What foods can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms. Which foods should be avoided when experiencing diarrhea. How can diet choices impact digestive health during bouts of diarrhea. What are the best strategies for managing diarrhea through nutrition.

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Dietary Considerations

Diarrhea is a common digestive issue that can be caused by various factors, including stomach flu, food sensitivities, or consuming ingredients that don’t agree with your system. While occasional diarrhea is generally not a cause for concern, knowing how to manage it through proper nutrition can significantly improve your comfort and recovery time.

Can diet choices really impact the duration and severity of diarrhea? Absolutely. The foods you consume during a bout of diarrhea can either exacerbate symptoms or help alleviate them. By making informed decisions about what to eat and what to avoid, you can support your body’s natural healing process and reduce discomfort.

Beneficial Foods to Consume During Diarrhea

When dealing with diarrhea, it’s crucial to focus on simple, bland foods that are easy to digest. These foods can help firm up stools and provide necessary nutrients without irritating your digestive system. Here are some recommended options:

• Oatmeal
• Bananas
• Plain rice
• Applesauce
• Toast
• Boiled potatoes
• Lean, grilled chicken or fish

Why are these foods particularly beneficial? They are part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), which has long been recommended for digestive issues. These foods are low in fiber, which makes them easier to digest, and they help add bulk to stools, potentially reducing the frequency of diarrhea.

The Role of Probiotics in Diarrhea Management

Probiotics, particularly those found in yogurt, may be an exception to the general rule of avoiding dairy during diarrhea. How can probiotics help? They work to rebalance the gut microbiome, which can be disrupted during bouts of diarrhea. Some studies suggest that probiotic-rich foods may help shorten the duration of diarrhea episodes.

Foods to Avoid When Experiencing Diarrhea

Just as certain foods can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms, others can exacerbate them. Avoiding these foods can prevent further irritation to your digestive system and potentially speed up recovery:

1. Fatty and greasy foods
2. Dairy products (except probiotic-rich yogurt)
3. Alcohol and carbonated beverages
4. Artificial sweeteners
5. Gas-producing vegetables (e.g., cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower)
6. Spicy foods
7. Caffeine
8. Raw or undercooked meats

Why are these foods problematic during diarrhea? Fatty foods can be difficult to digest and may worsen diarrhea. Dairy products can be temporarily hard to process, even for those who aren’t typically lactose intolerant. Alcohol and caffeine can act as diuretics, potentially leading to further dehydration. Gas-producing vegetables may cause additional discomfort and bloating.

The Importance of Hydration in Diarrhea Management

Dehydration is one of the most serious complications of diarrhea. How can you prevent dehydration during a bout of diarrhea? Focus on consuming adequate fluids, particularly those that contain both sugar and salt. Options include:

• Oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte
• Clear broths or soups with salt
• Diluted fruit juices
• Coconut water
• Herbal teas (non-caffeinated)

Why is the combination of sugar and salt important in rehydration? Salt helps your body retain water, while sugar aids in the absorption of salt and water in the intestines. This combination can help restore electrolyte balance more effectively than water alone.

The BRAT Diet: A Tried and True Approach

The BRAT diet has been a go-to recommendation for managing diarrhea for many years. What makes this diet particularly effective for digestive issues?

Bananas: Rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that helps absorb excess fluid in the intestines and can help firm up stools. They’re also a good source of potassium, which is often depleted during diarrhea.

Rice: Plain, white rice is easily digestible and can help firm up stools. It’s low in fiber and doesn’t put additional stress on the digestive system.

Applesauce: Contains pectin and is easier to digest than raw apples. It provides some nutrients and can help soothe the stomach.

Toast: Plain, white toast is easily digestible and can help absorb excess acid in the stomach.

While the BRAT diet can be helpful in the short term, it’s important to note that it shouldn’t be followed for extended periods as it doesn’t provide all the nutrients your body needs for optimal health.

