A temporary low-fibre diet
Content date: 14 November 2026
A low-fibre diet is used for selected situations and an agreed duration; it is not needed by every person with IBD.
Your next step
Confirm why you need this diet, how long to follow it and when to reintroduce foods.
Get urgent help: Severe pain with distension, repeated vomiting or inability to pass gas needs urgent assessment.
Why might it be prescribed?
Your team may recommend it for selected strictures or symptoms. Obstruction risk may also require texture changes. Follow your individual plan; do not use this guide to treat suspected obstruction at home.
Temporary choices
Options may include white rice or bread, eggs, fish or tender chicken, and peeled well-cooked vegetables if your plan allows. Temporarily limit bran, whole grains, skins, seeds, nuts and pulses.
It is not a clear-fluid diet
Low-fibre food may still be solid. For colonoscopy, follow your appointment-specific preparation; this food list does not replace a required clear-fluid phase.
Returning to a varied diet
Agree a review date and a plan to restore fibre. Get dietetic help if the diet is prolonged or intake or weight falls. Do not reintroduce foods while obstructive symptoms persist.
Practical choices
| Situation | Practical choice |
|---|---|
| Whole grains and bran | White rice or bread temporarily. |
| Skins and tough vegetables | Peeled and well cooked, as your plan allows. |
| Protein | Eggs, fish or tender chicken. |
When to get help
Severe pain with distension, repeated vomiting or inability to pass gas needs urgent assessment.
No agreed end/review date, weight loss or difficulty achieving a varied intake.
Related guides
Nutrition with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis