Diarrhea affects everyone at some point, notes MayoClinic.com. It can have various causes including a viral infection, food poisoning, medications and traveling. Most cases of diarrhea go away without treatment. Knowing what foods to eat and what foods to avoid is an important aspect of managing the condition.
About
Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools that come frequently and urgently. It usually last a couple of days, but can last for weeks. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that if your diarrhea persists for more than two days, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis as it can be the sign of a serious disorder. A common concern from having diarrhea is dehydration -- the depletion of water from the body. Dehydration can lead serious complications, even death.
Food to Eat
If you are experiencing severe diarrhea, avoid eating food until the condition improves or if you doctor recommends it. Increase your liquid intake of water and other clear liquids, but avoid the use of apple or pear juices, according to MayoClinc.com. Once your diarrhea seems to improve, incorporate small, bland meals with rice, roasted potatoes, bananas, toast, crackers, baked chicken and cooked carrots. Gelatin is another good food to eat because it is easy on the stomach and helps keep you hydrated. MedlinePlus recommends the use of probiotics, commonly found in yogurt, to help maintain the healthy flora in the digestive tract.
Foods to Avoid
Foods that can aggravate or prolong diarrhea include spicy foods, fatty foods, diary products, high-fiber foods and foods high in sugar, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Avoid foods and beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol because they could further dehydrate your body.
Considerations
Avoid the use of over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications, unless directed by your doctor, according to MayoClinic.com. Diarrhea is the body's way of expelling the virus or bacteria that's affecting your digestive tract. Stopping diarrhea too early may cause other complications. If you develop signs of dehydration, such as dry skin, thirst, feeling lethargic or lightheadedness, call your doctor. You can treat dehydration by maintaining proper liquid intake. Use sports drinks that are enriched with electrolytes to replace any excess salt that's been lost.
