Discover effective dietary tips for managing diarrhea, including foods to include and avoid. Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for soothing your digestive system and promoting recovery.

Diarrhea is characterized by frequent loose bowel movements that often resolve on their own within a few days. Adjusting your diet can significantly alleviate symptoms and support healing.

Foods to Eat During Diarrhea

Choose bland, low-fiber foods rich in potassium and pectin to replenish nutrients and soothe your digestive tract. Simple carbohydrate foods can help reduce bowel frequency.

Recommended Foods:

Bananas: Provide potassium and help firm up stool.

Yogurt: Promotes healthy digestion and calms gut irritation.

White rice: Easily digestible and adds bulk to stool.

Steamed carrots, celery, potatoes: Gentle on the stomach.

White bread and pasta: Easy energy sources that firm stool.

Lean proteins like baked chicken, turkey, fish: Nutrient-dense and mild on digestion.

Applesauce: Contains pectin to help reduce diarrhea symptoms.

Clear broths: Keep hydration levels up; avoid spices for better comfort.

Foods to Avoid During Diarrhea

Steer clear of foods that can exacerbate symptoms, including high-fiber items, caffeinated beverages, and artificial sweeteners. Limit foods that cause bloating or gas.

Stay hydrated by limiting excessive oral rehydration solutions and foods that cause bloating. Proper hydration is crucial for recovery.

To Avoid:

Dairy (except yogurt): Lactose intolerance may worsen symptoms.

Legumes: Can cause bloating and gas.

Spicy foods: May irritate the intestinal lining.

Greasy and fatty foods: May increase diarrhea severity.

Cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli: Lead to bloating.

Fruits such as pears, peaches, plums, dried fruits: Can produce gas.

Nuts: May trigger bowel movements.

Whole grain bread and pasta: Potentially irritating to the intestines.

Ensure you stay well-hydrated to replace lost fluids and consult your healthcare provider for personalized dietary guidance to speed up recovery.