If you are suffering from stomach sensitivity or recovering from digestive surgery, you can feel eating is complicated. You start wondering what foods will comfort your stomach to eat instead of your normal diet — and that’s exactly where a gastrointestinal soft diet comes in.
This diet is gentle and focuses on foods easy to chew and digest, so your system can rest and heal without missing out on essential nutrients. It’s simple, just replace mashed potatoes with fries, soft fish instead of steak, and oatmeal instead of heavy cereal — simple swaps that make every bite soothing.
Doctors and dietitians often recommend a GI soft diet after abdominal surgery, during gastritis or reflux flare-ups, or whenever swallowing and digestion need extra care. It isn’t a forever plan, but it can make recovery calmer and eating enjoyable again.
In this guide, you’ll find a complete food list, the meals to skip, and a seven-day sample plan you can actually follow at home.
What Is a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet?
A soft diet gastrointestinal is just what you would expect — an eating plan constructed from foods that are easy on your stomach and easy on your body to digest. It’s the type of plan doctors will frequently advise when your body’s digestion requires a break, either following surgery, when you have a flare-up of reflux or gastritis, or when recovering from illness in the stomach.
Rather than strict principles, this diet is about comfort and recuperation. It is really straightforward: consume easy-to-swallow, easy-to-chew, easy-to-digest food in order for your intestine to recuperate without further tension. It entails that meals are generally mild, smooth, and soft, and that ingredients don’t inflame the lining of the stomach or inflame the belly.
You will discover that the soft dieter will feed on such food as scrambled eggs, soft vegetables, oatmeal, soft fruits, and well-cooked vegetables. Rough, spicy, seed, and skin-containing foods — such as raw vegetables, popcorn, or whole nut — are set on the side bench.
It is primarily aimed at keeping you well-fueled and letting your belly relax. You’re not depriving any food group forever — you’re just letting your stomach heal on its own schedule.
💬 From Nada Ahmed El Gazaar, Certified Nutritionist:
“I often remind my clients that a soft diet isn’t about restriction — it’s about recovery. When you treat your body gently, it has the space and energy to heal.”
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Who Should Follow a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet?
A gastrointestinal soft diet is usually recommended for people whose digestive systems need a little extra care. You might be asked to follow it for a short time after a medical procedure, or during a period when eating feels uncomfortable or painful.
Doctors and dietitians often suggest this type of diet for people who are:
- Recovering from digestive surgery — especially operations on the stomach, intestines, or esophagus. After these procedures, the body needs foods that don’t irritate or stretch delicate tissues.
- Managing chronic digestive conditions, such as gastritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or GERD (acid reflux). Soft, low-fiber foods can help reduce pain, bloating, and inflammation during flare-ups.
- Experiencing difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which can happen after certain illnesses, injuries, or treatments like radiation therapy. Soft foods make swallowing safer and more comfortable.
- Dealing with dental or mouth problems, including new dental work, mouth sores, or jaw pain, where chewing harder foods becomes difficult.
- Supporting recovery during illness or fatigue, especially for older adults or those with low appetite. Gentle meals help maintain strength without upsetting the stomach.
Doctors and dietitians commonly recommend such a diet in individuals who are:
Recovering from stomach, intestinal, or esophageal surgery. In these conditions, the body requires non-irritating, non-distending, and easily digestible food that will cause the least possible irritation to tender tissues.
Treatment of chronic gastrointestinal diseases, like gastritis, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, or acid reflux (GERD). Low-fiber, soft foods may alleviate pain, bloating, and inflammation during flare symptoms.
Having trouble swallowing (dysphagia), which may occur following some diseases, wounds, or treatments such as radiation therapy. Soft foods will be easier and softer to swallow.
Handling dental or mouth issues, such as new dental restorations, mouth lesions, or jaw pain, as one finds that he/she cannot chew hard food.
Assisting with recovery when one is ill or weak, particularly the elderly or weak-eating. Soft meals assist in retaining strength without disturbing the belly.
How long one is on a soft diet will be determined individually. For one, it is the matter of days transition; in other cases, as part of broader under medical supervision healing process.
Benefits of Following a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet
When your digestive system is healing, food becomes more than just fuel — it becomes part of your recovery. A gastrointestinal soft diet helps create the gentlest possible environment for your stomach and intestines, giving your body a chance to heal while still getting the nutrients it needs.
