Diarrhea involves watery, loose stools that occur frequently -- more than three times in one day. Diarrhea is a symptom of another condition and is commonly experienced by everyone at some point in time. Most cases of diarrhea subside within a few days but could last up to two weeks. A diarrhea episode that lasts more than three days needs to be evaluated by a doctor. One of the most effective treatments for diarrhea is a change in diet, according to MedlinePlus.
Causes
Some causes of diarrhea are avoidable. For instance, if you're lactose or fructose intolerant, avoiding the consumption of products containing these sugars will likely prevent diarrhea. Other causes of acute diarrhea include food poisoning, medications and viral infections. Food poisoning is the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites or toxins that are ingested through contaminated food or beverages. Some drugs cause diarrhea as a side effect. Viral infections, such has the stomach flu, cause diarrhea for one to three days.
What to Eat
The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse states that a modified diet is one of the only treatments commonly given to people with diarrhea. If you are unable to keep any food in your stomach, stop eating for a few hours to allow your stomach to settle. Begin eating small amounts of bland foods that are easy to digest. These foods include cooked potatoes or carrots, bread, toast, crackers, bananas and rice.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods can cause irritation to the gut and can make your condition worse. Avoid dairy products, fatty foods, spicy foods and high-fiber foods. Do not ingest anything containing alcohol or caffeine, as these substances can deplete your body of water, increasing your risk of dehydration. Avoid drinking fruit juices and sodas, because they are high in sugar content and could make diarrhea worse.
Liquid Intake
Increasing your liquid intake is an essential aspect of treating diarrhea. Dehydration occurs when your body is depleted of the needed salts and water to function normally. To prevent dehydration, sip on water, herbal teas or sports drinks. Common signs and symptoms of dehydration include fatigue, dry skin, thirst, less frequent urination, lightheadedness and dark urine. If you suspect that you're dehydrated, call your doctor.
