What is a bland diet, and does it have any real benefits?

What is a bland diet?

It refers to a simple diet that forbids any meals that could irritate the lining of the intestines. People who have had intestinal surgery or who suffer from conditions like acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or diarrhoea are frequently advised to follow this diet. According to experts, this diet is particularly beneficial for people who break out since the lack of spicy foods helps them heal more quickly.

Rules to follow

Make sure the meal you are eating has been baked, steamed, boiled, microwaved, roasted, or creamed equally. Steer clear of raw, blanched, and deep-fried foods. Experts advise against eating fruit and nut peels and recommend sticking to a basic diet that uses little salt and spice. Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking, and even aerated beverages. The bland diet encourages three to four meals each day, thus it should also discourage the random snacking on packaged food.

You can consume fruits and vegetables

Nutritionists recommend eating fresh produce such bananas, carrot potatoes, waxed beans, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. Apples and grapefruits are beneficial for gut health. Butter, mayonnaise, olive oil, buttermilk, low-fat yoghurt, and milk are all beneficial for gut health when it comes to dairy and oil. Additionally, you can choose from wheat bread, brown bread, rice noodles, and even cornbread if your diet calls for a significant amount of carbohydrates.

foods you should avoid

Avoid at all costs fried vegetables, potato wafers, broccoli, tomatoes, berries, and figs. Processed cheese should also be avoided, as should animal fat, high-calorie dressing, and coconut oil. Avoid full-fat dairy products, full-fat yoghurt, clove, garlic, ginger, sweet chilli sauce, strong lemon-based sauces, mustard seeds, and pickles.

example of a bland diet menu

One scrambled egg and some fresh fruit are acceptable breakfast options, according to experts. Avocado and spinach soup and cooked vegetables provide a tasty lunch alternative. Additionally, a glass of buttermilk can be had as an evening snack. Finally, a sweet potato salad with a low-calorie dressing can be served for supper.