Experiencing diarrhea can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Knowing What Foods Can You Eat If You Have Diarrhea and what to avoid is crucial for managing symptoms and aiding recovery. This guide provides expert advice on dietary choices to help you navigate this digestive issue.
When diarrhea strikes, your gut needs a break. Focusing on easily digestible, bland foods can help soothe your digestive system and prevent further irritation. Peter Higgins, MD, PhD, director of the inflammatory bowel disease program at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, recommends prioritizing simple, easily digestible options, especially during the initial 24 hours.
“It is best to eat thicker, bland foods, including oatmeal, bananas, plain rice, and applesauce,” he advises. These foods are gentle on the stomach and help solidify stool.
Oatmeal with banana slices is a great option for breakfast when dealing with diarrhea, providing gentle fiber and essential nutrients.
Here’s a more detailed look at foods generally well-tolerated during a bout of diarrhea:
- BRAT Diet: This classic recommendation includes Bananas, Rice (white), Applesauce, and Toast (white). These are low in fiber and easy to digest.
- Boiled Potatoes: Plain boiled potatoes are gentle and provide essential electrolytes.
- Plain Crackers: Saltines or other plain crackers can help absorb excess fluid.
- Pretzels: Similar to crackers, pretzels offer a source of sodium and are easy on the stomach.
- Baked Chicken (Skinless & Fat-Free): A lean protein source like baked chicken can help maintain strength without irritating the digestive system, just be sure to remove the skin and any visible fat.
Beyond these staples, consider incorporating foods with probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can help restore balance to your gut flora.
One review suggested that foods with probiotics — often called “good” bacteria — may shorten the duration of a bout of diarrhea. Probiotics work by releasing chemicals that break down damaging toxins produced by unhealthy bacteria that can cause illnesses, including diarrhea.
Probiotic-rich foods include:
- Yogurt (look for “live and active cultures”)
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
Selection of probiotic-rich foods including yogurt, kimchi and kombucha
However, if you suspect lactose intolerance might be contributing to your diarrhea, proceed cautiously with dairy.
Foods to Avoid When You Have Diarrhea
Equally important to knowing what foods can you eat if you have diarrhea is understanding which foods can worsen your condition. Certain foods can irritate your digestive tract or exacerbate symptoms.
The following are generally best avoided:
- Fatty Foods: Fried foods, greasy dishes, and foods covered in gravy can be difficult to digest and worsen diarrhea.
- Dairy Products: Milk, butter, ice cream, and cheese can be problematic, even if you’re not typically lactose intolerant. Diarrhea can temporarily increase your sensitivity to lactose.
- Alcohol and Sodas: Alcohol is dehydrating and should be avoided. Sodas, especially those with high-fructose corn syrup, can overwhelm your digestive system and lead to further digestive distress.
- Artificial Sweeteners: Sorbitol and other artificial sweeteners can have a laxative effect.
- Gas-Producing Foods: While generally healthy, vegetables like cabbage, beans, broccoli, and cauliflower can increase intestinal gas and discomfort.
- Potentially Spoiled Foods: Avoid foods that may have been mishandled or improperly stored, including raw meat or fish.
Other Strategies for Managing Diarrhea
Beyond dietary changes, staying hydrated is crucial. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so replenishing fluids is essential.
Dr. Higgins recommends “liquids with sugar and salt — Pedialyte or full-salt soups work well.” He emphasizes that if your urine is not clear or you are not producing much urine, you are not drinking enough.
Drinking electrolyte-rich beverages like Pedialyte is essential for preventing dehydration, a common complication of diarrhea.
In some cases, over-the-counter medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help slow bowel movements. However, Dr. Higgins advises using these medications for only a day or two, and only if you don’t suspect an infection or see blood in your stool.
If dietary changes and simple remedies aren’t effective, or if your symptoms persist for more than a few days and include bleeding, gas, and bloating, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Conclusion
Managing diarrhea effectively involves knowing what foods can you eat if you have diarrhea and what to avoid. Focusing on bland, easily digestible foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. Remember to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen.