1. It Gives Your Digestive System a Break
After surgery, illness, or a flare-up of a digestive condition, your body needs rest — not just sleep, but digestive rest. Soft, mild foods move through the system smoothly and don’t strain the stomach muscles or irritate sensitive tissues. This means less discomfort, bloating, and cramping while your gut repairs itself quietly in the background.
2. It Helps You Heal Faster
By avoiding hard, fibrous, or spicy foods, you lower the risk of tearing delicate tissues or triggering inflammation. Many patients find that following a soft diet after a medical procedure helps them transition back to normal eating sooner — because their digestive tract stays calm instead of constantly reacting.
3. It Keeps You Nourished and Energized
Even though the foods are soft, this diet still provides everything your body needs to stay strong — proteins for tissue repair, carbohydrates for energy, and vitamins and minerals to support recovery. With a little planning, a soft diet can be both nutritionally balanced and comforting.
4. It Makes Eating Comfortable Again
One of the hardest parts of digestive recovery is the fear of eating — worrying that every bite might hurt. Soft, easy-to-digest meals take that fear away. You can eat with confidence, knowing your food will support healing instead of causing pain or discomfort.
5. It Eases the Emotional Side of Recovery
Eating is emotional. When you’re already dealing with pain or illness, not being able to enjoy food can make recovery feel even harder. A soft diet helps restore that sense of comfort — you can still enjoy flavors, warmth, and mealtime rituals while protecting your body.
25 Recommended Foods to Include in a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet
When your stomach is sensitive, food choice matters more than ever. The goal isn’t to restrict yourself but to choose meals that help you feel nourished, full, and comfortable. These foods are gentle on digestion yet rich in nutrients that support recovery and energy.
1. Protein Sources — Healing from the Inside Out
Protein helps rebuild tissues and maintain strength during recovery, but some protein foods can be tough on the stomach. The following options are light, lean, and easy to digest:
- Scrambled or soft-boiled eggs: Simple, high-protein, and gentle on digestion.
- Shredded chicken or turkey breast: Tender, skinless, and moist when cooked properly.
- Steamed or baked white fish (like tilapia or cod): Mild in flavor and soft in texture.
- Soft tofu: A great plant-based source of protein that blends easily into soups or purees.
- Smooth nut butters (peanut or almond): Provide healthy fats and protein, but avoid chunky textures.
“If chewing feels difficult, blend cooked chicken or fish with a little broth — it keeps the protein soft without losing nutrition.”
2. Fruits & Vegetables — Gentle Fiber and Natural Vitamins
Fruits and vegetables give you essential vitamins, but raw produce can be harsh on a healing gut. Stick to soft, peeled, or cooked versions:
- Ripe bananas: Naturally smooth, potassium-rich, and soothing for the stomach.
- Applesauce (unsweetened): Provides fiber without the tough skin.
- Steamed carrots or zucchini: Soft, mild, and rich in beta-carotene.
- Canned peaches or pears (in juice, not syrup): Easy to chew and digest.
- Mashed avocado: Soft and full of healthy fats that support gut healing.
💡 Nutrition note: Cooking vegetables until they’re fork-tender makes them easier to digest while keeping nutrients intact.
3. Grains & Starches — Comforting Energy for Recovery
These foods give your body slow-release energy while being gentle on digestion. Choose simple, refined grains without added fiber or seeds:
- Oatmeal or cream of wheat: Smooth, warm, and soothing for the stomach.
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes (without skin): Filling and nutrient-rich.
- White rice or polenta: Easy to chew and digest — ideal base for soft proteins.
- Plain pasta or noodles: Avoid heavy sauces; drizzle with olive oil or mild broth instead.
- Soft bread or rolls (white, not whole grain): For when you’re ready for mild chewing.
“A small drizzle of olive oil or a spoon of broth can turn plain rice or pasta into a complete, balanced meal on a soft diet.”
4. Dairy & Alternatives — Gentle Calcium and Protein
If you tolerate dairy, these options can be soothing and nourishing. If not, try lactose-free or plant-based alternatives.
- Low-fat yogurt (plain or lactose-free): Adds probiotics to support gut health.
