Question

Which of the following food is limited in a Low-residue diet?

• A. Rice, bread, noodles
• B. Raw fruits and vegetables
• C. Cookies, cakes
• D. Boiled, poached eggs

Hint:

Low-residue \(\approx\) Very Low Fiber.
Whenever you see a question on low-residue diets, look for foods rich in dietary fiber (like raw vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds) to identify what needs to be limited or avoided.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A low-residue diet is a clinical diet designed to reduce the volume and frequency of stools. It restricts foods that leave indigestible material (residue) in the bowel, primarily dietary fiber.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the foods based on their fiber/residue content:
1. Raw fruits and vegetables: These foods contain high levels of insoluble dietary fiber, cellulose, and skins. This fiber cannot be digested by human enzymes and passes into the large intestine as bulk (high residue). Therefore, they must be strictly avoided or limited in a low-residue diet.
2. Rice, bread, noodles (refined): Refined carbohydrates have their fibrous husks removed, leaving very little residue after digestion. They are allowed on a low-residue diet.
3. Cookies and cakes (made from refined flour): These are low in fiber and are allowed in moderate amounts.
4. Eggs: Eggs are completely digested and absorbed without leaving any fibrous residue in the digestive tract. They are excellent protein sources on this diet.
Thus, raw fruits and vegetables must be limited.

Step 3: Final Answer
The correct option is (B).