Diarrhea, characterized by frequent bouts of watery, loose stools, may occur as a consequence of medication use, inflammatory bowel disease or parasite infection. Dietary changes are helpful for treating and recovering from diarrhea. When suffering from diarrhea, knowing the foods to avoid and the combination of foods to eat may make for a smoother recovery.
Clear Liquids
As soon as diarrhea begins, increase your intake of clear liquids. Clear fluids include foods and beverages such as water, clear soft drinks, tea, gelatin and broth. The liquids will help prevent dehydration, which may occur because of the increased fluid loss in diarrhea. Sticking with a clear liquid diet for no longer than a couple of days will also allow the intestines to rest and recover from the illness or irritation. Electrolyte replacement drinks may also help prevent dehydration related to diarrhea and replace some of the electrolytes, such as sodium, lost during the illness.
BRAT Diet
When recovering from diarrhea, following a BRAT diet may help. BRAT is an acronym that stands for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Eating primarily these foods may decrease the frequency and intensity of diarrhea. The foods in the BRAT diet help bind the stool and cause harder stool to form. These foods are also low stress for the intestines. In addition to helping bulk up the stool, bananas may help replace some of the potassium lost during bouts of diarrhea.
Low-Fiber Diet
Once diarrhea begins to subside, you may start a low-fiber diet. Restricting your diet to low-fiber foods may help the digestive system fully recover before you add fibrous foods back into your diet. Low-fiber foods include plain pasta, enriched white bread, eggs and cooked vegetables. Soluble fiber foods such as rice and oatmeal will also help absorb the excess amount of fluid in the intestines.
Foods to Avoid
With diarrhea, avoiding certain foods may be as important as eating the right ones. Avoid foods that may increase the workload for the intestines -- beans and high-fiber foods such as whole grain breads. It is also helpful to avoid fatty foods, highly seasoned foods and dairy products.
