soft diet, a diet that is soft in texture, low in residue, easily digested, and well tolerated. It provides the essential nutrients in the form of liquids and semisolid foods, such as milk; fruit juices; eggs; cheese; custards; tapioca and puddings; strained soups and vegetables; rice; ground beef and lamb; fowl; fish; mashed, boiled, or baked potatoes; wheat, corn, or rice cereals; and breads. Omitted are raw fruits and vegetables, coarse breads and cereals, rich desserts, strong spices, all fried foods, veal, pork, nuts, and raisins. It is commonly recommended for people who have GI disturbances or acute infections and those unable to tolerate a normal diet.