- Cottage cheese or ricotta: Smooth texture and high in protein.
- Milk or fortified soy milk: Easy source of calcium and vitamin D.
- Soft cheese (cream cheese, mozzarella): Gentle and mild in flavor.
- Puddings made with milk: Comforting dessert that fits easily into the diet.
💡 Tip: Choose unflavored or lightly sweetened options — too much sugar can cause bloating or gas.
5. Soft Comfort Foods — Light, Warm, and Healing
When eating feels like work, comfort foods help restore appetite and enjoyment.
- Creamy soups (like cream of chicken or potato): Hydrating and easy to swallow.
- Pureed vegetable soups: Combine nutrition with smooth texture.
- Gelatin desserts: Hydrating and refreshing when cold.
- Plain oatmeal cookies or soft pancakes: Occasional treat once your stomach improves.
- Mashed or blended fruits with yogurt: A light, nutritious dessert.
💬 “Comfort food matters — when patients start to enjoy their meals again, their recovery usually speeds up. Soft foods should still feel like real food, not just a medical plan.”recovery.
Foods to Avoid on a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to eat. Some foods are simply too rough, spicy, or fibrous for a sensitive stomach to handle while it’s healing. By skipping these temporarily, you give your digestive system the rest it needs to recover fully.
1. Hard, Crunchy, or Dry Foods
Foods that are rough in texture can scrape or irritate delicate tissues in the stomach and intestines.
Avoid:
- Chips, toast, popcorn, and crackers
- Granola, seeds, and nuts
- Dry cereals or hard biscuits
💬 Try instead: soft oatmeal, creamy wheat cereal, or mashed potatoes for the same comforting feel.
2. Raw Vegetables and Salads
While vegetables are important, raw or high-fiber types are harder to digest and can cause bloating or cramping.
Avoid:
- Raw carrots, celery, broccoli, cabbage, and leafy salads
- Vegetables with tough skins or seeds
💬 Try instead: steamed carrots, cooked zucchini, mashed pumpkin, or pureed spinach. These keep the nutrients without the rough texture.
3. Tough Meats and Fried Foods
Fatty, chewy, or fried foods slow down digestion and may trigger nausea or reflux.
Avoid:
- Steak, sausage, bacon, and fried chicken
- Processed meats like salami or pepperoni
- Greasy burgers or fried snacks
💬 Try instead: soft, baked fish, shredded chicken, or tofu. They’re light but still satisfying.
4. Spicy, Acidic, or Strongly Seasoned Foods
Spices, vinegar, and citrus-based foods can irritate the stomach lining.
Avoid:
- Hot sauces, pepper, chili powder
- Tomato sauces, citrus juices, vinegar-based dressings
- Garlic-heavy or heavily seasoned meals
💬 Try instead: mild herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme, and gentle seasonings such as olive oil or unsalted broth for flavor without irritation.
5. Whole Grains, Seeds, and High-Fiber Foods
Although fiber is essential, it can be too harsh during recovery.
Avoid:
- Whole-grain bread, brown rice, quinoa, barley
- Seeds like chia, flax, or sunflower
- Foods with husks or bran
💬 Try instead: refined grains temporarily — white rice, pasta, or soft bread — until your digestion strengthens.
6. Caffeinated and Carbonated Drinks
These can cause bloating, gas, and acid reflux, especially when your stomach is inflamed.
Avoid:
- Coffee, energy drinks, and strong tea
- Soda, sparkling water, and alcohol
💬 Try instead: caffeine-free herbal tea, warm water with honey, or lactose-free milk.
7. Sticky or Chunky Desserts
Even sweets can cause discomfort if they’re dense or hard to chew.
Avoid:
- Dried fruits, caramel, chewy candy, or pastries with seeds or nuts
💬 Try instead: pudding, gelatin desserts, or blended fruit smoothies for a soothing treat.
Sample 7-Day Meal Plan for a Gastrointestinal Soft Diet
Eating on a soft diet doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive. The key is to choose meals that are smooth in texture, low in fat, and easy to digest — while still keeping flavors gentle and enjoyable.
This 7-day plan is designed for gradual healing and can be adjusted to suit personal preferences, allergies, or dietary restrictions. Always follow your doctor or dietitian’s specific recommendations.
