Diarrhea is a condition in which stool becomes watery and bowel movements are more frequent than normal. The most common cause is a viral infection in the digestive system, according to MedlinePlus. Often called stomach flu, the infection sometimes occurs as a small epidemic in schools or families. Although most cases of diarrhea resolve themselves within a week, consuming probiotic foods or supplements may help improve symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. Consult your doctor before using probiotics to treat diarrhea.
Causes
In addition to viral infection, other situations may cause a bout of diarrhea. These include food poisoning, also called traveler's diarrhea, a result of eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with bacteria. Taking antibiotics may also cause diarrhea since the drugs may kill the "good" bacteria in the digestive tract. Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease and irritable bowl syndrome also can cause diarrhea.
Probiotics
Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain bacteria similar or identical to those that normally live in the digestive tract. These healthy bacteria help maintain normal function of the intestines. Probiotic foods containing these bacteria have been part of the human diet for centuries and recipes that include fermentation to produce bacteria are part of both Western and Eastern cuisines. The Mayo Clinic reports that consuming these foods may protect the digestive tract from harmful bacteria. They may also help treat diarrhea, especially if caused by viral infection. These foods are generally considered safe to eat.
Dairy
Beneficial bacteria are contained in many dairy products that have not been pasteurized. Yogurt with live cultures still present is a good example of a probiotic dairy product. Buttermilk and most cheeses also contain good bacteria. To preserve the bacteria, these foods should not be heated before consuming.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods often contain healthy probiotic bacteria, especially those produced from soy products. Examples include natto and miso, both used in Japanese cuisine and made from soybeans. Fermented cabbage products are also probiotic foods, including kimchi, a fermented and pickled Korean food, and sauerkraut, a common western food available both fresh and canned.
Probiotic Supplements
Probiotic supplements may be purchased at most health food stores. These powdered products contain concentrated amounts of beneficial bacteria, available as powder to sprinkle on food or as capsules. Though generally considered safe, mild side effects such as gas or bloating may occur following consumption of probiotic supplements.