Beyond Diet: Additional Strategies for Managing Diarrhea

While diet plays a crucial role in managing diarrhea, there are other strategies you can employ to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:

• Rest: Allow your body time to heal by getting adequate rest.
• Gradual reintroduction of foods: As symptoms improve, slowly reintroduce a wider variety of foods.
• Small, frequent meals: Eating smaller portions more frequently can be easier on your digestive system.
• Avoid strenuous exercise: Physical exertion can worsen dehydration and divert blood flow from your digestive system.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently to prevent the spread of infection.

Are over-the-counter medications helpful for managing diarrhea? In some cases, yes. Loperamide (Imodium) can help slow bowel movements, but it should only be used for a day or two and avoided if you have bloody stools or suspect an infection.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Diarrhea

While most cases of diarrhea resolve on their own with proper care and dietary management, there are instances where medical attention is necessary. When should you consult a healthcare professional about your diarrhea?

• Symptoms persist for more than a few days
• You notice blood in your stool
• You experience severe abdominal pain
• You have a fever above 102°F (39°C)
• You show signs of severe dehydration (e.g., dark urine, dizziness, rapid heartbeat)
• You have recently traveled to a region with poor sanitation
• You have a weakened immune system

Why is it important to seek medical attention in these cases? These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection, inflammatory bowel disease, or other gastrointestinal disorders that require professional medical intervention.

The Gut Microbiome and Diarrhea: A Delicate Balance

The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiome. This complex ecosystem plays a crucial role in digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. How does diarrhea affect the gut microbiome?

Diarrhea can disrupt the delicate balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to a state of dysbiosis – an imbalance in the microbial community. This disruption can further exacerbate digestive issues and may prolong recovery time. To support your gut microbiome during and after a bout of diarrhea, consider the following strategies:

• Consume probiotic-rich foods or supplements
• Eat prebiotic foods to nourish beneficial bacteria
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, which can further disrupt the microbiome
• Manage stress, as it can negatively impact gut health
• Get adequate sleep to support overall health and immune function

By nurturing your gut microbiome, you can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea episodes and improve your overall digestive health.

The Role of Fiber in Digestive Health

While it’s generally recommended to avoid high-fiber foods during acute diarrhea, fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining digestive health in the long term. How does fiber contribute to gut health?

Soluble fiber, found in foods like oats, barley, and fruits, can help absorb excess water in the intestines and slow down digestion. This can be particularly beneficial as you transition back to a normal diet after a bout of diarrhea. Insoluble fiber, found in whole grains and vegetables, adds bulk to stools and promotes regular bowel movements.

As you recover from diarrhea, gradually reintroduce fiber-rich foods into your diet to support long-term digestive health and prevent future episodes of diarrhea or constipation.

Long-Term Dietary Strategies for Digestive Health

While knowing how to manage diet during acute diarrhea is important, maintaining good digestive health through proper nutrition can help prevent future episodes and support overall well-being. What dietary strategies can promote long-term digestive health?

• Eat a diverse range of fruits and vegetables
• Include both soluble and insoluble fiber in your diet
• Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas
• Limit processed foods and added sugars
• Incorporate fermented foods for natural probiotics
• Practice mindful eating and chew food thoroughly
• Identify and avoid personal food triggers

By adopting these dietary habits, you can support your digestive system, maintain a healthy gut microbiome, and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of digestive issues like diarrhea.

The Mind-Gut Connection

Emerging research has highlighted the intricate connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. How does this connection impact digestive health and conditions like diarrhea?

Stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on digestive function, potentially triggering or exacerbating symptoms like diarrhea. Conversely, digestive issues can also affect mental well-being, creating a feedback loop. To support both gut and mental health, consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga into your daily routine.

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of digestive health, you can create a more holistic approach to managing and preventing diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues.

Tailoring Your Diet to Individual Needs

While general guidelines for managing diarrhea through diet can be helpful, it’s important to recognize that individual responses to foods can vary. How can you determine the best dietary approach for your specific needs?

Keep a food diary: Track what you eat and any symptoms you experience. This can help identify potential trigger foods or beneficial foods that work well for you.

Consider food sensitivities: Some people may have specific food intolerances or sensitivities that contribute to digestive issues. Common culprits include dairy, gluten, and certain FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols).

