What food to eat with diarrhea is a common concern, and at FOODS.EDU.VN, we understand the discomfort and urgency. Our guide provides expert-backed dietary recommendations to ease your symptoms and promote faster recovery, including the best foods and drinks for diarrhea. Discover valuable insights and practical advice to help you make informed choices during this challenging time, brought to you by FOODS.EDU.VN.
1. What Foods Should You Eat When You Have Diarrhea?
When dealing with diarrhea, a temporary diet of bland, easily digestible foods is best. These foods help bind stools and reduce irritation in the digestive tract. The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) is a well-known option, but there are many other beneficial foods to consider.
1.1. Bread or Toast: Why Are They Recommended?
Refined wheat in white bread can help bind stools because it is low in fiber. Toasting the bread makes it even easier to digest. Whole grains, on the other hand, are harder to digest and should be avoided. This is because whole grains contain more fiber, which can exacerbate diarrhea. A study by the University of California, Davis, found that refined grains are gentler on the digestive system during episodes of diarrhea.
1.2. Regular Pasta: What Are the Benefits?
Plain pasta, like plain toast, can help firm up stools. Saltine crackers and pretzels also have a similar effect. These foods are easy to digest and provide a source of carbohydrates for energy. According to a report from Harvard Medical School, simple carbohydrates like pasta and crackers are less likely to irritate the gut than complex carbohydrates.
1.3. White Potatoes: How Can They Help?
Plain white potatoes, boiled or steamed, can be beneficial. Avoid the peels, as they can add to digestive problems. Cooked carrots, plain white rice, and squash are also good choices. Potatoes are rich in potassium, an essential electrolyte that can be lost due to diarrhea. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition indicates that potatoes can help replenish potassium levels.
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1.4. Bananas: Why Are They a Good Choice?
Bananas are easily digested and bland, making them a great option for settling diarrhea. They are also a good source of potassium, an important electrolyte. A study in Nutrition Reviews found that bananas can help restore electrolyte balance in individuals with diarrhea.
1.5. Applesauce: What Makes It Effective?
Applesauce is preferable to raw apples because the skin of raw apples contains insoluble fiber, which can worsen diarrhea. Applesauce contains pectin, which helps bind stools. Canned pears are another safe fruit choice. According to a study by Cornell University’s Food Science Department, pectin in applesauce helps reduce diarrhea symptoms.
1.6. Cereals: Which Types Are Best?
Hot cereals like farina (milled wheat) are easy to digest and often vitamin-fortified. Oats are also a rich source of soluble fiber, which can help firm stools. A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights that soluble fiber in oats aids in regulating bowel movements.
1.7. Lean Protein: What Are the Best Options?
Skinless chicken breast is an excellent choice. You can also eat lean, fat-free cuts of turkey, beef, pork, and fish. Soft-cooked eggs are also a diarrhea-friendly source of protein. Lean proteins are easier to digest and provide essential nutrients without irritating the digestive system. Research from the Mayo Clinic emphasizes the importance of lean proteins during digestive upset.
1.8. Low-Fat Yogurt: Why Is It Recommended Despite Dairy Restrictions?
While most dairy should be avoided, low-fat yogurt is a good choice because it contains probiotics. Probiotics help restore the healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut, which aids in normal digestion. Kefir is another dairy-based probiotic option. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that probiotics in yogurt can reduce the duration of diarrhea.
2. What Foods Should You Avoid When You Have Diarrhea?
Certain foods can worsen diarrhea symptoms and should be avoided to promote quicker relief. Knowing what to avoid is as important as knowing what to eat.
2.1. Dairy: Why Limit Dairy Intake?
Limit dairy products other than yogurt and kefir until your diarrhea improves. Lactose, the sugar found in dairy products, can be difficult to digest and aggravate diarrhea. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) recommends avoiding lactose-rich foods during diarrhea episodes.
2.2. Whole Grains: What Makes Them Problematic?
Avoid oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat and other bread products that contain the bran and germ of the grain. The refined grains in white bread are easier to digest. Whole grains are high in fiber, which can stimulate bowel movements and worsen diarrhea.
2.3. Nuts and Seeds: Why Avoid Them?
Avoid whole grains, nuts, and seeds, as these can worsen diarrhea. You should also avoid beans and legumes, including lentils. These foods are high in fiber and can be difficult to digest.
2.4. Raw Vegetables: What’s the Issue?
Raw vegetables and dried fruit of any kind are harder to digest and should be avoided. Avoid cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, as they cause gas and bloating. Also, skip corn, onion, and garlic while you have symptoms. Raw vegetables contain high amounts of fiber and can irritate the digestive tract. According to a study by Johns Hopkins Medicine, cooking vegetables makes them easier to digest.
2.5. Fried and Fatty Foods: Why Are They Not Recommended?
Avoid fatty red meat, particularly ground beef or processed meats like sausage, bacon, and salami, which are high in saturated fat. Fried foods can also be harder to digest, including snack products like potato chips. Fatty and fried foods can increase bowel movements and worsen diarrhea.
