Gastroenterology Recovery and Prevention

Your digestive lining may be raw or healing. Treating it gently prevents bleeding and pain.

The “Low Residue” Diet (Post-Polypectomy / Diverticulitis)

If we removed a large polyp or treated an infection, we want to reduce the volume and frequency of stools to let the bowel rest.

• Eat: White bread, white rice, pasta, eggs, tender chicken, fish, cooked vegetables (carrots, potatoes without skin), yogurt, bananas.
• Avoid: Whole grains, nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, popcorn, spicy foods, and fried foods.
• Duration: Usually 3–7 days, depending on the size of the resection.

The “Soft Diet” (Post-Esophageal Dilation / Stenting)

If we stretched your esophagus or placed a stent for cancer.

• Texture: Food should be the consistency of mashed potatoes or custard.
• Chew Thoroughly: You must chew every bite 20 times.
• Sip Liquids: Drink water with your meal to help wash food down.
• Sit Upright: Stay upright for 2 hours after eating to prevent reflux or obstruction.

The “Fat-Free” Diet (Post-Gallbladder / ERCP)

Without a gallbladder to store bile, your body cannot digest large amounts of fat at once. Eating a greasy burger can cause immediate diarrhea (“dumping syndrome”).

• Strategy: Eat small, frequent low-fat meals. Introduce healthy fats (avocado, olive oil) slowly over weeks.