Consult a healthcare professional: If you frequently experience digestive issues or have concerns about your diet, consider working with a registered dietitian or gastroenterologist. They can provide personalized advice and help rule out any underlying conditions.

By tailoring your diet to your individual needs and paying attention to how different foods affect your digestion, you can develop a personalized approach to managing and preventing diarrhea.

The Role of Supplements in Digestive Health

While a balanced diet should be the primary focus for maintaining digestive health, certain supplements may offer additional support, particularly during or after episodes of diarrhea. What supplements might be beneficial for digestive health?

• Probiotics: Can help restore beneficial gut bacteria
• Prebiotics: Feed beneficial gut bacteria and support their growth
• Zinc: May help reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea, particularly in children
• Glutamine: An amino acid that supports intestinal health and function
• Vitamin D: Important for immune function and may play a role in gut health

It’s important to note that while supplements can be helpful, they should not replace a balanced diet or medical treatment when necessary. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have ongoing digestive issues or other health concerns.

By combining a thoughtful approach to diet, stress management, and targeted supplementation when appropriate, you can develop a comprehensive strategy for maintaining digestive health and effectively managing episodes of diarrhea when they occur.

What to Eat and What to Avoid When You Have Diarrhea

Occasional diarrhea is nothing to worry about. The causes of diarrhea can range from a stomach flu to a specific meal or ingredient you ate that didn’t sit well. Because certain foods can worsen symptoms, it’s good to know the foods you should eat when you have diarrhea — and what you should avoid. (1)

You want to eat plain, simple foods, especially in the first 24 hours, says Peter Higgins, MD, PhD, the director of the inflammatory bowel disease program at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

“It is best to eat thicker, bland foods, including oatmeal, bananas, plain rice, and applesauce,” he says.

Avoid These Foods When You Have Diarrhea

As important as it is to know what to eat when you have diarrhea, you should also know which foods to avoid. Certain foods can travel through your intestines very quickly and aggravate your digestion, or worsen diarrhea in other ways.

Avoid the following for diarrhea relief:

• Fatty Foods These include foods that are fried, greasy, or covered in gravy, which can make diarrhea worse.
• Milk, Butter, Ice Cream, and Cheese Even if the diarrhea isn’t caused by lactose intolerance — a difficulty processing lactose, a sugar found in dairy products — stay away from these foods when you have diarrhea. You may be temporarily sensitive to dairy products, even if you usually have no problem with them. Probiotic-rich yogurt may be the one exception to this rule, as some studies have shown probiotics help rebalance intestinal flora and could shorten the duration of a bout of diarrhea.
• Alcohol and Sodas When you have diarrhea, you want to steer clear of foods and beverages that cause you to lose fluids. Alcohol can act as a diuretic, meaning it’s dehydrating, and should be avoided, Dr. Higgins says. Sodas with high-fructose corn syrup can also pose a problem if you have diarrhea. Large quantities of fructose can overwhelm your digestive system and lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhea. (4)
• Sorbitol and Other Artificial Sweeteners Some people find that artificial sweeteners have a laxative effect on their digestive system. If you have diarrhea, it’s best to pass on sugarless candy and gum, diet soft drinks, and sugar substitutes. Consuming sugars, including artificial ones, causes your intestines to produce more water and electrolytes, which can then loosen bowel movements and lead to diarrhea. (5)
• Foods That Cause Excess Gas It’s important to eat generous amounts of fruits and vegetables every day. But when diarrhea strikes, you want to avoid choices that are likely to increase intestinal gas, such as cabbage, beans, broccoli, and cauliflower, until you’re feeling better.
• Foods That May Be Spoiled Stay away from foods that may have been mishandled, including foods that have been out of the refrigerator for too long or improperly stored. Raw meat or fish can be problematic, too. Follow the old maxim, “When in doubt, throw it out,” and you may save yourself some stomach upset.

