A low residue diet (LRD) reduces the amount of solid waste or residue in stools. Following a LRD may be recommended before certain medical procedures like colonoscopies or surgeries.
LRDs are not meant to be sustained for long durations. In the short term, however, they’re effective in reducing stool frequency and urgency, as well as minimizing the risk of bowel incontinence. One pivotal development in LRDs was the introduction of fiber as an essential nutrient.
