What foods should you consume when experiencing diarrhea. Which dietary items are best avoided during a bout of diarrhea. How can your diet help alleviate diarrheal symptoms and promote recovery.

Understanding Diarrhea: Causes and Dietary Impact

Diarrhea, a common digestive issue, can stem from various factors including stomach flu, food intolerances, or certain ingredients that disagree with your system. While occasional diarrhea is generally not a cause for concern, knowing how to manage it through your diet can significantly aid in recovery and symptom relief.

How does diet influence diarrheal symptoms? The foods you consume can either exacerbate or alleviate your condition. Some foods may irritate your digestive system, leading to increased fluid secretion and faster intestinal transit, while others can help firm up stools and provide essential nutrients without overtaxing your digestive tract.

Optimal Foods to Consume During Diarrhea

When dealing with diarrhea, it’s crucial to focus on bland, simple foods that are easy to digest. Dr. Peter Higgins, director of the inflammatory bowel disease program at the University of Michigan, recommends consuming “thicker, bland foods” during the first 24 hours of a diarrheal episode.

• Oatmeal
• Bananas
• Plain rice
• Applesauce

Why are these foods beneficial? These options are part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast), which has long been recommended for digestive issues. They’re easily digestible, provide some nutrients, and help firm up stools.

The Role of Probiotics in Diarrhea Management

Can probiotics help with diarrhea? Some studies suggest that probiotic-rich yogurt may be beneficial during diarrheal episodes. Probiotics can help rebalance the gut microbiome, potentially shortening the duration of diarrhea. However, it’s important to choose plain, unsweetened yogurt to avoid added sugars that could exacerbate symptoms.

Foods to Avoid When Experiencing Diarrhea

Just as certain foods can help alleviate diarrhea, others can worsen symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these foods is crucial for managing your condition effectively.

Fatty and Greasy Foods

Why should you avoid fatty foods during diarrhea? Foods that are fried, greasy, or covered in gravy can be difficult to digest and may increase intestinal contractions, potentially worsening diarrhea. These foods can also slow down stomach emptying, leading to discomfort and nausea.

Dairy Products

Should you avoid all dairy when you have diarrhea? Generally, it’s advisable to steer clear of milk, butter, ice cream, and cheese during a bout of diarrhea. Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, you may become temporarily sensitive to dairy products when your digestive system is compromised.

Alcoholic Beverages and Sodas

How do alcohol and sodas affect diarrhea? Alcohol acts as a diuretic, potentially exacerbating dehydration associated with diarrhea. Sodas, especially those containing high-fructose corn syrup, can overwhelm your digestive system, leading to increased gas, bloating, and diarrhea.

The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Diarrhea

Artificial sweeteners, including sorbitol, can have a laxative effect on some individuals. During diarrhea, it’s best to avoid sugarless candy, gum, diet soft drinks, and sugar substitutes. These substances can cause your intestines to produce more water and electrolytes, potentially worsening diarrhea.

Are all sweeteners problematic during diarrhea? While natural sugars in moderation are generally less problematic, artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols (like sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol) are more likely to cause digestive issues, especially during a bout of diarrhea.

Managing Gas-Producing Foods During Diarrhea

While a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is typically recommended for good health, certain produce items can increase intestinal gas, potentially exacerbating diarrheal symptoms. Foods to approach with caution include:

• Cabbage
• Beans
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower

How can you incorporate vegetables into your diet during diarrhea? Opt for well-cooked, easily digestible vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and spinach. These provide essential nutrients without causing excessive gas or irritation to your digestive system.

The Importance of Food Safety in Preventing Diarrhea

Proper food handling and storage play a crucial role in preventing diarrhea caused by foodborne illnesses. Avoid foods that may have been mishandled or left unrefrigerated for extended periods. Raw meat and fish can be particularly problematic if not properly stored or cooked.