2.6. Butters and Sauces: What Should You Avoid?
Nut butters, like peanut butter, can make symptoms worse, as can regular butter because it’s a dairy product to be avoided. Also avoid sauces, gravy, mayonnaise, or heavy spices. These foods are high in fat and can be difficult to digest.
2.7. Sugar-Free Candy: Why Is It Problematic?
Avoid treats made with artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, xylitol, or erythritol, which have a mild laxative effect. Avoid ice cream, baked goods, pudding, and whipped topping, which can contain these sweeteners as well as fats and other problem ingredients. Artificial sweeteners can draw water into the bowel, leading to increased bowel movements. A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests limiting artificial sweetener intake to avoid digestive issues.
3. What Should You Drink When You Have Diarrhea?
Replacing fluids and electrolytes lost to diarrhea is essential. Plain water is a good option, but coconut water, electrolyte-rich sports drinks, and other beverages may be used as long as they are low in sugar.
3.1. Recommended Drinks
- Clear bone broth: Provides electrolytes and is easy to digest.
- Weakly brewed decaffeinated tea: Can help soothe the digestive system.
- Kefir: A dairy-based probiotic option that can help restore gut balance.
3.2. Drinks to Avoid
- Caffeinated coffee and tea: Can stimulate bowel movements.
- Citrus fruit juices: Can irritate the digestive system due to their acidity.
- Sodas: Often high in sugar and can cause gas and bloating.
- Alcohol: Can dehydrate and irritate the digestive system.
- Carbonated drinks: Can cause gas and bloating.
- Especially hot or cold drinks: Can stimulate bowel movements.
These drinks can stimulate bowel movements or cause gas and bloating. Limiting milk intake is also advised.
3.3. Additional Hydration Tips
Ice pops can prevent dehydration, especially in small children. Brands like Pedialyte make freezer pops that are low in sugar and offer added nutrition. Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent complications from diarrhea.
4. What Are the Benefits of a Diarrhea Diet?
A temporary, restrictive diet can bind watery stools and give your bowels a chance to rest. It can also help restore lost fluids and balance electrolytes (electrically charged minerals like sodium and calcium) in your body.
4.1. Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber
Foods that help are generally high in soluble fiber. Soluble fiber, found in potatoes, bananas, and refined wheat, absorbs fluid in the gut, slowing digestion down. Insoluble fiber is found in bran, several types of fruits, and whole grains. This type of fiber doesn’t absorb fluid and can speed up digestion, making diarrhea worse. A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition emphasizes the importance of soluble fiber in managing diarrhea.
4.2. Short-Term Relief and Management
The diarrhea diet is intended for the short-term treatment of occasional diarrhea. It can also help ease sudden, severe bouts of diarrhea in people with chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and celiac disease. Managing diet can significantly improve the quality of life for those with chronic conditions.
5. Modifications to the Diarrhea Diet: Tailoring Your Approach
Modifications may also be made for the following medical conditions: Diarrhea diet modifications can depend on an individuals underlying medical condition to consider.
5.1. Diabetes
For individuals with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial while following a diarrhea diet. Focus on portion control and choose carbohydrate sources that have a lower impact on blood sugar.
- Recommended Foods: Opt for smaller portions of white rice or toast and monitor blood glucose levels regularly. Include lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables to balance the diet.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid sugary drinks and processed snacks, as they can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar.
5.2. Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance can exacerbate diarrhea symptoms, so it’s important to choose dairy-free alternatives or lactose-free products.
- Recommended Foods: Lactose-free yogurt (containing probiotics) can be a good option. Other alternatives include almond milk, rice milk, and coconut milk.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid traditional dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream.
5.3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Individuals with IBS may experience diarrhea as one of their primary symptoms. A low-FODMAP diet can help manage symptoms.
- Recommended Foods: Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast (BRAT diet), and well-cooked carrots are generally well-tolerated.
- Foods to Limit: High-FODMAP foods like apples, pears, high-fructose corn syrup, and certain vegetables can worsen symptoms.
5.4. Celiac Disease
For individuals with celiac disease, it is crucial to maintain a strict gluten-free diet to avoid triggering an immune response that can lead to diarrhea.
- Recommended Foods: Gluten-free bread, rice, gluten-free pasta, and naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. Always check labels for hidden sources of gluten.
5.5. Pregnancy
Pregnant women need to maintain adequate nutrition while managing diarrhea. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the diet meets the nutritional needs of both the mother and the baby.
- Recommended Foods: Easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, toast, and cooked vegetables. Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte-rich beverages is also important.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid foods that can trigger diarrhea, such as spicy foods, high-fat foods, and caffeine.
5.6. Kidney Disease
Individuals with kidney disease need to manage their electrolyte intake carefully. High potassium or sodium levels can be problematic.
