Because fiber has many health benefits, a low-fiber diet isn’t a good idea for most people.
“Most of the time, following a low-fiber diets is a short-term strategy, because fiber is important for everything from gut to heart and metabolic health,” says Kaytee Hadley, RDN, a registered dietitian-nutritionist specializing in digestive health and the owner of Holistic Health and Wellness, a private nutrition practice in Richmond, Virginia.
You should only attempt a low-fiber diet if a healthcare provider recommends it and gives you guidance on which foods to eat and avoid for your particular symptoms or condition.
Here are some reasons why your healthcare provider might recommend a low-fiber diet.
Symptom Management for Digestive Issues
Management of an Intestinal Blockage
In this case, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian. They can recommend sources of fiber you may be able to tolerate, so that you don’t miss out on the health benefits, Yaceczko says.
Surgery Prep
Your physician may prescribe a low-fiber diet in the days before any procedure that involves the colon or rectum, like a colonoscopy or a bowel resection (a surgery that removes damaged parts of the colon or a colostomy that connects the large intestine to an opening in the abdominal wall).
A low-fiber diet helps ensure your colon is as clean and empty as possible before surgery, Schnoll-Sussman says.
Surgery Recovery
It’s often recommended to continue a low-fiber diet during recovery from a procedure involving the colon or rectum, Yaceczko says. Limiting fiber in the digestive tract post-surgery can aid the healing process and minimize uncomfortable symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.
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