What is a very plain diet? A Guide to Bland Eating

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, an estimated 60 to 70 million Americans are affected by digestive diseases, which a plain diet can help manage. This guide explains what is a very plain diet, outlining its purpose and who might benefit from this temporary dietary approach.

Quick Summary

A very plain or bland diet involves eating easily digestible, low-fiber, and mildly seasoned foods to soothe the gastrointestinal tract during illness or recovery from digestive upset.

Key Points

• Temporary Use: A plain or bland diet is a short-term solution for managing digestive distress, not a permanent eating plan.

• Digestive Rest: The primary goal is to give the gastrointestinal tract a break from hard-to-digest, irritating foods.

• Focus on Bland Foods: The diet emphasizes easily digestible, low-fiber foods like white rice, bananas, soft cooked vegetables, and lean, skinless protein.

• Avoid Irritants: To prevent irritation, avoid spicy foods, high-fat meals, raw vegetables, whole grains, and caffeine.

• Medical Consultation: Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting or extending a plain diet to ensure it's appropriate and to guide your recovery.

Understanding the Purpose of a Very Plain Diet

A plain diet, often referred to as a bland diet, is a short-term eating plan designed to rest the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Its primary purpose is to reduce irritation and inflammation in the stomach and intestines by removing foods that are hard to digest, highly seasoned, fatty, or acidic. The diet's mild nature makes it appropriate for people with various digestive issues, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, acid reflux (GERD), and certain bowel diseases like Crohn's and colitis. It is also frequently recommended for recovery after GI surgery or during a flare-up of symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. By eliminating potential irritants, the diet helps minimize symptoms and gives the digestive system the opportunity to heal. Unlike a permanent lifestyle diet, the plain diet is a temporary measure, and its duration should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider.

What to Eat on a Very Plain Diet

When following a plain diet, the focus is on foods that are simple and gentle. These foods are generally low in fiber and fat, and free from strong flavors and spices. The following categories provide examples of safe choices:

Refined Grains

• White rice: Plain, cooked white rice is a staple. It's low in fiber and easy to digest.
• White bread and crackers: Plain, refined flour bread and crackers like saltines are acceptable options.
• Plain pasta: White flour pasta, cooked and served without heavy sauces or cheese, is a good choice.
• Refined, hot cereals: Cream of Wheat and oatmeal are often well-tolerated.

Lean Proteins

• Poultry: Skinless chicken or turkey, baked or grilled without added fat or heavy seasoning.
• Fish: Lean white fish, steamed or baked without seasoning.
• Eggs: Boiled, poached, or scrambled without butter or fat.
• Tofu: Plain tofu, prepared simply.

Cooked Fruits and Vegetables

• Bananas: One of the most famous bland diet foods due to its soothing properties.
• Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce provides easily digestible nutrients.
• Cooked vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and squash, cooked until very soft.
• Canned fruits: Peaches or fruit cocktail, packed in juice, can be tolerated.

Dairy and Fluids

• Low-fat dairy: Low-fat milk and plain yogurt (if tolerated).
• Broth: Clear chicken or vegetable broth is hydrating and easy on the stomach.
• Weak tea: Non-caffeinated and weak tea can be soothing.
• Water: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during digestive upset.

Foods to Avoid on a Plain Diet

Just as important as what you can eat is knowing what to avoid. These foods can exacerbate symptoms and should be removed from the diet during the healing period.

• Spicy and acidic foods: Hot peppers, chili, citrus fruits, and tomato products.
• High-fat and fried foods: Fried meats, high-fat dairy, and anything cooked with excessive oil.
• High-fiber and gas-producing foods: Raw vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage.
• Caffeine and alcohol: These can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase irritation.
• Sugary foods: High-sugar items like candy, pastries, and soda.

Plain Diet vs. BRAT Diet: What's the Difference?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is a much more restrictive version of a bland diet, often recommended for acute diarrhea. A bland diet, however, is broader and includes a wider variety of foods to prevent nutritional deficiencies during a longer recovery period.

Feature	Plain Diet (Bland Diet)	BRAT Diet
Variety	Broader range of foods including lean proteins, cooked vegetables, and low-fat dairy.	Extremely limited to just bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.
Nutritional Completeness	Offers more nutrients due to increased food variety, but still temporary.	Nutritionally inadequate for anything more than a very short-term illness.
Duration	Can be followed for a few days to several weeks as guided by a doctor.	Typically used for only a few days to manage severe diarrhea.
Use Case	Gastritis, ulcers, GERD, post-surgery, or general GI irritation.	Acute, short-term diarrhea, mainly to help bind stool.

How Long Should You Follow a Plain Diet?

The plain diet is not intended for long-term use. A healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration, which could be a few days or up to 4-6 weeks after surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. Prolonged adherence can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health issues, such as constipation due to low fiber. It is crucial to transition back to a balanced, regular diet gradually once symptoms improve. A doctor or dietitian can help create a plan for reintroducing foods and ensuring all nutritional needs are met.

Potential Risks and Reintroducing Foods

One of the main risks of following a bland diet for too long is the potential for nutritional deficiencies, as many food groups high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber are restricted. A lack of fiber, in particular, can lead to constipation, which is a common complaint. Additionally, the lack of flavor and variety can make the diet unappetizing and difficult to stick to for some individuals.

When symptoms subside, reintroducing foods should be a slow and deliberate process. Start with small portions of low-risk foods, such as a piece of peeled fruit or a small amount of a high-fiber vegetable. Keep a food diary to monitor for any returning symptoms. If a certain food causes distress, remove it and try reintroducing it again later. This approach helps identify specific trigger foods while safely expanding your diet. Incorporating healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates over time is essential for a complete recovery and long-term health. For additional guidance on digestive issues, the NCBI Bookshelf offers valuable information on the Bland Diet.

Conclusion

A very plain diet serves as a therapeutic tool for a variety of gastrointestinal ailments, offering the digestive system a much-needed period of rest and healing. By focusing on easily digestible, mildly flavored, and low-fat foods while avoiding common irritants like spices, fats, and high-fiber items, individuals can effectively manage acute symptoms. However, its temporary nature and potential for nutrient deficiencies mean it should always be implemented under medical supervision. With a carefully managed transition back to a balanced diet, this approach can be a powerful step toward restoring digestive comfort and long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good plain meal ideas?

Good plain meal ideas include boiled chicken breast with plain white rice, steamed carrots and potatoes, unsweetened applesauce, and eggs prepared without added fat.

How long should a person typically stay on this diet?

A plain diet is typically followed for a short duration, ranging from a few days to several weeks, as advised by a doctor. It should not be used long-term.

Is the BRAT diet the same as a plain diet?

No, the BRAT diet is more restrictive than a general plain or bland diet. The plain diet includes a wider range of foods, while BRAT is limited to Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast.

Can a plain diet cause constipation?

Yes, due to its low fiber content, a plain diet can cause constipation. It is important to stay well-hydrated to help with this issue.

Is a plain diet nutritionally complete long-term?

No, a plain diet is not nutritionally complete for long-term use. It lacks sufficient fiber and other nutrients required for sustained health, which is why it's a temporary plan.

Can a plain diet help with acid reflux?

Yes, by avoiding foods that can trigger acid production and relax the lower esophageal sphincter, a plain diet can help manage symptoms of acid reflux.

What kind of drinks are allowed on a plain diet?

Allowed drinks include water, clear broth, and weak, non-caffeinated tea. It's best to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and acidic juices.