Diarrhea is a common condition that typically lasts for a few days but can remain for a few weeks, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain foods are recommended as helpful to eat during an episode of diarrhea, such as rice and chicken. These foods are considered easy to digest. Diarrhea is a symptom of another medical condition that needs to be diagnosed by your doctor. If you have diarrhea for more than three days, call your doctor.
About
Diarrhea is characterized by loose and frequent stools. The most common causes of diarrhea include food poisoning, medications, traveling and a viral infection. Food poisoning occurs when you eat or drink something that is contaminated with bacteria or a parasite. Certain medications can cause diarrhea as a side effect, such as antibiotics. A viral infection, commonly called stomach flu, is an infection of the intestines that causes vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.
Rice and Chicken
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that rice and baked chicken without the skin are bland foods that are usually well-tolerated during bouts of diarrhea. These foods should be eaten in small quantities until the diarrhea has completely stopped. Do not eat rice and chicken if you are experiencing excessive vomiting and diarrhea. You can also include other bland foods, such as plain rice, bananas, crackers, cooked carrots, toast and cooked potatoes.
Other Foods
You should avoid eating foods that could irritate the digestive tract, such as dairy, alcohol, caffeinated foods and beverages, spicy foods, fatty foods and high fiber foods. These foods can cause the condition to worsen. Increase the amount of liquid you drink to help cleanse the body from any infection or unwanted substances. Drink water, fruit juices, hot herbal tea and soup broth, according to MayoClinic.com. Avoid drinking pear or apple juice because they could make your condition worse. Sports drinks that are enriched with electrolytes are a good option to maintain hydration.
Complications
MedlinePlus recommends calling your doctor if your stools are black, you notice blood in your stools, you develop a fever higher than 101 degrees, you have abdominal pain, you've just started new medications or your stools are foul-smelling. Dehydration is a common concern when you have diarrhea. If you develop symptoms, such as dry skin, extreme thirst, feeling tired or lightheadedness, call your doctor. Dehydration is a serious medical condition that could lead to death if not properly treated.
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