The BRAT diet is a widely accepted diet used to counteract diarrhea and the general symptoms of an upset stomach. If you have diarrhea for more than three consecutive days, you need to see your doctor. Before treating diarrhea by modifying your diet, you should talk with your primary healthcare professional. Diarrhea is a result of a condition and is not a condition itself. Diarrhea is a symptom that can occasionally occur from eating too much fat, foods that are greasy or foods containing a lot of spices.
The BRAT Diet
The BRAT diet contains foods that will help bind waste in your large intestine to promote normal stools, and it will help provide your body with essential nutrients that you may have lost during a bout of diarrhea. The BRAT diet is considered safe for children and adults. The word BRAT is an acronym that stands for banana, rice, applesauce and toast. These foods are intended to be consumed in their natural state without any added spices or condiments. The BRAT diet should only be implemented while under a doctor's care.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a food that can help restore your normal bowel function. Yogurt contains live and active cultures that are also found in your colon. These healthy bacteria, or probiotics, help to maintain regularity and can help fight against intestinal infections. The probiotics found in yogurt can also trigger the production of disease-fighting white blood cells. Only eat yogurt that is plain and low in fat. Yogurt that is high in fat and contains a lot of sugar can make your diarrhea worse.
Adding More Foods
Once your diarrhea begins to subside, you can add other bland foods that will also promote bulk-forming stools. Foods that are good to eat to counteract diarrhea aside from the foods in the BRAT diet include boiled potatoes, cooked carrots, fish, skinless chicken and crackers. Each food needs to be added slowly, in small portions and without any added condiments, such as butter, jelly or dressings. Maintain a diet that is low in fat, fiber, grease and spices.
What to Avoid
Some foods need to be avoided altogether while you have diarrhea. Do not consume any dairy products, alcohol or caffeinated beverages while you have diarrhea. These foods and beverages can promote dehydration and further complicate your condition.