Other Strategies for Tackling Your Diarrhea

One of the more serious complications of diarrhea is dehydration. When you have diarrhea for any length of time, take steps to avoid becoming dehydrated by consuming enough liquids, Higgins says.

More in Digestive Health

3 Ways to Treat Diarrhea

“Look for liquids with sugar and salt — Pedialyte or full-salt soups work well,” he says. “If your urine is not clear, or you are not making much urine, you are not drinking enough.”

In terms of diarrhea treatment, Higgins says, if you don’t have an infection and are not seeing blood, you can take over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium) to slow your bowel movements. But this kind of medication should only be taken for a day or two.

If diet and simple remedies aren’t working, and if symptoms persist for more than a few days and include bleeding, gas, and bloating, you should see a doctor. Your doctor can determine whether the diarrhea is caused by a more serious condition, and can recommend treatment.

RELATED: When Diarrhea Is More Serious Than You Think

Additional reporting by María Villaseñor.

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What to Eat and What to Avoid When You Have Diarrhea

What to Eat and What to Avoid When You Have Diarrhea

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Medically reviewed by Adrienne Seitz, MS, RD, LDN, Nutrition — By Ana Gotter — Updated on May 11, 2023

Eating bland foods can help diarrhea go away faster and prevent stomach upset and irritation. You can follow the BRAT diet, which stands for “bananas, rice, applesauce, toast.” This diet also helps firm up stool.

Whether your diarrhea is caused by allergies, food poisoning, or a chronic condition like irritable bowel syndrome, diet and diarrhea are intricately linked.

Even if you have long-term conditions that affect the digestive system, your food can affect your comfort levels.

When you’re experiencing an episode of diarrhea, certain foods you eat can help your digestive system get back on track. Other foods might prolong or worsen your symptoms.

When you have diarrhea, the foods you eat and avoid can be critical to a quicker recovery. This is where BRAT foods come in.

The BRAT diet includes:

• bananas
• white rice
• applesauce
• toast made from white bread

These foods are bland and low in fiber so they won’t aggravate the digestive system. They’re also binding, so they help firm up stool. While following a BRAT diet, you can combine these ingredients, such as putting applesauce or bananas on toast.

You can eat additional foods as part of a bland diet. These can include:

• cooked cereal, like oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, or Farina
• soda crackers
• apple juice that’s low in added sugar
• baked or boiled potatoes

Drinking plenty of liquids can help you stay hydrated and replace the lost fluids. Options to try include:

• water or sucking on ice chips
• clear broths, like vegetable, chicken, or beef broth with any grease removed
• electrolyte-enhanced water or coconut water with vitamins or electrolytes (try to avoid ones high in sugar)
• solutions like Pedialyte
• weak, decaffeinated tea

After you’ve started to recover, you can try to add in foods like scrambled eggs and cooked vegetables.

When you’re experiencing diarrhea or recovering from it, certain foods can trigger the digestive system and worsen or prolong diarrhea.

Foods to avoid while experiencing diarrhea include:

• milk and dairy products (including milk-based protein drinks)
• fried, fatty, greasy foods
• spicy foods
• processed foods, especially those with additives
• pork and veal
• sardines
• raw vegetables
• onions
• corn
• all citrus fruits
• other fruits, like pineapples, cherries, seeded berries, figs, currants, and grapes
• alcohol
• coffee, soda, and other caffeinated or carbonated drinks
• artificial sweeteners, including sorbitol

Many cases of diarrhea are short-lived and respond well to home treatments such as:

• modified diet
• increased fluid intake
• over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as anti-diarrheal medications like Pepto-Bismol, which can help stop or slow down diarrhea
• rest

But you may also develop diarrhea due to a bacterial infection. In these cases, a doctor may recommend antibiotics.

Taking probiotics after taking antibiotics can help prevent adverse reactions to antibiotics by introducing healthy bacteria back into the digestive system. This can also help prevent future cases of diarrhea.

If your diarrhea is severe, you may need to be admitted to the hospital to receive intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.

While many cases of diarrhea can be treated at home, if your bout is prolonged or you experience concerning symptoms, you may have an underlying medical condition. Diarrhea that lasts more than a few days without improvement or occurs with dehydration may require medical care.

