What is Bland Diet
Bland diet consists of foods that do not have a lot of fat or fiber. Foods without fat or fiber are easier for the body to digest.
They are also less likely to irritate your mouth, throat, stomach, and other parts of your gastrointestinal tract. A bland diet is sometimes called a BRAT diet.
What is my plan?
Your health care provider or dietitian may recommend specific changes to your diet to prevent and treat your symptoms, such as:
- Eating small meals often.
- Cooking food until it is soft enough to chew easily.
- Chewing your food well.
- Drinking fluids slowly.
- Not eating foods that are very spicy, sour, or fatty.
- Not eating citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruit.
What do I need to know about this diet?
- Eat a variety of foods from the bland diet food list.
- Do notfollow a bland diet longer than you have to.
- Ask your health care provider whether you should take vitamins.
What foods can I eat?
Grains
Hot cereals, such as cream of wheat. Bread, crackers, or tortillas made from refined white flour. Rice.
Vegetables
Canned or cooked vegetables. Mashed or boiled potatoes.
Fruits
Bananas. Applesauce. Other types of cooked or canned fruit with the skin and seeds removed, such as canned peaches or pears.
Meats and Other Protein Sources
Scrambled eggs. Creamy peanut butter or other nut butters. Lean, well-cooked meats, such as chicken or fish. Tofu. Soups or broths.
Dairy
Low-fat dairy products, such as milk, cottage cheese, or yogurt.
Beverages
Water. Herbal tea. Apple juice.
Sweets and Desserts
Pudding. Custard. Fruit gelatin. Ice cream.
Fats and Oils
Mild salad dressings. Canola or olive oil.
The items listed above may not be a complete list of allowed foods or beverages. Contact your dietitian for more options.
What foods are not recommended?
Foods and ingredients that are often not recommended include:
- Spicy foods, such as hot sauce or salsa.
- Fried foods.
- Sour foods, such as pickled or fermented foods.
- Raw vegetables or fruits, especially citrus or berries.
- Caffeinated drinks.
- Alcohol.
- Strongly flavored seasonings or condiments.
The items listed above may not be a complete list of foods and beverages that are not allowed. Contact your dietitian for more information.