Day 1 – Soothing Start
- Breakfast: Oatmeal made with milk and mashed ripe banana
- Snack: Applesauce (unsweetened)
- Lunch: Cream of chicken soup with soft white bread
- Snack: Low-fat yogurt or lactose-free yogurt
- Dinner: Baked white fish (like cod) with mashed potatoes and steamed carrots
- Dessert: Plain vanilla pudding
Day 2 – Light and Balanced
- Breakfast: Scrambled eggs and soft canned peaches
- Snack: Cottage cheese
- Lunch: Shredded chicken breast with white rice and pureed squash
- Snack: Ripe banana
- Dinner: Polenta with soft-cooked spinach and baked tilapia
- Dessert: Gelatin dessert
Day 3 – Gentle Variety
- Breakfast: Cream of wheat with mashed avocado
- Snack: Applesauce
- Lunch: Soft tofu with pureed pumpkin and plain pasta
- Snack: Yogurt with blended fruit
- Dinner: Shredded turkey, mashed sweet potato, and steamed zucchini
- Dessert: Rice pudding
Day 4 – Nourishing Comfort
- Breakfast: Boiled egg with oatmeal
- Snack: Canned pears (in juice)
- Lunch: Cream of potato soup with a soft bread roll
- Snack: Cottage cheese
- Dinner: Baked chicken (shredded) with white rice and pureed peas
- Dessert: Gelatin or plain yogurt
Day 5 – Mild and Restorative
- Breakfast: Soft pancakes topped with mashed banana
- Snack: Applesauce
- Lunch: Ricotta cheese with cooked pasta and steamed carrots
- Snack: Lactose-free milk or soy milk
- Dinner: Poached fish with mashed cauliflower and spinach puree
- Dessert: Pudding or soft fruit smoothie
Day 6 – Energy with Ease
- Breakfast: Cream of wheat with soft canned peaches
- Snack: Low-fat yogurt
- Lunch: Mashed potatoes with baked chicken and steamed green beans
- Snack: Mashed avocado with a soft roll
- Dinner: Tofu stir-fry (soft tofu with tender vegetables and white rice)
- Dessert: Applesauce
Day 7 – Gentle Finish
- Dessert: Rice pudding or gelatin
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with mashed ripe banana
- Snack: Yogurt or milk
- Lunch: Cream of mushroom soup with soft bread
- Snack: Cottage cheese
- Dinner: Baked tilapia with polenta and steamed carrots
How to Transition From a Soft Diet Back to Normal Eating
A gastrointestinal soft diet isn’t meant to last forever — it’s a bridge between recovery and your normal way of eating. Once your body begins to heal, your goal is to reintroduce regular foods slowly and safely, without shocking your digestive system.
1. Wait Until Your Body Feels Ready
You’ll know you’re improving when eating soft foods no longer causes discomfort, bloating, or nausea. Your energy levels will begin to return, and your appetite will feel more natural again. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor or dietitian before changing your diet.
💬 Nada’s note: “Don’t rush your recovery. The stomach heals quietly, and the best sign you’re ready for more variety is when your meals no longer leave you feeling heavy or uneasy.”
2. Reintroduce One Food Group at a Time
Start with easy-to-digest additions — for example, soft cooked vegetables before raw ones, tender meats before grilled or fried ones, and peeled fruits before whole ones.
Give each new food a day or two before adding another, so you can notice how your stomach responds.
✅ Example progression:
- Week 1: Add soft cooked vegetables and peeled fruits.
- Week 2: Reintroduce mild proteins (chicken, fish).
- Week 3: Try gentle whole grains and slightly firmer foods.
3. Keep Portions Small and Eat Slowly
After a period of eating soft foods, your digestive system may be more sensitive to volume. Start with half portions and chew thoroughly. Eating slowly gives your body time to send signals of fullness and reduces the risk of bloating or pain.
💡 Pro tip: Set your fork down between bites — this simple habit helps prevent overeating while your stomach readjusts.
4. Watch for Warning Signs
If new foods cause discomfort — like cramping, nausea, or reflux — go back to softer meals for a few days. Healing isn’t always a straight line; it’s perfectly normal to take a step back and try again later.
