How to deal with Diarrhea: Foods, Hydration, and Recovery Tips
Updated: Nov 12, 2023
In this article, we'll explore dietary strategies to help you deal with diarrhea (or diarrhoea), focusing on foods to eat, foods to avoid, suitable drinks, and those best avoided.
Chapters:
How to deal with diarrhea: Tips for Recovery
At My French Dietitian, we're dedicated to providing you with accurate, science-backed information for your health and well-being. All our articles are written or reviewed by a registered dietitian with 25+ years of professional experience.
What is diarrhea?
Diarrhoea is a common digestive issue that can disrupt daily life. It's often characterized by loose or watery stools and can be caused by various factors, including infections, food intolerances, or underlying medical conditions.
While diarrhea can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, managing it effectively is crucial for a quick recovery.
Here we will learn how to deal with Diarrhoea and will give some foods, hydration, and recovery tips.
Related article: foods to eat and avoid when you suffer gastroenteritis.
Foods to eat for diarrhea
When diarrhea strikes, opting for easily digestible foods is essential. Some diarrhea-friendly options include:
Bananas: Rich in potassium and easy on the stomach.
Rice: Plain white rice provides carbohydrates for energy.
Applesauce: Helps bulk up stools.
Plain Yogurt: Contains probiotics that can aid digestion.
Boiled Potatoes: Mild and starchy, they provide energy.
These foods are gentle on your digestive system and can help soothe an upset stomach.
Foods to avoid for diarrhea
Certain foods can worsen diarrhea or irritate the stomach. To promote recovery, consider avoiding:
Fried and Greasy Foods: High-fat foods can exacerbate symptoms.
Spicy Dishes: Spices may irritate the digestive tract.
Dairy Products: Lactose-containing items can be hard to digest.
Artificial Sweeteners: Some sweeteners can have a laxative effect.
Steering clear of these items can aid in symptom relief.
Appropriate Drinks for diarrhea
Staying hydrated is crucial when dealing with diarrhea. Opt for beverages that can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes:
Clear Broths: Provide essential nutrients and hydration.
Oral Rehydration Solutions: Specifically designed to replace lost fluids.
Herbal Infusions: Soothing and hydrating.
Water: Plain water is excellent for rehydration.
Proper hydration can prevent complications associated with diarrhea.
Drinks to avoid with diarrhea
Some beverages can worsen diarrhea symptoms or dehydrate you further. It's advisable to avoid:
Caffeinated Drinks: Caffeine in coffee and tea can have a laxative effect.
Sugary Beverages: Sugars in soft drinks can draw water into the intestines.
Alcohol: Can lead to increased fluid loss.
Sparkling water: Can cause bloating, gas and distend the intestines.
Steer clear of these drinks to facilitate recovery.
Diarrhea-Relief Meal Plan
Here's a sample meal plan for a day to help manage diarrhea effectively:
Breakfast: Plain yogurt with sliced banana.
Snack: Applesauce.
Lunch: White rice with boiled potatoes.
Snack: Herbal tea.
Dinner: Clear chicken broth with well-cooked vegetables.
Eating small, frequent meals can aid in symptom management.
How to deal with Diarrhoea: Tips for Recovery
In addition to your dietary choices, consider these tips for a speedier recovery:
Chew Thoroughly: Properly chewing your food aids digestion.
Small, Frequent Meals: Prevents overloading your digestive system.
Avoid Overeating: Listen to your body's hunger cues.
When to seek medical attention
While dietary changes can often help manage diarrhea, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional if:
Diarrhea persists for more than a couple of days.
You experience severe dehydration symptoms.
Blood or mucus is present in stool.
Conclusion:
Incorporating the right foods and drinks into your diet can significantly aid in managing diarrhea.
Remember that everyone's body is different, so it's essential to pay attention to how your body responds to specific foods during episodes of diarrhea.
Prioritizing hydration, consuming gentle foods, and practicing good hygiene are key steps in dealing with diarrhea effectively.
Traveling or navigating daily life, understanding how to manage diarrhea is a valuable skill for maintaining overall well-being.
By making informed dietary choices, you can help your body recover faster and get back to enjoying life without disruption.
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The information provided on this nutrition blog is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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