- Recommended Foods: Boiled potatoes (to reduce potassium content), white rice, and other low-potassium options.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and certain vegetables, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
5.7. Food Allergies
Individuals with food allergies need to avoid allergens that can trigger diarrhea or other allergic reactions.
- Recommended Foods: Ensure a diet free from known allergens. Focus on safe foods that are easily digestible, such as rice, cooked chicken, and certain vegetables.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid foods known to cause allergic reactions, such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.
5.8. Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, and certain foods can exacerbate symptoms, including diarrhea.
- Recommended Foods: Bland, non-irritating foods like plain rice, toast, and cooked vegetables.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid spicy foods, acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as these can irritate the stomach lining.
5.9. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis involves inflammation of the pancreas, and a low-fat diet is typically recommended to reduce pancreatic stimulation.
- Recommended Foods: Easily digestible, low-fat foods like rice, cooked vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid high-fat foods, fried foods, and alcohol, as these can exacerbate pancreatic inflammation.
5.10. Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection in one or more small pouches in the digestive tract. A low-fiber diet is often recommended during acute episodes.
- Recommended Foods: Low-fiber foods like white rice, white bread, and cooked vegetables without skins.
- Foods to Limit: Avoid high-fiber foods like whole grains, nuts, seeds, and raw vegetables during acute episodes.
6. When Should You See a Healthcare Provider?
Talk with your healthcare provider if your diarrhea doesn’t go away, or you have other symptoms like fever, fatigue, or trouble breathing. Persistent diarrhea can indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention.
6.1. Medications and Underlying Conditions
Ask your healthcare provider if it is safe for you to try anti-diarrheal medications. They could be dangerous in certain conditions, such as some bacterial infections and colitis. Keep in mind that underlying health conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome, may need treatment. Certain medications can interact negatively with anti-diarrheal drugs.
6.2. Reintroducing Foods
If symptoms have eased by day three, you can start incorporating other foods back into the diet over a week to 14 days. Gradual reintroduction helps identify any foods that may be triggering symptoms.
6.3. Nutritional Deficiencies
A diarrhea diet is generally safe for older children and adults but watch for signs and symptoms of nutritional deficiency, including:
- Paleness
- Weakness
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Depression
- High blood pressure
A diarrhea diet is not intended for long-term use. If the diet doesn’t significantly improve symptoms within a couple of days, you may need other treatments, including anti-diarrhea drugs like Imodium A-D (loperamide). Long-term restrictive diets can lead to nutrient deficiencies and other health problems.
7. Summary: Managing Diarrhea Through Diet
You can often manage occasional bouts of diarrhea by changing the foods you eat for a few days. The diarrhea diet is a short-term strategy focused on foods that are bland, binding, and gentle on your digestive tract. Ample hydration is also needed.
7.1. Special Considerations for Children
Your child’s healthcare provider should oversee dietary changes in babies and toddlers with diarrhea. Restrictive diets of any sort may be harmful to small children. Infants and young children have specific nutritional needs that must be met.
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9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About What Food To Eat With Diarrhea
9.1. What is the BRAT diet, and why is it recommended for diarrhea?
The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is recommended because these foods are bland, easy to digest, and can help bind stools, reducing diarrhea symptoms.
9.2. Can I eat yogurt when I have diarrhea?
Yes, low-fat yogurt with probiotics is recommended. Probiotics help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut, aiding digestion.
9.3. Are there any specific fruits I should avoid during diarrhea?
Avoid fruits with high fiber content, such as raw apples (with skin), berries, and dried fruits, as they can worsen diarrhea.
9.4. What kind of protein is best to eat when you have diarrhea?
Lean proteins like skinless chicken breast, turkey, and fish are best. These are easy to digest and provide essential nutrients without adding stress to the digestive system.
9.5. Should I avoid dairy products altogether when I have diarrhea?
Limit most dairy products due to lactose, which can be hard to digest. However, low-fat yogurt with probiotics is an exception.
9.6. Is it okay to drink coffee or tea when I have diarrhea?
Avoid caffeinated coffee and tea as they can stimulate bowel movements and worsen diarrhea. Opt for decaffeinated herbal teas instead.
9.7. What vegetables are safe to eat during a bout of diarrhea?
Cooked carrots, squash, and potatoes (without the skin) are safe and easy to digest. Avoid raw vegetables and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.
9.8. Can I eat spicy foods when I have diarrhea?
No, avoid spicy foods as they can irritate the digestive system and worsen diarrhea symptoms.
9.9. How important is hydration when you have diarrhea?
Hydration is crucial. Drink plenty of water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich beverages to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
9.10. When should I see a doctor if my diarrhea doesn’t improve with dietary changes?
If your diarrhea doesn’t improve after a few days, or if you experience other symptoms like fever, severe abdominal pain, or dehydration, consult a healthcare provider.
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By choosing the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones, you can effectively manage diarrhea and promote a quicker recovery. Remember to stay hydrated and consult with a healthcare provider if your symptoms persist. With the right approach, you can regain control of your digestive health and get back to feeling your best.