If you have concerning symptoms, you may need to go to the emergency room for treatment. These symptoms can include:

• black or bloody stools
• severe abdominal pain
• a fever of 102°F (39°C) or higher

If a child has diarrhea, they may need urgent or emergency care if they:

• don’t improve after 24 hours
• haven’t had a wet diaper in 3 or more hours
• have a fever of 100. 4°F (38°C) in children under 3 months old or 102.2°F (39°C) or higher in children between 3 and 36 months old
• have a dry mouth or tongue
• cry without tears
• have skin that doesn’t flatten if pinched and released
• have a sunken appearance to the abdomen, cheeks, or eyes
• have black or bloody stools

The foods you eat can cause and help your body recover from diarrhea.

When you have diarrhea, get lots of rest, drink plenty of water, and start introducing BRAT foods after a few hours. After a day or 2 of bland, soft foods, you can add in foods like lean ground chicken and scrambled eggs.

Sticking to this diet can help you recover faster and feel better sooner, so you can return to eating all the foods you love as soon as possible.

Eating bland foods low in fiber can help your diarrhea go away faster. Always remember to rehydrate to replenish lost fluids.

Last medically reviewed on May 11, 2023

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Diarrhea. (2016).
  niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/diarrhea
• Nemeth V, et al. (2022). Diarrhea.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448082/
• Weir S-B, et al. (2022). Bland diet.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538142/

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

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Medically reviewed by Adrienne Seitz, MS, RD, LDN, Nutrition — By Ana Gotter — Updated on May 11, 2023

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Foods to eat and not to eat with diarrhea

A person’s diet is critical if they are experiencing diarrhea. Some foods can help relieve this symptom, while others can make it worse.

What to eat and drink

To relieve diarrhea, it is recommended to eat soft, simple foods that are easy to digest, which will help absorb excess water from the stool. Among them it is worth noting: oatmeal, rice porridge, bananas, plain white rice, bread or toast, boiled potatoes. These foods may be especially helpful on the first day of diarrhea treatment. Frequent consumption of such food in small quantities throughout the day will help improve the functions of the digestive system.

Probiotic foods such as yogurt and kefir may help in some cases, but can sometimes further irritate the digestive system.

Fluids are vital to recovery. Persons with diarrhea should drink plenty of water, during the day it is necessary to drink an additional cup of water after each bowel movement. A large intake of fluid helps prevent dehydration and remove toxins from the body. However, in addition to water, the body also loses minerals and electrolytes. To replenish them, it is recommended to use soup-broth, electrolyte water, sports drinks.

Foods and drinks to avoid

Many foods can aggravate irritation of the digestive system and increase the severity of diarrhea. These include: spicy foods, fried foods, sweets and foods with artificial sweeteners, foods high in fiber, onions and garlic, raw vegetables, foods that lead to gas formation in the intestines (cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower), citrus fruits, fatty meat, including pork and veal, dairy products. You should also avoid carbonated drinks, those containing caffeine, alcohol.

In addition to diet, over-the-counter medications can help manage diarrhea. Persons with diarrhea should also be provided with sufficient rest, as stressful situations can worsen the situation. Physical activity can lead to a higher risk of dehydration and should be limited.

Hospitalization is required if there is blood or mucus in the stool accompanied by fever. In severe cases of diarrhea, hospitalization and intravenous electrolytes may also be required. Diarrhea in children requires special attention. If your child shows any signs of dehydration, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms include: dry mouth, weight loss, crying without tears.

Many cases of diarrhea last only a few days and are well controlled by home treatments. A simple diet, increased fluid intake, and use of over-the-counter medications as needed can help relieve symptoms quickly. In cases where the body does not respond to these procedures, you should consult a doctor after 2-3 days.

According to www.medicalnewstoday.com

Weak and strong: which foods will relieve constipation and which ones will relieve diarrhea

• Health

Almost all of us know why you should not eat pickles with milk — after such an experiment, you can sit in the toilet for a long time.

