What Foods to Eat and Avoid When you Have Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea, characterised by loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than usual, is a common gastrointestinal ailment affecting people of all ages worldwide. It can be acute, lasting a few days, or chronic, persisting for weeks or longer. Dealing with diarrhoea can be uncomfortable and disruptive to your daily life. Finding relief is a top priority, whether a stomach bug, food poisoning, or a digestive disorder causes it. While staying hydrated is crucial, knowing what foods to eat and what to avoid can play a significant role in soothing your gut and promoting faster recovery. In this comprehensive guide, let's understand the best foods to eat when you have diarrhoea, the foods to avoid, effective treatments and remedies, when to consult a doctor, and how to get your healthy self.

What Foods to Eat When You Have Diarrhoea?

When you have diarrhoea, consuming foods that are gentle on your digestive system and providing the necessary nutrients your body needs is essential. Opting for a bland diet that includes digestible foods can help relieve symptoms and promote healing. Here are some of the best foods to eat when you have diarrhoea:

• Bananas: Rich in potassium, bananas help replenish electrolytes lost during bouts of diarrhoea. They are also gentle on the stomach and provide soluble fibre to help regulate bowel movements.
• White Rice: Boiled white rice is a staple in the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast), is easy to digest and provides energy. 
• Applesauce: Applesauce is gentle on the digestive system and provides essential nutrients like vitamins and fibre. 
• Toast or White Bread: Plain white bread can help absorb excess fluid in the digestive tract and provide carbohydrates for energy.
• Yoghurt: Look for plain, unsweetened yoghurt with live active cultures. These probiotics can help restore the balance of good gut bacteria, improving digestion and reducing diarrhoea.
• Boiled Potatoes: Potatoes are a great energy source to help firm loose stools. Boiling them makes them easier to digest and provides a comforting meal option.
• Boiled Vegetables: Steamed or boiled vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, and spinach are gentle on the stomach and provide essential vitamins and minerals. 
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Clear broth soups can keep you well-hydrated and provide essential nutrients.
• Lean Protein: Incorporating lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish into your meals can help rebuild and repair tissues. Opt for grilled, baked, or boiled preparations instead of fried or greasy.
• Oatmeal: Plain oatmeal, cooked with water or low-fat milk, is a soothing and nutritious option. It provides soluble fibre and can help bind stools, reducing the frequency of bowel movements.
• Remember to eat small, frequent meals rather than large portions to avoid overwhelming your digestive system. Slowly reintroduce other foods as your symptoms improve.

What Foods to Avoid When You Have Diarrhoea?

While certain foods can support your recovery, others can exacerbate your symptoms and prolong the duration of diarrhoea. It's essential to avoid these foods until your gut has healed:

• Spicy and Greasy Foods: Spices and greasy foods can irritate the digestive system lining, leading to increased inflammation and diarrhoea. Avoid spicy dishes, fried foods, and fatty meats. 
• Raw Fruits and Vegetables: Raw fruits and vegetables, particularly those with tough skins or seeds, can be challenging to digest and may worsen diarrhoea symptoms.
• High-Fibre Foods: While fibre is generally beneficial for bowel regularity, it can worsen diarrhoea. Avoid whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds until your symptoms subside.
• Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeinated beverages and alcohol can trigger the digestive system and increase bowel movements. Avoid coffee, tea, soda, alcoholic beverages, and energy drinks.
• Dairy Products: Lactose intolerance is common during episodes of diarrhoea, as the digestive system may temporarily lose the ability to break down lactose. Avoid milk, butter, cheese, ice cream, custard, and other dairy products.
• Sweetened Beverages: Sugary drinks, including fruit juices and sodas, can worsen diarrhoea by drawing more water into the intestines. Stick to water, herbal tea, and clear broths to stay hydrated.
• Avoiding these foods can help reduce inflammation, prevent further irritation, and support your body's healing process.

Treatments and Remedies

You can try the following several treatments and remedies to alleviate the discomfort of diarrhoea:

• Fluid Replacement: Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so drinking plenty of fluids is crucial. Opt for water, clear broths, electrolyte solutions, and herbal teas to refill lost fluids and electrolytes.
• Probiotics: Probiotic supplements or foods with live active cultures can help replenish the balance of good bacteria in your gut. 
• BRAT Diet: The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) consists of bland, low-fibre foods that help firm up stools and alleviate diarrhoea.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Anti-diarrhoeal medications can temporarily relieve diarrhoea by slowing bowel movements. However, they should only be used under the guidance of a doctor.
• Herbal Remedies: Some herbal remedies may help soothe your digestive system. Peppermint, chamomile, and ginger teas have calming properties and can alleviate symptoms of diarrhoea.
• Rest: Stress can worsen digestive symptoms, so it's essential to prioritize adequate rest and avoid strenuous activities. Engage in activities that help you unwind, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga. 
• Treatment for Underlying Causes: If diarrhoea is caused by an underlying condition such as bacterial or parasitic infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or medication side effects, treatment may involve addressing the underlying cause with specific medications prescribed by a doctor.
• Maintaining Hygiene: Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly with water and soap after using the bathroom and before eating, can help prevent the spread of infectious diarrhoea.

When to Consult a Doctor

While most cases of diarrhoea resolve on their own within a few days, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. Contact your doctor if:

• Worsening of Symptoms: If you experience severe abdominal pain, high fever, bloody stools, or dehydration symptoms like dizziness and extreme thirst, seek medical attention immediately.
• Prolonged Diarrhoea: If your diarrhoea persists for over a few days or keeps recurring, it's essential to consult a doctor to diagnose the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
• Underlying Health diseases: If you have pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or a weakened immune system, it's best to seek medical advice to manage your diarrhoea effectively.
• Medication Interactions: If you are taking medications that may interact with anti-diarrhoeal treatments or have concerns about potential side effects, consult your doctor for guidance.
• Your doctor can assess your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and provide personalized advice for managing your diarrhoea.

Conclusion

Dealing with diarrhoea can be challenging, but making informed dietary choices and following appropriate treatments can effectively soothe your gut and promote a faster recovery. Remember to consume foods that are gentle on your digestive system, avoid foods that worsen symptoms, and seek medical attention when necessary. By nourishing your body with the right foods and care, you'll soon return to optimal health.