👩⚕️ One Size Doesn’t Fit All
This type of eating plan isn’t meant to be forever. A low fiber diet is typically a short-term tool to help your gut rest and recover. Once symptoms improve or the procedure has passed, fiber is usually reintroduced – gently and gradually9.
Practical Challenges & Solutions 🔧
Eating a low fiber diet isn’t always straightforward. Especially when life gets busy or social plans come into play. But with a few smart strategies, you can stay on track without feeling totally restricted. Here are some top tips to help you navigate real-life situations while keeping your gut happy.
Reintroducing Fiber Safely ❤️🩹
Once you're ready to start adding fiber back into your diet, it’s important to do it gradually. Recommended fiber intake for most adults is about 25-38 grams per day, but most of us aren’t getting enough10. Here’s how to reintroduce fiber without upsetting your system11:
Step-by-Step Guide for Post-Restriction Phases
Step | What to Do | Why It Helps |
1️⃣ Start with soft, water-soluble fibers | Try oats, bananas, or peeled apples 🍌 | Gentle on digestion and usually well-tolerated |
2️⃣ Add gut-friendly fibers slowly | Cooked carrots or avocados 🥕🥑 | Supports the microbiome without overwhelming your system |
3️⃣ Include cooled starchy foods | Cooled rice or potatoes 🥔❄️ | Helps feed good gut bacteria through natural fermentation |
4️⃣ Ease in rougher fibers | Try well-cooked leafy greens or peeled, roasted veggies 🥬 | Promotes regularity without irritating the gut |
5️⃣ Monitor and adjust | Keep an eye on symptoms and go slow if needed 👀 | Helps you find your personal balance and avoid setbacks |
FAQ
What can I eat on a low fiber diet?
On a low fiber diet, focus on soft, easy-to-digest foods with less than 1-2 grams of fiber per serving. This includes white bread, plain pasta, white rice, lean meats, eggs, dairy (if tolerated), and cooked or peeled fruits and vegetables like bananas or applesauce.
What are the best low fiber diet foods for breakfast?
Good low fiber breakfast options include scrambled eggs, white toast, plain bagels, yogurt, cream of wheat, or bananas. Smoothies made with peeled fruit and yogurt can also work if blended well. Just avoid whole grains, high-fiber cereals, and fruit with skin or seeds. Check out our sample menu for ideas on what to eat in a day.
Can I ever eat high-fiber foods again?
Yes, most low fiber diets are short-term and meant to help your gut heal. Once you’re cleared by your doctor or dietitian, fiber can be gradually reintroduced. Start with gentle, soluble fiber sources like oats, peeled apples, or cooked carrots. Add rougher options slowly, keeping an eye on how your body responds. Reintroducing fiber too quickly may cause bloating or discomfort.
How do I avoid nutrient deficiencies?
Because many high-fiber foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, a low fiber diet can lead to gaps in nutrition. To avoid deficiencies, focus on nutrient-dense low fiber foods and consider a multivitamin or specific supplements. Especially if you're on the diet longer than a few days. Always speak to a healthcare professional about supplementation.
What if I accidentally eat high-fiber food?
Don’t panic. One meal with extra fiber is unlikely to cause serious harm. If you’re managing a condition like a bowel obstruction or post-surgery recovery, monitor how you feel and call your doctor if symptoms worsen. Going forward, follow these tips for following a low fiber diet successfully.
Is it safe to eat a carnivore diet?
The carnivore diet isn’t recommended by medical professionals. Cutting out fiber entirely long-term can harm your digestive health, increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies, and negatively impact your gut microbiome. A low fiber diet is a short-term medical tool, not a lifestyle. For long-term health, fiber from a variety of plant foods is essential.
References
1.https://stanfordhealthcare.org/content/dam/SHC/for-patients-component/programs-services/clinical-nutrition-services/docs/pdf-lowfiberdietfordiverticulitis.pdf
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/low-fiber-diet
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557693/
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5372922/
5. https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/patientsandcaregivers/what-is-crohns-disease
6. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/diverticulitis
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32833688/
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7589116/
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36786062/
10. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf
11. https://plr.cht.nhs.uk/download/938/Reintroducing%20Fibre%20into%20your%20Diet%20A4
