Discharge Instructions: Eating a High-Fiber Diet

Your doctor has prescribed a high-fiber diet for you. Fiber is what gives strength and structure to plants. Most grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits contain fiber. Foods rich in fiber are often low in calories and fat, but they fill you up more. These foods may also reduce the risk of certain health problems.

There are two types of fiber:

Insoluble fiber. This is found in whole grains, cereals, and certain fruits and vegetables (such as apple skins, corn, and beans). Insoluble fiber is made up mainly of plant cell walls. It may prevent constipation and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Soluble fiber. This type of fiber is found in oats, beans, nuts, and certain fruits and vegetables (such as strawberries and peas). Soluble fiber turns to gel in the digestive system, slowing the movement of the digestive tract. It helps control blood sugar levels and can reduce cholesterol, which may help lower the risk of heart disease. It can also help prevent constipation and certain types of cancer.

Home Care

• Know how much fiber you need a day. A healthy diet includes about 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories.

• Ask your doctor about a fiber supplement. (Always take fiber supplements with a large glass of water.)

• Keep track of how much fiber you eat.

• Eat a variety of foods high in fiber.

• Learn to read and understand food labels.

• Ask your healthcare provider how much water you should be drinking.

• Look for these high-fiber foods:

  • Whole-grain breads and cereals

    • 6 ounces a day give you about 18 grams of fiber (1 ounce is equal to 1 slice of bread, 1 cup of dry cereal, or 1/2 cup of cooked rice).

    • Include wheat and oat bran cereals, whole-wheat muffins or toast, and corn tortillas in your meals.

  • Fruits 

    • 2 cups a day give you about 8 grams of fiber.

    • Apples, oranges, strawberries, pears, and bananas are good sources.

    • Fruit juice usually does not contain as much fiber as the fruit it was made from.

  • Vegetables

    • 2½ cups a day give you about 11 grams of fiber. Add asparagus, carrots, broccoli, peas, and corn to your meals.

  • Legumes

    • 1/4 cup a day (in place of meat) gives you about 4 grams of fiber. Try navy beans, lentils, chickpeas, and soybeans.

  • Seeds 

    • A small handful of seeds gives you about 3 grams of fiber. Try sunflower seeds.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment with a nutritionist as directed by our staff.