Diarrhea is a common condition that causes frequent, loose, and watery bowel movements that are often accompanied by abdominal discomfort and dehydration.
The good news is that a well-planned diet can play a crucial role in providing relief through managing symptoms, promoting recovery, and preventing dehydration. The following are steps that may help to manage symptoms related to diarrhea:
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Foods to Avoid: Let’s first review foods that you may want to avoid because they can potentially increase the frequency of diarrhea. Foods that are spicy, greasy, or high in fat can increase abdominal discomfort and urgency. These are foods like pizza, hamburgers, french fries, butter, or beef. Dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol can also worsen diarrhea symptoms. However, probiotic-rich foods such as yogurts can be beneficial, as they help restore healthy gut bacteria.
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The BRAT Diet: The BRAT diet may help to manage symptoms. The BRAT diet stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These are easily digestible foods that are low in fiber yet have binding properties that can help firm up stools. They also provide essential nutrients.
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Soluble Fiber Foods: Gradually incorporating foods high in soluble fiber such as oats, quinoa, brown rice, berries, apples, avocados, and sweet potatoes can help absorb excess water in your stool to promote a firmer bowel movement.
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Hydrate: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration due to loss of fluids and electrolytes. Drink plenty of fluids from water, clear broths, or herbal decaffeinated teas. Teas such as ginger tea or chamomile can help soothe abdominal discomfort. Electrolyte replacement drinks can sometimes be beneficial as well to help replenish minerals lost, although it is recommended to steer clear of ones with artificial sweeteners and dyes.
When faced with diarrhea, following a balanced diet can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms and promoting a faster recovery. If you're experiencing diarrhea, remember to always contact your provider to discuss your symptoms and treatment.