Diarrhea Diet: What Foods To Eat?

If you’re suffering from diarrhea, you’re not alone. It’s a common problem that many things, including food poisoning, bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can cause. While the symptoms of diarrhea can vary from person to person, most people agree that it’s not exactly fun. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help ease the symptoms and get relief fast. This blog post will discuss what to eat when you have diarrhea.

Foods To Eat When You Have Diarrhea

If you have diarrhea, it’s important to focus on eating foods that are easy to digest. Generally speaking, these would include the following:

1. Bananas

Bananas are a great source of potassium and electrolytes. Potassium is an important mineral for the body and helps regulate fluid levels, muscle, and heart function. Electrolytes are minerals that dissolve in water and help to maintain a balance of fluids in the body. They also help to transmit nerve signals and support muscle function. When the body loses fluids due to diarrhea, it can also lose electrolytes. As a result, eating Bananas can help to replace lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration. Bananas are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to bulk up stools and promote regularity. In addition, Bananas are low in acidity, making them gentle on the stomach and less likely to aggravate diarrhea symptoms. For these reasons, Bananas can be a helpful part of the diet for people with diarrhea.

2. Applesauce

Applesauce is light yet nutritious food that is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. It is often recommended for people with diarrhea, as it helps to absorb water and add bulk to the stool. Applesauce is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, which can help to replenish electrolytes lost during bouts of diarrhea. In addition, applesauce is a low-fiber food, making it less likely to irritate the digestive system. For these reasons, applesauce can be a helpful part of the diet for people dealing with diarrhea.

3. Plain Toast

Toast is a simple food that can be easy on the stomach during bouts of diarrhea. It is bland and not greasy, so it will not aggravate the stomach lining. Toast can also help to absorb excess stomach acids and settle the stomach. However, it is important to avoid butter or margarine on toast, as these can increase symptoms of diarrhea. Toast is best eaten plain or with a light spreading of jam or honey. When choosing bread for toast, it is best to opt for white or whole-wheat bread that is not too dense. This bread will be easier to digest than rye or sourdough. Toast can be a helpful part of your diet during bouts of diarrhea, but be sure to listen to your body and eat other foods. Bland foods like rice, bananas, and applesauce can also be easy on the stomach and help with diarrhea. Every person is different, so it is important to find what works best for you.

4. Rice

Rice has long been a staple food in many cultures, and for a good reason. It is light and easy to digest, making it an ideal food when you feel under the weather. Rice can also help to settle an upset stomach due to diarrhea. The starchy quality of rice helps to absorb water and add bulk to stool, which can help to solidify loose stools and make them easier to pass. In addition, rice is a bland food that is unlikely to aggravate an upset stomach. For these reasons, rice can be a helpful part of your diet when dealing with diarrhea.

5. Broth-Based Soups

Broth-based soups can be a great option for people with diarrhea. The liquid base helps hydrate the body and replenish lost fluids, while the broth helps to settle an upset stomach. Additionally, adding vegetables or cooked chicken can help increase the soup’s nutritional value. Just be sure to avoid dairy-based soups, as these can increase symptoms of diarrhea. Broth-based soups can also provide small amounts of fiber, which can help to add bulk to stools and promote regularity. For these reasons, broth-based soups are a great option when dealing with diarrhea.

6. Yogurt

Yogurt can be a beneficial food for people with diarrhea, as it is rich in probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. This can help speed up recovery and reduce symptoms of diarrhea. When choosing yogurt, look for plain or Greek varieties that contain active cultures. Avoid flavored or sweetened yogurts, as these often contain added sugar and artificial sweeteners. Yogurt can be eaten plain or added to smoothies, oatmeal, or other dishes. It is a great way to increase probiotics in the diet and promote digestive health during bouts of diarrhea.

7. Bland Vegetables

Bland vegetables are another good option for people dealing with diarrhea. These vegetables are low in fiber, so they will be easier to digest than other varieties. Vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and squash can provide vitamins and minerals without aggravating the digestive system. Cook these vegetables until they are soft to make them more easily digestible. Bland vegetables can be served as a side dish or added to soups and other dishes.

8. Caffeine-Free Beverages

When dealing with diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated. It is best to avoid drinks that contain caffeine, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners, as these can increase symptoms of diarrhea. Instead, opt for beverages such as herbal tea, sparkling water, and electrolyte drinks. If plain water is too boring for you, add some fresh citrus or a splash of 100% fruit juice for flavor. Hydrating beverages can help to replenish lost fluids and restore balance in the body.

Conclusion

When dealing with diarrhea, it is important to remember that everyone’s body is different. Listen to your body and find what works best for you. Try sticking with a bland diet of easily digestible foods such as toast, rice, broth-based soups, yogurt, bland vegetables, and caffeine-free beverages. These foods can help you stay hydrated, add bulk to stools, and restore balance in your digestive system. Staying on a diarrhea diet for a few days can help you recover quickly and reduce symptoms of diarrhea. TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track, offers treatment for various illnesses and can help you get back on your feet quickly. If you plan to visit the location nearest you, signing in ahead of time through our online On My Way system could reduce your wait time once you arrive.