How can you ensure food safety at home? Follow these guidelines:

1. Refrigerate perishable foods promptly
2. Cook meats thoroughly
3. Wash fruits and vegetables before consumption
4. Practice proper hand hygiene when handling food
5. When in doubt about a food’s safety, discard it

Hydration Strategies During Diarrheal Episodes

One of the most significant risks associated with diarrhea is dehydration. Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial for recovery and preventing complications.

What are the best fluids to consume during diarrhea? Dr. Higgins recommends liquids containing both sugar and salt, such as Pedialyte or full-salt soups. These help replace lost electrolytes and provide easily absorbable energy.

Signs of Adequate Hydration

How can you tell if you’re staying properly hydrated? Monitor your urine output and color. Clear or light-colored urine indicates good hydration, while dark urine or decreased urination suggests you need to increase your fluid intake.

Over-the-Counter Remedies and When to Seek Medical Attention

For short-term relief of diarrhea symptoms, over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can be effective. However, these should only be used for a day or two and avoided if you suspect an infection or notice blood in your stool.

When should you consult a doctor for diarrhea? If symptoms persist for more than a few days, or if you experience any of the following, seek medical attention:

• Bloody stools
• Severe abdominal pain
• Signs of dehydration (extreme thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination)
• Fever above 102°F (39°C)
• Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days

A healthcare professional can determine if your diarrhea is caused by a more serious condition and recommend appropriate treatment.

The Role of Gut Health in Diarrhea Prevention

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can play a significant role in preventing and managing diarrheal episodes. A balanced gut flora helps in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of digestive issues like diarrhea.

How can you promote gut health? Consider these strategies:

• Consume a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Include fermented foods in your diet (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut)
• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
• Limit processed foods and artificial additives

By focusing on gut health, you may not only reduce your risk of diarrhea but also improve your overall digestive wellbeing.

Long-term Dietary Considerations for Digestive Health

While managing acute diarrhea often involves temporary dietary adjustments, maintaining long-term digestive health requires a more comprehensive approach. A balanced diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats can promote regular bowel movements and support a healthy gut microbiome.

What dietary habits can help prevent future bouts of diarrhea? Consider incorporating these practices:

1. Gradually increase fiber intake to promote regular bowel movements
2. Stay well-hydrated by consuming water and other non-caffeinated beverages throughout the day
3. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can irritate the digestive tract
4. Practice mindful eating, chewing food thoroughly and eating at a relaxed pace
5. Identify and avoid any personal food triggers that may cause digestive discomfort

By adopting these habits, you can work towards a more resilient digestive system that’s better equipped to handle occasional dietary challenges or mild infections without resulting in prolonged diarrheal episodes.

The Connection Between Stress and Digestive Health

Stress can have a significant impact on your digestive system, potentially triggering or exacerbating diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between your central nervous system and your enteric nervous system, plays a crucial role in this connection.

How can you manage stress to support digestive health? Consider these strategies:

• Practice regular relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Engage in regular physical activity, which can help reduce stress and promote healthy digestion
• Ensure adequate sleep, as sleep deprivation can increase stress levels and affect gut health
• Consider talking to a mental health professional if stress is significantly impacting your daily life

By addressing stress alongside dietary considerations, you can create a more comprehensive approach to managing and preventing diarrhea.

Understanding Food Intolerances and Their Role in Diarrhea

Food intolerances can be a common cause of recurring diarrhea. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances typically occur when your body has difficulty digesting certain foods. Common food intolerances include lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorption, and gluten sensitivity.

How can you identify potential food intolerances? Consider these steps:

1. Keep a food diary, noting what you eat and any symptoms that occur
2. Try an elimination diet under the guidance of a healthcare professional
3. Consider food intolerance testing, though these tests are not always conclusive
4. Pay attention to patterns in your digestive symptoms and their relation to specific foods

If you suspect a food intolerance, consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can help you develop a balanced diet that avoids trigger foods while ensuring you still receive all necessary nutrients.

