HIGH BULK DIET

Principle: To provide a diet which is high in fiber, but is adequate in all other nutrients. If calories and fat are to be limited, incorporate guidelines for other diets. High-bulk diets are used for both diarrhea and constipation. They lower cholesterol, smooth out sugar levels, decrease the risk for diverticulosis and hemorrhoids and lower colon cancer and possibly breast cancer risk.

Food Group

Beverages: Any. Liquids are encouraged to soften stool. At least four 12-oz glasses per day.

Soups: As desired. Use vegetables freely.

Meat & Meat Substitutes: Any meat, beef, veal, lamb, pork, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, crunchy peanut butter. 2 servings per day.

Potato & Substitutes: White or sweet potatoes, raw or cooked, preferably with skins. Brown and wild rice, whole wheat pasta. Legumes such as beans, dried peas, soybeans, etc, are especially helpful. 1 or 2 servings per day.

Breads & Cereal Products: Whole grain breads and rolls, from cracked wheat, rye, bran, etc. Quick breads and other muffins containing these grains and other foods high in bulk such as nuts, dates, raisins, dried fruits, soybeans, cranberries, etc.

Cereals made from coarse grains, such as Ralston, Malto-meal, oatmeal, Petti-Johns, etc. Bran, (1-3 tablespoons) may be added to cereals, breads, muffins.

Dry cereals made from whole grains or containing dried fruits, such as All-Bran, Bran Buds, Grapenuts, 40% Bran Flakes, Raisin Bran, Shredded Wheat, etc.

Vegetables: Any raw vegetables, whole vegetables. Eat skins when possible. Eat at least 3 servings per day.

Fruits: Raw unpeeled fruits best when possible (apples, grapes, peaches, pears, cherries, etc.). Oranges, tangerines, apricots, pineapple, banana, etc. Cooked rhubarb. Eat at least 3 servings per day. Include one citrus fruit daily for Vitamin C.

Desserts: Choose those containing dates, raisins, coconut, peanuts, etc. Fiber-Med cookies are available at the supermarket/drugstore. Other similar low-calorie, high-bulk desserts are now available.

Additional sources: Metamucil, Citrucel, Konsyl, etc. These are not drugs – they are not absorbed but stay in the bowel. Use sugar-free types, since they lessen bowel gas. Start slowly with 1 tbsp. daily. Increase up to 3-5 tbsp. per day in divided doses or until desired effect achieved. Add freely to juices, gravies, soups, sauces, etc.