Diarrhea is a common condition that can be uncomfortable and dehydrating. Choosing the right foods to eat can help soothe your digestive system and speed up your recovery. This article will guide you through the best foods to consume when you have diarrhea and which foods to avoid to alleviate your symptoms and promote healing.
When you’re experiencing diarrhea, it’s crucial to focus on foods that are gentle on your stomach and easy to digest. Bland foods are often recommended as they are less likely to irritate your digestive system further. These foods help to solidify your stools and reduce the frequency of bowel movements. The BRAT diet is a classic recommendation, consisting of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are low in fiber and help to bind the stool.
Other bland options that are easy to stomach include boiled potatoes, plain crackers like saltines, pretzels, and baked chicken without the skin or fat. Oatmeal is another excellent choice, providing soluble fiber that can help absorb excess fluid in the intestines. These foods are not only gentle but also provide essential nutrients to help your body recover.
Probiotics, often referred to as “good” bacteria, can also play a significant role in managing diarrhea. They work by restoring the balance of bacteria in your gut and releasing chemicals that combat harmful bacteria that can cause diarrhea. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet may help shorten the duration of your diarrhea. Excellent sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. However, if your diarrhea is related to lactose intolerance, be cautious with dairy-based probiotics like yogurt and kefir.
Staying hydrated is paramount when you have diarrhea, as you lose fluids and electrolytes. In addition to water, consider consuming liquids that contain sugar and salt to replenish lost electrolytes. Pedialyte and full-salt soups are good choices. If you notice your urine is dark or you’re not urinating frequently, it’s a sign that you need to increase your fluid intake.
While knowing what to eat is important, it’s equally vital to understand which foods can worsen diarrhea. Fatty foods, such as fried and greasy items or those covered in gravy, can aggravate your digestive system and exacerbate diarrhea. Dairy products like milk, butter, ice cream, and cheese should also be avoided, even if you are not typically lactose intolerant, as your sensitivity to dairy may increase temporarily during diarrhea.
Alcohol and sodas are also best to avoid. Alcohol can dehydrate you, while sugary sodas, especially those with high-fructose corn syrup, can draw water into your intestines and worsen diarrhea. Artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, often found in sugar-free candies and drinks, can have a laxative effect and should be avoided as well. Furthermore, vegetables known to cause gas, such as cabbage, beans, broccoli, and cauliflower, should be limited until you feel better. Lastly, always ensure food safety by avoiding any foods that may be spoiled or improperly stored.
If your diarrhea persists for more than a few days, or if you experience severe symptoms like bleeding, intense gas, and bloating, it’s essential to consult a doctor. They can determine the underlying cause of your diarrhea and recommend appropriate treatment. Over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help slow bowel movements for a short period, but they should not be used long-term without medical advice.
