12/05/2026
A low residue diet (also known as a low fibre diet) is often used during inflammatory bowel disease flares, for recovery after bowel surgery or when your gut feels more sensitive. It focuses on reducing fibre and certain foods that can increase bowel movements, irritation or discomfort.
This looks like choosing options that are easy to digest and lower in fibre. It is not meant for long-term use, but rather as a tool to help your gut settle before you gradually reintroduce fibre and variety again.
So how can you best adopt a low-residue diet
- Avoid wholegrain, high fibre breads and cereals - use white varieties where possible
- Remove stalks, stems, pips, seeds and skins from fruit and vegetables
- Avoid dried fruits, nuts and seeds
- Strain pulp from fruit/vegetable juices and soups
- Check the nutrition label on packaged foods - aim for fibre to be less than 3g per 100g
Save this post to help you understand which foods to focus on and avoid when on a low-residue diet!!