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Diarrhea Nutrition Tips

Why Diarrhea Can Be More Serious for Older Adults

Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, weakness, and electrolyte imbalance — which can be especially dangerous as we age.

Common causes include:

  • Infections (viral or bacterial)
  • Medication side effects (especially antibiotics)
  • Food intolerances (lactose, artificial sweeteners)
  • Chronic conditions (IBS, diabetes)
  • Recent hospitalization or illness

What Counts as Diarrhea?

You may have diarrhea if you experience:

  • Three or more loose or watery stools in one day
  • Urgent need to use the bathroom
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Bloating or nausea

If symptoms last more than 2–3 days, contact your healthcare provider.

Nutrition Goals During Diarrhea

When diarrhea occurs, your digestive system needs gentle care.

Focus on:

✔ Preventing dehydration
✔ Replacing lost nutrients
✔ Eating easy-to-digest foods
✔ Avoiding foods that worsen symptoms

Stay Hydrated: Your Top Priority

Diarrhea causes fluid loss.

Aim for:
👉 8–10 cups of fluid daily (or more if recommended)

Good Choices

  • Water
  • Oral rehydration solutions
  • Broth or clear soups
  • Decaffeinated tea
  • Electrolyte drinks (low sugar)

⚠️ Sip fluids slowly throughout the day.

Foods That Are Easier on the Stomach

Recommended Foods

Grains & Starches

  • White rice
  • White toast
  • Plain pasta
  • Cream of wheat
  • Saltine crackers

Fruits

  • Bananas
  • Applesauce
  • Canned peaches or pears (in juice, not syrup)
  • Melons

Vegetables (well-cooked)

  • Carrots
  • Green beans
  • Potatoes without skin
  • Zucchini

Protein Foods

  • Baked or boiled chicken
  • Turkey
  • Eggs
  • Tofu
  • Smooth nut butters (if tolerated)

Dairy (if tolerated)

  • Yogurt with live cultures
  • Lactose-free milk

Foods & Drinks to Limit or Avoid

May Worsen Diarrhea

  • Fried or greasy foods
  • Spicy foods
  • Whole grains and high-fiber foods (temporarily)
  • Raw vegetables
  • Dried fruits and prunes
  • Sugary drinks and sweets
  • Caffeine (coffee, colas, energy drinks)
  • Alcohol
  • Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, xylitol)

⚠️ If lactose intolerance is suspected, avoid milk and soft cheeses.

Tips for Eating During Recovery

  • Eat small meals every 3–4 hours
  • Choose bland, simple foods
  • Avoid very hot or very cold foods
  • Rest after eating
  • Gradually reintroduce fiber once symptoms improve

Sample Gentle 1-Day Meal Plan

Breakfast

  • Cream of wheat
  • Banana
  • Decaffeinated tea

Morning Snack

  • Saltine crackers
  • Applesauce

Lunch

  • Chicken and rice soup
  • White toast
  • Water

Afternoon Snack

  • Plain yogurt (if tolerated)

Dinner

  • Baked chicken
  • Mashed potatoes (no skin)
  • Cooked carrots
  • Herbal tea

Evening Snack

  • Crackers or toast

Watch for Signs of Dehydration

Contact a healthcare provider if you notice:

  • Dark urine or very little urine
  • Dizziness or confusion
  • Dry mouth or lips
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Extreme weakness

Medication & Supplement Considerations

Some products may worsen diarrhea:

  • Magnesium supplements
  • Certain antibiotics
  • Sugar alcohols in “sugar-free” foods

Always check with your provider before using anti-diarrheal medications.

When to Seek Medical Care

Call your healthcare provider if you have:

  • Diarrhea lasting more than 2–3 days
  • Fever
  • Blood in stool
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Signs of dehydration
  • Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

Key Takeaway

Diarrhea is usually temporary, but for older adults it requires careful attention. Hydration, gentle foods, and gradual recovery are key to healing.

Medical Disclaimer

This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding a medical condition, medications, or dietary changes. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking care because of information in this guide. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Sources:

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.