What Foods Are Good For Peritonitis Recovery?

January 8, 2026 •

3 min read

According to a study published in 2007, patients with malnutrition on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) experience significantly higher rates of peritonitis compared to those with good nutrition. Proper nutrition is therefore a critical component of treatment and recovery for peritonitis.

Quick Summary

A proper diet for peritonitis focuses on hydration, high-quality protein, and gradual reintroduction of nutrients. Initial stages may require clear liquids and low-fiber foods, progressing to nutrient-dense options like lean protein, cooked vegetables, and probiotics, while avoiding high-sodium and processed foods.

Key Points

Start with clear liquids: In the initial recovery phase, stick to water, broth, and clear juices to avoid irritating a sensitive digestive system.
Introduce low-fiber, soft foods gradually: Progress to easily digestible foods like white rice, mashed potatoes, and tender cooked vegetables as your gut tolerates them.
Prioritize high-quality protein: During peritonitis, the body loses protein, so consuming lean meat, fish, poultry, and eggs is crucial for tissue repair and fighting infection.
Include anti-inflammatory antioxidants: Add colorful fruits and vegetables, like berries and bell peppers, to your diet to combat inflammation and boost immune health.
Consume probiotics after antibiotics: After antibiotic treatment, fermented foods like yogurt or kefir can help restore healthy gut bacteria.
Avoid high-sodium, fatty, and processed foods: Limit salt to manage fluid retention and avoid fatty, spicy, or fried foods that can cause discomfort.
Stay hydrated: Ensure adequate fluid intake, especially if undergoing dialysis, but be mindful of restrictions and salt intake.

Nutritional Priorities During Peritonitis

Peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal lining, requires specialized nutritional support to aid recovery and prevent complications. The specific dietary plan depends on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health, but common themes include a focus on high protein intake, adequate hydration, and managing specific nutrients like salt, potassium, and phosphorus. Post-surgery, the gut can be very sensitive, requiring a phased dietary approach, often starting with liquids and moving toward more solid foods over time.

Initial Diet: Clear Liquids and Low-Fiber Foods

In the immediate aftermath of treatment, especially if surgery was involved, the digestive system needs time to recover. A gradual reintroduction of food minimizes irritation and promotes healing.

Phase 1: Clear Liquids

Water and clear broths
Clear fruit juices without pulp, such as apple juice
Plain gelatin and ice pops
Herbal tea without milk

Phase 2: Soft, Low-Fiber Foods

Plain white rice and pasta
Mashed potatoes and applesauce
Well-cooked, tender vegetables without skin or seeds, such as carrots and green beans
Tender meats, fish, and eggs
Refined white bread and crackers

High-Protein and Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Ongoing Recovery

Once tolerance for food improves, the focus shifts to providing ample protein and anti-inflammatory nutrients to support tissue repair and immune function.

High-Quality Protein Sources

Lean Meats and Poultry: Chicken breast, turkey, and lean cuts of beef provide essential amino acids.
Fish: Excellent source of protein, with oily fish like salmon and mackerel offering omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation.
Eggs: A complete protein source, easy to digest.
Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu, edamame, and lentils (if well-tolerated and reintroduced gradually).

Anti-Inflammatory and Nutrient-Dense Foods

Fruits and Vegetables: A variety of fresh or cooked fruits and vegetables, like berries, leafy greens, squash, and bell peppers, are packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
Probiotics: Fermented dairy products like yogurt or kefir can help restore beneficial gut bacteria, especially important after a course of antibiotics.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides healthy fats for energy and inflammation management.
Whole Grains (if tolerated): Gradually reintroducing whole grains like oats and brown rice can provide energy and fiber as digestion improves.

Comparison of Diets: Low-Fiber vs. Recovery Diet


Feature	Low-Fiber (Initial) Diet	Recovery (Long-Term) Diet
Focus	Reducing gastrointestinal irritation and stress.	Providing high-protein, anti-inflammatory nutrients for healing.
Carbohydrates	Refined grains like white rice, white bread, and pasta.	Both refined and gradually reintroduced whole grains, like brown rice and oats.
Fruits & Vegetables	Canned or cooked fruits and vegetables without skins or seeds; limited intake.	A wide variety of fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables for antioxidants.
Protein	Tender, easily digestible options like eggs and fish.	A wider range of high-quality protein sources, including lean meats, poultry, and plant-based options.
Fats	Limited intake, especially fried or fatty foods.	Healthy fats from olive oil and fish.
Hydration	Clear liquids, broth, and pulp-free juices.	A focus on water, supplemented by nutritious drinks.

Conclusion: A Personalized, Phased Approach is Best

A proper diet is essential for supporting the body's recovery from peritonitis and associated procedures like surgery or dialysis. The dietary needs evolve, starting with bland, easily digestible foods and gradually transitioning to a nutrient-dense diet rich in protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan, especially for those with co-existing conditions like kidney disease, where fluid, potassium, and phosphorus intake also need careful management. Following a guided, phased approach ensures optimal recovery and reduces the risk of complications. For more information and resources on managing kidney-related dietary needs, visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

Frequently Asked Questions

Initially, your doctor or dietitian will likely recommend a clear liquid diet, including water, clear broth, and plain gelatin, to allow your digestive system to rest. Food will be reintroduced slowly based on your tolerance.

Peritonitis can lead to protein loss, particularly for patients on peritoneal dialysis. A high-quality protein diet helps replenish lost protein, aids in tissue repair, and supports the immune system's ability to fight infection.

During the initial recovery phase, a low-fiber, low-residue diet may be recommended to ease the load on your sensitive digestive system. Higher-fiber foods should be reintroduced gradually as your condition improves.

It is best to avoid high-sodium, fatty, spicy, and heavily processed foods. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided, as they can cause irritation and inflammation.

Yes, probiotics found in yogurt and kefir can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut, especially after a course of antibiotics.

Peritonitis can affect fluid balance, especially for those on dialysis. Fluid intake needs to be carefully monitored under a doctor's guidance to avoid issues like fluid overload or dehydration.

The transition should be gradual, starting with soft, bland foods like mashed potatoes and plain rice before moving on to tender cooked vegetables and lean proteins. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.