May 15, 2022

Source:

iStockphoto

In almost half of the cases, diarrhea – loose stools – is due to our eating habits, the use of poorly combined with each other or laxative foods. In addition, diarrhea can be the result of eating spoiled food, a sign of poisoning, an intestinal infection, or an allergic reaction to certain food components. A separate option is lactase deficiency, which many mistakenly take for the “fresh cucumber with milk” or “herring with milk” effect.

The problem here is not the herring or the cucumber, but the whole milk. Many adults and some children do not digest lactose, the milk sugar from milk, poorly. This leads to bloating, fermentation and diarrhea. What other products can affect the stool, whether it is possible to solve digestive problems with their help, the therapist, gastroenterologist of the Moscow Clinic Valeria Trapeznikova told Doctor Peter.

If you want to relax, drink milk

Diarrhea (or more simply, diarrhea, loose stools) is an increase in stool more than 3 times a day. Loose stools and severe diarrhea can be due to many reasons, one of which is the use of foods that form a laxative effect. That is, some products, consumed in a certain amount, change the frequency of stools per day and the nature of feces. These, first of all, should include fermented milk products (kefir, fermented baked milk, curdled milk, yogurt).

It is worth noting here that dairy products containing whole cow’s milk (and the milk of any other animal – goat, camel, mare) can additionally cause symptoms of bloating in the abdomen and severe diarrhea. They are not recommended for people who are lactose intolerant. This is a condition in which the intestines lack the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar, lactose.

When there is not enough enzyme (or none at all), lactose, milk sugar, enters the colon. It is inhabited by bacteria that enjoy lactose, producing lactic acid, carbon dioxide and water. Gases accumulate, provoking bloating, lactic acid irritates the intestinal walls – bloating and thinning of the stool occur.

Read also

Fiber will help cure constipation

In addition to fermented milk products, products with fiber (coarse vegetable fibers) can help in eliminating constipation. For example, foods containing a large amount of indigestible or partially digestible fiber have a laxative effect – these are mainly vegetables, fruits, cereals. If you want to help yourself with constipation, consider the following products:

1. bell pepper

2. cucumber

3. spinach

4. garden greens

   900 36

5. broccoli

6. cauliflower

7. beets ,

8. green grapes,

9. plums,

10. prunes,

11. dried apricots,

12. linseed,

13. whole grain rye bread,

14. oat bran.

They are recommended for those who suffer from chronic constipation. However, it is important to remember that without enough water, these products will not work as effectively. The fact is that fiber absorbs water, swells. Accordingly, this water must be taken from somewhere. Therefore, to combat constipation, eat vegetables and drink water.

See also

How to stop diarrhea

There is not only a group of products with a pronounced laxative effect. There are also foods that, on the contrary, can fix the stool and complicate the act of defecation, if the stool becomes very hard.

These include:

1. Rice is the most popular product for acute stool disorders. Rice broth and porridge on the water are recommended for people who suffer from diarrhea on the background of SARS, intestinal infections, acute poisoning or allergies, loosening the stool after taking antibiotics.

2. Potatoes, jelly and other starchy products. They have an enveloping effect, soothe the intestinal wall, helping to stop diarrhea.

3. Berries: blueberries, bird cherry, chokeberry. They contain fixing components, astringent and enveloping the walls of the intestine.

4. Strong black tea – tannins have an astringent effect.

5. Black and red grapes,

6. Bananas.

Please note that this is a general product listing. Each person has their own individual reactions to a particular product, and they may differ from the generally accepted ones.

See also

Individual reactions to foods

In some people, but not in the general population, certain foods can cause an acute attack of diarrhea as a variant of food intolerance. Moreover, this is a dose-dependent effect: the more dangerous product is taken, the longer you sit in the toilet, cleansing the intestines. Among the most basic irritants are:

1. Alcohol, especially wine and beer;

2. Spicy foods and dishes;

3. Kiwi, broccoli;

4. Coffee – some only black, others only with milk;

5. Products with sweeteners – Sorbitol and fructose from 0% sugar diet drinks are especially weak.