Seek medical advice if you notice:
- Ongoing pain or bloating after meals
- Blood in stool or persistent nausea
- Unexplained weight loss
These could signal your digestive system needs more time or further evaluation.
5. Focus on Balance, Not Perfection
The goal isn’t to rush back into your old eating habits but to rebuild a pattern that feels good. Once your stomach can tolerate most foods, focus on long-term nourishment: lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
How to Stay Nourished on a Soft Diet
A gastrointestinal soft diet may sound limited at first, but with a few smart choices, you can still meet all your nutritional needs. The goal is to give your body time to heal without running low on the key nutrients that keep you strong, energized, and recovering faster.
1. Prioritize Protein Every Day
Protein is the building block of healing. It helps repair tissues, maintain muscle mass, and support your immune system. Try to include a soft source of protein with each meal — like scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, soft tofu, or tender chicken.
💡 Pro tip: If your appetite is low, blend cooked chicken or Greek yogurt into soups or mashed vegetables for a protein boost that’s easy to digest.
2. Include Gentle Carbohydrates for Energy
Carbs are your body’s main fuel — especially when you’re recovering. Stick to simple, low-fiber options like white rice, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, or plain pasta. These give you steady energy without upsetting your stomach.
💬 Nada’s note: “Many people try to cut carbs too early after surgery, but your body needs them for strength and stamina. Choose light, soft versions — your stomach will thank you.”
3. Don’t Forget Healthy Fats
Even during recovery, your body needs healthy fats for hormone balance, brain function, and nutrient absorption. Choose gentle, easy-to-digest sources like:
- Mashed avocado
- Smooth nut butters
- Small amounts of olive oil or soft cheese
Avoid fried or greasy foods — they’re harder to digest and can trigger discomfort.
4. Get Vitamins and Minerals From Soft Sources
Soft foods can still deliver powerful nutrients when you pick them carefully:
- Iron: Soft meats, eggs, or fortified cereals.
- Calcium: Yogurt, milk, or soy milk.
- Vitamin A: Mashed carrots, pumpkin, or sweet potato.
- Vitamin C: Soft fruits like peaches, pears, or bananas.
If your diet remains limited for several weeks, your healthcare provider might suggest a mild multivitamin to fill any temporary gaps.
5. Stay Hydrated (Gently!)
Hydration supports every healing process, but carbonated or acidic drinks can slow recovery. Aim for 6–8 cups of gentle fluids each day — such as water, herbal teas, diluted juices, or warm broth.
💬 Nada’s advice: “Small sips often are better than large gulps. Your stomach stays calmer when fluids come slowly and steadily.”
6. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Large meals can overwhelm a healing digestive system. Try four to six smaller meals a day instead of three big ones. This keeps your energy stable and digestion smooth throughout the day.
7. Listen to Your Body’s Signals
If you start feeling light-headed, unusually tired, or your recovery stalls, your body may need more calories or protein. These are signs to gently increase portions or add an extra snack.
“The goal isn’t just to eat soft foods — it’s to stay nourished while you heal. When nutrition and comfort work together, recovery feels smoother and faster.”
Soft Diet Food Texture Guide and Printable Grocery List
When to Stop the Soft Diet and Warning Signs to Watch For
A soft diet is meant to help your digestive system heal — not to be a permanent lifestyle. Knowing when and how to move on from it safely is an important part of recovery. Everyone’s timeline looks different, so listen closely to your body and stay in touch with your doctor or dietitian during the process.
1. How Long to Stay on a Soft Diet
Most people follow a gastrointestinal soft diet for one to three weeks, depending on the reason it was prescribed.
- After surgery: Your doctor may recommend staying on soft foods until the surgical area heals and you can digest comfortably.
- After a digestive flare-up (like gastritis or colitis): You can usually begin reintroducing regular foods once pain, bloating, and nausea subside.
- After dental or swallowing issues: Your provider might suggest a longer period, often until chewing or swallowing is comfortable again.
💬 Nada’s note: “The goal is to eat normally again — just not before your body is ready. Healing happens quietly, and progress doesn’t always look the same for everyone.”
2. Signs You’re Ready to Return to Regular Eating
It’s usually safe to move beyond a soft diet when you notice that:
- You can eat soft foods without pain or bloating.
- Your appetite feels stronger and your energy is improving.
