There are several food sources that can help alleviate symptoms of diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused for a number of reasons related to nervousness, sickness, food borne illnesses, viruses and bacterias. Understanding the appropriate type of fiber to use for diarrhea is critical as the wrong type of fiber can make diarrhea worse. Foods that contain soluble fiber are encouraged since this fiber absorbs water. Insoluble fiber is discouraged for diarrhea, as explained by RD411.com.
Bananas
Bananas contain a soluble fiber known as pectin. Soluble fiber acts as a sponge to soak up water in the digestive tract, which is beneficial for someone experiencing diarrhea. A study published in the 1993 "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology," led by researcher D. Bunjic, explains how bananas affected diarrhea in rats. The benefit of bananas for diarrhea is due to the ability of pectin to heal and protect the lining of the stomach. When the stomach lining is healed, it is able to absorb nutrients that diminish diarrhea and replete lost nutrients.
White Rice and Brown Rice
Rice is another fiber that can be used for diarrhea. A study published in the 1995 "Lancet" led by researcher R.J. MacLeod, explains that when rice is added to rehydrating solutions for diarrhea, stool output decreased in guinea pigs. The researchers conclude rice may have the ability to prevent gastrointestinal secretions. A study in the 2007 "Practical Gastroenterology" led by Deborah Duro reports rice assists with diarrhea by allowing for optimal rehydration in people with severe diarrhea.
Fiber Supplement
Fiber supplements are sources of dietary fiber for diarrhea and should be used in conjunction with dietary sources. Various types of fiber supplements are available with varying fiber amounts. The success of fiber supplements varies from person to person. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment website explains Citrucel contains the fiber methylcellulose, FiberChoice contains inulin, Benefiber contains guar gum, Fibercon contains polycarbopil and Metamucil and Konsyl contain psyllium. These fiber supplements are good to try for diarrhea since they are made of soluble fiber.
References
- RD411.com: Diarrhea
- "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology"; Green Banana Protection of Gastric Mucosa Against Experimentally Induced Injuries in Rats. A Multicomponent Mechanism?; Dunjic, et al.; 1993
- "Lancet"; Inhibition of Intestinal Secretion by Rice; Duro, et al.; 2007
- "Practical Gastroenterology"; The BRAT Diet for Acute Diarrhea in Children: Should It Be Used?; Duro, et al.; 2007
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome Treatment
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