Foods to avoid for diarrhea relief
Having diarrhea on occasion is nothing to worry about.
Diarrhea causes can range from a stomach flu to a meal or just an ingredient
you ate that didn't agree with you. Because certain foods can worsen symptoms,
in order to start feeling better you need to know what to eat when you have
diarrhea — and what not to eat. It is best to eat thicker, bland foods, including oatmeal,
bananas, plain rice, and applesauce
- Other bland foods that you’re likely to tolerate include:
- Boiled potatoes
- Toast
- Plain crackers such as saltines
- Pretzels
- Baked chicken without any skin or fat
Also, research shows that foods with probiotics — often
called “good” bacteria — may shorten the duration of a bout of diarrhea.
Probiotics have become very popular and can be found in a number of -foods
including yogurt.
- Fatty foods. These include fried foods and foods that are greasy or covered in gravy, which can make diarrhea worse.
- Milk, butter, ice cream, and cheese. Even if your diarrhea isn't caused by lactose intolerance (difficulty processing the sugar lactose, found in dairy products), stay away from these foods during a bout with diarrhea. You may be temporarily sensitive to dairy products, even if you usually have no problem with them. Probiotic-rich yogurt may be the one exception to this rule.
- Alcohol and caffeine drinks. When you have diarrhea, you want to avoid foods and beverages that cause you to lose fluids. Alcohol and caffeine can act as diuretics, meaning they are dehydrating, and should be avoided, Dr. Higgins says.
- Sorbitol and other artificial sweeteners. Some people find that artificial sweeteners have a laxative effect on their digestive system. If you have diarrhea, it’s best to avoid sugarless candy and gum, diet soft drinks, and sugar substitutes.
- Foods that cause excess gas. It’s important that you eat generous amounts of fruits and vegetables every day. However, when diarrhea strikes, you want to avoid choices that are likely to increase intestinal gas, such as cabbage, beans, broccoli, and cauliflower, until you’re feeling better.
- Foods that may be tainted. Stay away from foods that may have been mishandled, including foods that have been out of the refrigerator for too long or improperly stored. Raw meat or fish can be problematic, too. Follow the old expression, “when in doubt, throw it out,” and you may save yourself some stomach upset.