- You can tolerate slightly firmer foods, like baked fish or peeled fruits, without discomfort.
- Your bowel habits are regular and pain-free.
If these signs appear consistently, it’s a good time to begin reintroducing more textures and fiber gradually.
3. Warning Signs You May Need More Time
Sometimes, the digestive system needs a little longer to recover. Return to a soft diet or check with your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Persistent stomach pain or cramping after eating
- Bloating, nausea, or acid reflux returning
- Diarrhea or constipation that doesn’t improve
- Unintended weight loss or poor appetite
- Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of food “sticking”
💬 “It’s completely okay to take a step back if your stomach isn’t ready yet. Recovery isn’t a straight line — listening to your body is the best nutrition advice you can ever follow.”
4. Transition Plan Recap
Here’s a simple summary to remember:
Recovery Phase | Diet Focus | Key Foods | Signs You’re Ready to Move On |
---|---|---|---|
Initial Recovery | Pureed or blended foods | Applesauce, mashed potatoes, soups | Less nausea, improved comfort |
Mid Recovery | Soft and tender solids | Scrambled eggs, white rice, yogurt | Normal appetite returns |
Final Transition | Tender but textured foods | Shredded chicken, soft fruits, pasta | Digesting easily and pain-free |
5. Long-Term Goal: Eating Without Fear
Once your digestion is stable, your long-term goal is balance — eating a variety of whole, unprocessed foods without pain or anxiety. It’s completely possible to maintain a healthy, satisfying diet after recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I stay on a gastrointestinal soft diet?
It depends on the reason for starting the diet and how your body responds. Most people follow a soft diet for one to three weeks, but your doctor or dietitian will guide you. Once you can eat soft foods without pain, bloating, or nausea, it’s usually safe to begin adding regular foods again.
Can I get enough nutrition on a soft diet?
Yes — when planned properly. A soft diet can include all major nutrients: protein from eggs or tofu, carbs from oatmeal or rice, and vitamins from cooked fruits and vegetables. You can even blend extra protein into soups or purees to stay strong during recovery.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options for a gastrointestinal soft diet food list?
Yes, there are plenty of plant-based options! Soft-cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, tofu, smooth nut butters, ripe bananas, applesauce, and oatmeal all fit well into a vegetarian or vegan gastrointestinal soft diet food list.
How can I add flavor to foods on a gastrointestinal soft diet?
Use gentle seasonings like a pinch of salt, mild herbs, or a small amount of unsalted broth. Avoid spicy, acidic, or heavily seasoned foods, as these can irritate the digestive tract.
Is dairy allowed on a gastrointestinal soft diet?
Many people can tolerate low-fat dairy products like yogurt, cottage cheese, or milk. However, if you are lactose intolerant or dairy bothers your stomach, opt for lactose-free or plant-based alternatives.
Can I eat sweets or desserts on a gastrointestinal soft diet?
Soft, non-acidic desserts like plain pudding, gelatin, and applesauce are usually fine. Avoid desserts that are crunchy, sticky, or contain nuts and seeds, as they can be hard to digest.
Conclusion
Choosing the right foods from a gastrointestinal soft diet food list can make a huge difference in your comfort and recovery if you have a sensitive stomach or are healing from digestive issues. By sticking to easy-to-digest options and avoiding foods that irritate your gut, you can help your body heal while still obtaining the necessary nutrients. Remember, everyone’s needs are a little different, so always check with your doctor or dietitian before making major changes to your diet. If you follow a well-planned gastrointestinal soft diet food list, you’ll feel better, recover faster, and keep your digestive system happy.
References
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). Eating Guide for Soft Foods. MedlinePlus. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000212.htm. Accessed October 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. Soft Diet: Foods to Eat and Avoid.
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/soft-diet. Accessed October 2025.
- Mayo Clinic. Dietary Guidelines After Gastrointestinal Surgery. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/gastrointestinal-surgery/art-20047049.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Texture-Modified Diets. https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/preventing-illness/texture-modified-diets
- American Cancer Society. Soft Foods and Nutrition After Treatment. https://www.cancer.org/treatment/survivorship-during-and-after-treatment/staying-active/nutrition/eating-problems/soft-foods.html
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. Soft Diet Guidelines. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/soft-diet