Diarrhea, characterized by loose, watery stools, can disrupt your daily life. While over-the-counter (OTC) medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can provide relief, understanding what food can help stop diarrhea fast is crucial for a speedy recovery. Remember that diarrhea caused by a virus or bacteria often resolves within two to three days without specific treatment.
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Dietary Modifications: Your First Line of Defense
When experiencing diarrhea, dietary adjustments play a significant role in managing and alleviating symptoms. Focusing on easily digestible foods while avoiding those that exacerbate the condition is key.
What to Eat to Stop Diarrhea
Bland, low-fiber, and fermented foods can help resolve diarrhea more quickly and soothe an upset stomach. The BRAT diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, is a common recommendation for adults.
- Bananas: Easy to digest and rich in potassium, which can be lost during diarrhea.
- Rice: White rice is a simple carbohydrate that’s gentle on the stomach.
- Applesauce: Provides pectin, a soluble fiber that can help firm up stool.
- Toast: Plain white toast is low in fiber and easy to digest.
The BRAT diet should only be followed for a short period. As symptoms improve, gradually introduce other bland, nutritious foods.
Other easy-to-digest foods include:
- Baked, skinless chicken breasts
- Plain cereal (like rice cereal)
- Baked potatoes (without skin)
- Chicken soup with saltine crackers
For children with mild diarrhea who are not vomiting, maintaining their normal diet is generally recommended. If vomiting occurs or diarrhea becomes severe, consult a healthcare provider.
The Power of Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are a natural source of probiotics, beneficial gut bacteria that can help restore normal bowel function by replacing bacteria lost during diarrhea.
Examples of fermented foods include:
- Miso
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
- Aged soft cheeses
- Cottage cheese
- Green olives
- Sourdough bread
- Tempeh
- Yogurt/kefir
Note: Kimchi, while a fermented food, might worsen diarrhea symptoms due to its spices.
Foods to Avoid When You Have Diarrhea
Certain foods can worsen diarrhea. Until your symptoms subside, it’s best to avoid:
- Fried and other fatty or greasy foods
- High-fiber grain products (e.g., bran, whole grains, and brown rice)
- Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower)
- Beans and legumes
- Bell peppers
- Corn
- Berries
- Prunes
- Foods sweetened with sorbitol
- Certain dairy products (e.g., milk, cheese, and ice cream)
Beverages to avoid include:
- Coffee
- Caffeinated drinks
- Prune juice
- Sugary drinks
- Carbonated drinks (e.g., sodas or seltzer)
- Alcohol
These can cause gas, bloating, or have a laxative effect.
Staying Hydrated: A Key Component
Dehydration is a significant concern with diarrhea. Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes by drinking plenty of water and rehydration drinks.
For children, toddlers, and babies with mild diarrhea who aren’t vomiting, continue their normal intake of breast milk, cow’s milk, or formula. Pediatric rehydration drinks like Pedialyte, Enfalyte, or Gastrolyte may be beneficial for young children experiencing both diarrhea and vomiting. Always refer to product labels for age-appropriate use.
Medications for Diarrhea Relief
OTC anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) can help alleviate diarrhea symptoms. In severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe medication, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections or antiparasitics for parasitic infections.
Other Home Remedies for Diarrhea
Several drinks are recognized as home remedies for diarrhea:
- Rice water: The starchy solution may help reduce the frequency of loose stools.
- Chamomile tea: May relieve upset stomach and diarrhea when combined with other herbs (research is limited).
- Green tea: Studies suggest it may reduce diarrhea incidence in people undergoing radiotherapy.
- Lemongrass tea: Some studies suggest lemongrass tea may help relieve diarrhea.
How to Prepare Rice Water
- Combine 1 to 2 cups of water with 1/2 cup of white or brown rice (avoid instant rice).
- Boil for 10 minutes or until the water looks cloudy.
- Drain, saving the water, and let cool.
- Drink 1 cup, two to three times per day.
Supplements for Diarrhea (Consult Your Doctor First)
While research is limited, some supplements are believed to aid in diarrhea relief:
- Glutamine: May lessen diarrhea after a gastrointestinal infection.
- Agrimony: Use with caution as it can affect blood pressure and may thin the blood.
- Barberry, Oregon grape, and goldenseal: Contain berberine, which may help with diarrhea caused by viruses or bacteria (avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding).
- Bilberry extract: Can thin the blood and may interact with diabetes medications.
- Blackberry or raspberry leaf: Said to help “dry” mucous membranes in the intestines (avoid if pregnant).
- Probiotics: May shorten a mild bout of diarrhea.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While mild diarrhea may resolve on its own, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Babies under 3 months old with diarrhea should always be seen by a healthcare provider.
Seek emergency care if you or your child experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent or severe diarrhea
- Signs of dehydration
- Blood in your stool
Signs of dehydration include:
- Diarrhea for three days or more
- Severe abdominal pain
- Black, tarry stools
- Fever over 102 degrees F (or over 100.4 for babies 3 months or younger)
- Little or no urination
- Extreme weakness
- Dry skin and mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Dark urine
- Sunken cheeks or eyes
- Skin that doesn’t retract when pinched
- Crying without tears
- Unusual sleepiness
Preventing Diarrhea: Proactive Measures
While complete prevention may not be possible, these steps can reduce your risk:
- Practice proper hygiene: Frequent handwashing reduces the spread of viruses causing diarrhea.
- Get vaccinated: Vaccines are available for rotavirus and cholera.
- Avoid eating spoiled food: Store and cook food at recommended temperatures.
- Avoid drinking contaminated water: Use bottled water or sealed beverages in areas with limited sanitation. Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water.
Conclusion
To stop diarrhea fast, focus on dietary modifications, staying hydrated, and, if necessary, using OTC medications. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements may also aid in recovery. If diarrhea persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms, seek prompt medical attention.
