Diarrhea occurs when your intestines do not properly absorb fluids. Instead, they pass fluids through your digestive system quickly, causing frequent, watery stools. It is most commonly caused by parasites or bacterial or viral infections. Although most cases of diarrhea go away on their own without treatment, certain dietary choices may help reduce the severity and frequency of this condition. Talk to your doctor before altering your diet to address diarrhea.
Rice or Barley Water
Rice or barley water may help reduce diarrhea by restoring proper a balance of electrolytes and fluids in your digestive system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Boil 1 cup of raw rice or barley in 1 qt. of filtered water. Let it steep for at least 20 minutes before consuming.
Niacin-Rich Foods
Niacin is a B-vitamin that may help your intestinal tract absorb fluids, which may promote hydration and reduce diarrhea, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin is found in foods such as parsley, cayenne peppers, whole-wheat breads, dairy products, potatoes, eggs, carrots and broccoli.
High-Fiber Foods
Dietary fiber helps absorb water in foods and increases the bulk of your stools. This may speed recovery from diarrhea and may prevent dehydration, according to Balch. Oats, black beans, walnuts, chickpeas, lima beans, hazelnuts, lentils, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and whole-grain breads and pastas are abundant sources of dietary fiber. You can also obtain fiber from most raw fruits and vegetables.
Supplemental Foods
Ginger is more widely known as a culinary spice than as an herbal remedy, but it may help diarrhea. The chemical compounds in ginger can ease abdominal cramps and intestinal pain associated with diarrhea, according to Balch. You should check with your physician before using ginger to treat diarrhea symptoms. In some cases, it may cause a burning sensation in your stomach and can contribute to heartburn.
Bilberry, also known as wineberry, is a small, bluish-purple berry that resembles a grape in appearance. Bilberry is an astringent that may help reduce watery stools associated with diarrhea, according to Balch. Although there are no known side effects, contact your doctor before adding bilberries to your diet to combat diarrhea.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Diarrhea
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
