Very Low Fiber Foods for Breakfast
Fiber is the indigestible, non-absorbable carbohydrate found in plant foods, including grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts and seeds. A low-fiber diet will limit the amount of these foods consumed. Doctors prescribe a low-fiber diet for different reasons. It may be used to reduce stool bulk before a procedure such as a colonoscopy or to relieve gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating and/or cramping in people with GI disorders. Although breakfast is typically a good time to meet your daily fiber requirement, it is possible to follow a low-fiber diet.
Grains and Starches
Grains contain three components: the bran, germ and endosperm. The bran portion of the grain is what contains most of the fiber. Refined grains have a lower fiber content because the bran is removed. Low-fiber breakfast grains include rice and corn cereals, white toast, grits, pancakes and waffles made with white flour and potatoes, such as home fries and hash browns. Whole grains are higher in fiber because the bran is still intact. Avoid whole-grain breads, whole-grain and bran cereals, oatmeal and granola.
Fruits without the skin and seeds will have a lower fiber content. Lower fiber fruits include melons, bananas and pineapples, as well as canned fruits without the skins. One hundred percent fruit juice without pulp and jams/jellies without seeds are also very low in fiber. Raw and dried fruits with the skin and seeds are higher in fiber. Avoid fresh berries, especially blackberries and raspberries, pears, apples, raisins, apricots, dates and figs.
Protein foods have little to no fiber content and are a great addition to a low-fiber breakfast. Eggs, fish, such as salmon or herring, tender meats, tofu and creamy nut butters are all very low fiber breakfast options.
Dairy foods are also low in fiber. Milk, yogurt and soft cheeses are acceptable options for very low fiber breakfast. When choosing yogurt, make sure to check the food labels as some varieties add fruit or inulin, which will increase the fiber content.