Bland Diet
There are many reasons that a person might need to be on a bland diet. This can be a matter of choice, or it can be a medically recommended diet. Two of the most common reasons for a bland diet are ulcers and bowel problems. Following a bland diet will help restrict the common stomach irritants before they become a problem.

So, you may be asking what can I eat on a bland diet? You may be happy to know that the choices are probably wider than you think. Some of the foods on a bland diet are as follows:

• In the starch department you may eat white rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, crackers (with no spices), white bread and many dry cereals.
• In the fruit department you may choose from applesauce, canned fruits that contain no seeds or skins, apple, pear and grape juices and bananas. You cannot eat any fruits with seeds.
• In the veggie department you can have many cooked vegetables, although the stems and seeds must be removed. You can choose from carrots, green beans, squash, zucchini, onions and celery. Raw veggies are a no no, as are peppers, anything pickled and all tomato products. Veggies such as cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage are not recommended for people that have bowel problems because they cause gas.
• Most dairy products are ok with the exception of chocolate milk, creams like half and half or whipped cream, and spicy cheeses.
• As far as proteins go, creamy peanut butter is ok, as are eggs. You can also eat meats that are tender. However, you must chew them well or they will not digest properly.
• Fats are ok. You can eat things like butter, margarine and oils, but within moderation.
• In the beverage department, most low acid juices are fine. Teas, water and caffeine-free drinks are acceptable. No coffee, alcohol or sodas should be consumed.
• Avoid any soups made from tomato based ingredients; this would include most chilis not only because of the tomato, but because of the spices as well.

Bland diets do not have to be as bad as they sound. There are many foods on a bland diet that you can eat, and for the ones you can’t, there are substitutes. If you would like specific recipes, or would like to create a bland diet menu plan, there are books available that are bland-specific to help you out.