Diarrhea is a common medical condition that affects people of all ages. It is characterized by the frequent passing of loose or watery stools, which can be accompanied by nausea, cramps, and vomiting.
Diarrhea is often caused by viral or bacterial infections, food intolerances, or medications.
When you have diarrhea, your body loses fluid and important nutrients, which can lead to dehydration and weakness. It is therefore important to eat foods that are easy to digest, nutrient-dense, and hydrating.
Here are some of the best foods to eat when you have diarrhea:.
1. Bananas
Bananas are easy to digest and are packed with important nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium, and fiber. They can help restore lost nutrients and promote healthy digestion.
Bananas are also a good source of pectin, a soluble fiber that can help bulk up stools and reduce diarrhea.
2. Applesauce
Applesauce is another good food to eat when you have diarrhea. It is low in fiber and easy to digest, which can help soothe your stomach and promote healthy digestion.
Applesauce also contains pectin, which can help reduce diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements.
3. White Rice
White rice is bland and easy to digest, which makes it a good food choice when you have diarrhea. It is also an excellent source of carbohydrates, which can help provide your body with energy and fuel your digestive system.
White rice is also low in fiber, which can help reduce diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements.
4. Toast
Toast is another bland food that is easy to digest and can help soothe your stomach when you have diarrhea. It is also a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fuel your digestive system.
When eating toast, it is best to choose plain white bread without any added sugars or toppings.
5. Yogurt
Yogurt is a good food to eat when you have diarrhea because it is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote healthy digestion. Probiotics can help boost your immune system and prevent or reduce diarrhea.
Yogurt should be low in added sugars and high in live and active cultures.
6. Boiled Potatoes
Boiled potatoes are easy to digest and can provide your body with important nutrients, such as potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. They can also help reduce diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements.
When eating boiled potatoes, it is best to avoid butter, cheese, or other high-fat toppings.
7. Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is a hydrating and nourishing liquid that can help soothe your stomach when you have diarrhea. It is low in fiber and easy to digest, which can help promote healthy digestion.
Chicken broth is also a good source of protein and electrolytes, which can help restore lost nutrients and promote hydration.
8. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a good food to eat when you have diarrhea because it is low in fiber and easy to digest. It is also an excellent source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fuel your digestive system.
Oatmeal is also rich in soluble fiber, which can help reduce diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements.
9. Lean Protein
Lean protein, such as grilled chicken or fish, can provide your body with important nutrients, such as protein, zinc, and vitamin B. These nutrients can help restore lost nutrients and promote healthy digestion.
Lean protein is also low in fat, which can help reduce diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements.
10. Herbal Tea
Herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, can help soothe your stomach when you have diarrhea. These teas are hydrating and can provide important nutrients, such as antioxidants and flavonoids.
They can also help reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion.
When you have diarrhea, it is important to avoid foods and drinks that can irritate your stomach or make diarrhea worse. This includes high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and greasy foods.
It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids.