How to Cope with Diarrhea with the Help of Diet

This is a condition that is fairly widespread and is marked by the presence of loose and watery stools and frequent passing of stools. Some of the factors that may lead to diarrhea include; infections, food intolerances, drugs, and gastrointestinal diseases. Diarrhea is usually temporary but can be controlled through diet in a bid to relieve symptoms and hasten recovery.

Hydration

The single most important factor in the management of diarrhea is fluid and electrolyte intake. Diarrhea results in loss of fluids which if severe may lead to dehydration.

• Drink Plenty of Fluids: Water, clear broths, and ORS should be taken to replace the fluids and electrolyte lost during the course of the disease.
• Avoid Dehydrating Beverages: Avoid drinking caffeinated, alcoholic and sugary drinks because they are not very helpful in preventing dehydration.

For more tips it is recommended to visit a Gastroenterologist in Lahore.

BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet; consisting of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast is a conventional way of dealing with diarrhea. These foods are tasteless and do not stimulate the bowel movement process to some extent.

• Bananas: Bananas contain potassium which is useful in replenishing the lost electrolytes. They also have pectin – soluble fiber that can also aid in the absorption of water in the intestines.
• Rice: The normal white rice is light and should be taken to help increase the size of the stools.
• Applesauce: Applesauce contains pectin also it is less harsh on the digestive system. Avoid the sweetened types to reduce the sugar intake.
• Toast: The plain toast is useful in the neutralization of excess acids in the stomach and for taking in simple carbohydrates.

Additional Recommended Foods

There are many foods that one can consume to help manage diarrhea other than the BRAT diet.

• Boiled Potatoes: Similar to rice, boiled potatoes are usually tasteless and are used to increase the size of the stool. Prevent using butter, cheese or some thick creamy sauces on the dish.
• Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a very mild and is a soluble fiber that aids in reducing fluid retention in the intestines.
• Plain Crackers: Saltine crackers are flavorless and are good to consume when one has an upset stomach.
• Broth-Based Soups: Such types of soups like chicken or vegetable broth can help in meeting the fluid and electrolyte requirements without causing irritation to the G. I. tract.
• Herbal Teas: Ginger and peppermint teas are known to ease the stomach and alleviate the signs of nausea.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods should not be taken because they can worsen the condition of diarrhea. One should however, ensure that they do not engage in these activities until the symptoms have subsided.

• Dairy Products: Milk and other dairy products such as cheese are some of the hardest foods to process when one is suffering from diarrhea, especially if the person is a lactose intolerant.
• Fatty Foods: Foods that are greasy, fried, and fatty should not be taken as they can aggravate the condition of diarrhea.
• Spicy Foods: Spicy food can cause the irritation of the digestive system and boost the frequency of bowel movements.
• High-Fiber Foods: Although fiber is usually good, whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables that are taken raw can be difficult to digest especially when one is experiencing diarrhea.
• Sugary Foods and Beverages: Some foods and beverages are sweet and these can cause water to be pulled into the intestines thus aggravating the condition of diarrhea.

Conclusion

To control the symptoms of diarrhea, one should ensure that they take a lot of fluids, consume foods that are soft and not likely to cause discomfort and avoid certain foods. Some of the foods that can help include the BRAT diet and other gentle foods to help the body get better. Probiotics can also help in the improvement of intestinal health. Knowing what kinds of foods and beverages are best to avoid, you can aid your digestive system to heal and get back to normal faster and with less pain. Diarrhea should not last for more than a few days and if it does or if it is severe, one should consult a Gastroenterologist in Karachi.