The Role of Fiber in Managing Diarrhea

Fiber plays a complex role in digestive health and can have varying effects on diarrhea depending on the type of fiber and the individual’s digestive state. While fiber is generally beneficial for overall gut health, its impact during acute diarrhea can be mixed.

How does fiber affect diarrhea? There are two main types of fiber:

• Soluble fiber: This type of fiber dissolves in water and can help firm up loose stools. Foods high in soluble fiber include oats, apples, and carrots.
• Insoluble fiber: This type doesn’t dissolve in water and adds bulk to stool. While beneficial for constipation, it may exacerbate diarrhea in some cases. Foods high in insoluble fiber include whole grains and many vegetables.

During acute diarrhea, it’s generally recommended to focus on easily digestible, low-fiber foods. As symptoms improve, you can gradually reintroduce fiber-rich foods, starting with those high in soluble fiber. This approach helps normalize bowel function while minimizing potential irritation to the digestive tract.

The Importance of Individualized Approaches to Diarrhea Management

While general guidelines for managing diarrhea through diet are helpful, it’s important to recognize that individual responses can vary. What works well for one person may not be as effective for another. Factors such as underlying health conditions, medications, and personal dietary habits can all influence how your body responds to different foods during a bout of diarrhea.

How can you develop a personalized approach to managing diarrhea? Consider these steps:

1. Pay attention to your body’s responses to different foods during and after diarrheal episodes
2. Consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice
3. Consider keeping a symptom journal to identify patterns and triggers
4. Be willing to adjust your approach based on your experiences and responses

By taking an individualized approach and working closely with healthcare professionals, you can develop a more effective strategy for managing diarrhea that’s tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

The Role of Supplements in Diarrhea Management

While dietary changes are the primary focus in managing diarrhea, certain supplements may offer additional support. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially during illness.

What supplements might be beneficial for diarrhea? Consider these options:

• Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria can help restore balance to the gut microbiome and may shorten the duration of diarrhea.
• Zinc: Some studies suggest zinc supplementation may reduce the severity and duration of diarrhea, particularly in children.
• Glutamine: This amino acid may help repair the intestinal lining and support gut health.
• Electrolyte supplements: These can help replace lost minerals and prevent dehydration.

Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and proper hydration. Always follow recommended dosages and discontinue use if you experience any adverse effects.

By combining dietary strategies, stress management techniques, and appropriate supplementation under medical guidance, you can develop a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing diarrhea. This holistic strategy not only addresses immediate symptoms but also promotes long-term digestive health and overall wellbeing.

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

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Aug 30, 2021

Written By

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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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Nutrition for indigestion and diarrhea

Author, editor and medical expert – Zavgorodnyaya Ekaterina Alexandrovna.

Editor and medical expert – Harutyunyan Mariam Harutyunovna.

Number of views: 245 277

Date last updated: 06/25/2023

Contents:

Take care of your digestive system
Good eating habits
Foods and drinks that cause diarrhea
How to avoid food triggers
Keep a food diary
Eliminate foods that are not suitable for you
Do you have a food intolerance?
Is fiber a problem for you?

To normalize digestion, you need to watch not only what you eat, but also how you do it.

Back to content

Take care of your digestive system

Just because you have a sensitive gut doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy life. Just follow some rules in order to help your digestive system.

Back to Contents

Good Eating Habits

• Eat more slowly. Your stomach needs 20 minutes to signal to your brain that it is full. Therefore, if you eat slowly, you can eat less food and, accordingly, reduce the load on the digestive system.

• Chew your food. When you chew food thoroughly, you not only slow down the intake of food, but also help the digestive system, providing it with small pieces to digest.

• Do not swallow food quickly. When you swallow food quickly, you also swallow air, which can lead to bloating and poor digestion.

• Eat smaller and lighter meals. Large volumes of heavy food take longer to digest, making it harder for the digestive system to work.

• Do not eat late at night. Your digestive system is less efficient at the end of the day, so try to eat at least 3 hours before bed.

Back to Contents

Foods and Drinks that Cause Diarrhea

Everyone is unique, so our body reacts differently and at different times. Foods that can cause diarrhea in one person may not cause it in another. You may also find that a product that did not cause a reaction yesterday is causing a problem today.

Check out some foods that can cause diarrhea.

• Alcohol. Your favorite wine or other alcoholic drink can be a stomach irritant. But drinks affect everyone differently, so try not to drink those that do not suit you.

• Spicy food. Recent studies show that fatty and spicy foods, such as Indian and Chinese dishes, may exacerbate abdominal pain in patients with irritable bowel syndrome.

• Fried and fatty foods. Such food may increase the contraction of the intestinal muscles during digestion and cause diarrhea.

• Fibrous food. Many products are rich in insoluble fiber. For example, bran and wheat are difficult to digest and can lead to diarrhea. Look on the back of a cereal package to see what types of fiber it contains and may not be right for you.

• Too many fruits and vegetables in the diet. Eating large amounts of plums, kiwi, beans, broccoli and cabbage can cause diarrhea in some people.

• Dairy products. Milk, cheese, sour cream and other dairy products are known to cause diarrhea. Look for non-dairy alternatives such as almond or soy milk.

• Coffee and tea. Caffeine causes digestive problems in many people who often suffer from diarrhea. Try to limit your caffeine intake and drink herbal and green teas instead.

• Sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners (eg sorbitol and fructose) found in diet drinks and sweets may cause diarrhea. This is partly because they are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. Pay attention to the information on the packaging and try to choose natural analogues.

Remember that symptoms may not be caused by the food you just ate, but by the food you ate the day before. Also, not the food itself, but the speed, time and amount of food eaten may be to blame for their appearance.

Back to Table of Contents

How to Avoid Food Provocateurs

If your diarrhea is caused by certain foods, you can identify them by keeping a diary of the foods you eat each day and when your episodes of diarrhea occur.

Back to Contents

Keep a Food Diary

• Get a notebook and make entries daily.

• Record absolutely everything you eat, including seasonings, spices (if possible), and drinks.

• Specify the degree of stress during the day. You will be surprised how powerful the impact of stress on the digestive system can be.

• Study the composition of food. Pasta, pizza, and sandwiches are different foods, but they can all contain wheat.

• Start with a general approach and then look at the ingredients. This way, by learning first about the products that are not suitable for you, you will be able to determine which individual ingredients you should avoid.

• Keep a diary for a long time. At first, you may not notice the connection, but over time everything will become clear, and you can discuss the problem with your doctor.

Back to Contents

Eliminate Unhealthy Foods

You may have found that eating pasta with tomato sauce causes diarrhea, but you don’t know which ingredient is causing the problem. To identify it, try eating pasta without tomato sauce, and vice versa. This applies to all types of food.

Back to Contents

Do you have a food intolerance?

The most common causes of food intolerance are:

• gluten, a protein found in many types of grains, including wheat, barley, and oatmeal;

• lactose is a sugar found in milk and other dairy products.

If you think you have a food allergy or intolerance, talk to your doctor.

Back to Contents

Is fiber a problem for you?

A high-fiber diet may cause or worsen diarrhea in some people. But keep in mind that there are two types of fibers.

Soluble dietary fiber. It is found in most citrus fruits and vegetables such as potatoes and legumes. This fiber can be helpful for diarrhea as it absorbs water and makes the stool firmer.

Insoluble fibre. It can be found in bran, whole grains, rice, and the skins of some fruits and vegetables. It can help with constipation, but worsen the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and recurrent diarrhea. This does not mean that you should avoid insoluble fiber when you have diarrhea. Just be mindful of what you eat and what effect these foods have on you.

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

Foods to eat and not to eat with diarrhea

A person’s diet is crucial 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.