When you have diarrhea, your body is losing fluids and electrolytes at an accelerated rate. This can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous if not treated promptly. It’s essential to replenish these lost fluids and nutrients. But, what foods to eat in diarrhea? Read the full article to find out the best and worst foods for diarrhea.
Is your diarrhea extremely severe? You might need professional help, click here to consult online with a General Physician now for instant treatment!
Diarrhea Symptoms
There are a few different symptoms of diarrhea, which can include:
- Watery stools
- Stools that are loose and runny
- Abdominal cramping or pain
- Bloating
- Gas
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever (in some cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Diarrhea can sometimes be a symptom of something more serious, such as an infection.
The BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet is a diet that is often recommended for people with diarrhea. The acronym BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are bland and low in fiber, which can help to firm up stools. The diet may also help to relieve symptoms like nausea and stomach pain.
Components of the BRAT Diet
- Bananas are a good source of potassium, which can help to prevent dehydration.
- Rice is a bland starch that can help to bind stool and make it less watery.
- Applesauce is easy on the stomach and contains pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can help to regulate bowel movements.
- Toast is also easy on the stomach and provides complex carbohydrates for energy.
Some people also add yogurt to the BRAT diet because of its probiotic content. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Also read: Can Diarrhea In Children Be Dangerous? Know The Facts!
Benefits of the BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet is low in fiber, which can help to solidify stool and make it less watery. It is also low in fat and sugar, which can further help to ease gastrointestinal symptoms.
However, research suggests that the BRAT diet might not best for children. Because while it may help to provide some relief from diarrhea, it is important to make sure that you are still getting enough nutrients and calories.
If you are experiencing severe diarrhea, it is best to speak with a doctor before starting the BRAT diet or any other dietary changes.
Best Foods for Diarrhea
Other than this, what foods to eat in diarrhea? Here are a few suggestions:
- Clear liquids like water, chicken broth, or herbal tea can help replace lost fluids and help to settle your stomach.
- Bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, or bananas can help to calm an upset stomach and stop diarrhea.
- Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or sauerkraut can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which may help to ease diarrhea symptoms.
Worst Foods for Diarrhea
Along with knowing what foods to eat in diarrhea, you should also learn about the foods that are not good safe to eat during this condition. You must avoid the following foods during diarrhea:
Dairy products
Dairy products are some of the worst foods for diarrhea because they can contain high amounts of lactose, which can be difficult to digest. They also contain some other substances that can irritate the digestive system and cause diarrhea.
Spicy foods
Spicy foods are another one of the worst foods for diarrhea because they can irritate the digestive system and cause inflammation. They can also stimulate the gut and cause increased bowel movements.
Fatty foods
Fatty foods are also not good for diarrhea because they can slow down digestion and make it more difficult for the body to absorb nutrients. They can increase stool production and contribute to diarrhea.
Learn more about Indigestion Meaning In Urdu
Caffeine
Caffeine is another one of the worst foods for diarrhea because it can stimulate the digestive system and cause increased bowel movements. It can dehydrate the body and contribute to diarrhea.
Processed foods
Processed foods contain high amounts of additives and preservatives that can irritate the digestive system. They can also be difficult to digest and contribute to diarrhea.
High-fiber foods
High-fiber foods are another one of the worst foods for diarrhea because they can increase stool production and increase diarrhea. They are also pretty hard to digest and cause abdominal pain.
Sugary foods
Sugary foods can stimulate the digestive system and cause increased bowel movements. Such foods can also contribute to dehydration and diarrhea.
Artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners can irritate the digestive system and cause inflammation contributing to dehydration and diarrhea.
Consult a General Physician!
If you have severe diarrhea or are vomiting, it’s important to see a doctor. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous. The BRAT diet may not be enough to prevent dehydration in these cases.
If you’re unsure whether the diet is right for you, talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider.
Click here to consult online with the Best General Physicians in Lahore now!
Can’t Find the App?
Android | IOS |
---|---|
FAQs
1. Which fruit is best for diarrhea?
You can try pectin-rich fruits such as applesauce, bananas, and yogurt. Pectin, a water-soluble fiber, aids in diarrhea relief.
2. What drinks help diarrhea?
Water, clear fruit juices, coconut water, oral rehydration treatments, and sports drinks are all good options to drink during diarrhea because they are great sources of clear liquids and electrolytes.
3. Can I eat eggs if I have diarrhea?
Yes, you can eat cooked eggs if you have diarrhea.