Diarrhea is a very common illness. In fact, it is the second most reported illness in the U.S., according to the American College of Gastroenterology. There are several types of diarrhea, and treatment depends on the specific type. Increasing the fiber in your diet may be recommended. But, in some cases, a high-fiber diet can exacerbate your symptoms, leading to more discomfort.
Fiber
Fiber is a non-digestible component found in plant-based foods that helps to promote regular bowel movements. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber partially dissolves in water and forms a gel, which slows your digestion. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water, adds bulk to your stool and has a natural laxative effect. Both types of fiber are important for overall health. In general, you should consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber every day.
Functional Diarrhea
Functional diarrhea refers to frequent loose or watery stools with no known cause. This type of diarrhea is chronic, lasting from months to years and is not associated with abdominal pain. People with functional diarrhea can have periods of normal bowel movements or even constipation. Treatment for functional diarrhea often includes a high-fiber diet, which adds bulk to your stool and slows digestion time. However, if certain high-fiber food items cause discomfort, you should avoid them.
High-Fiber Diet for Diarrhea
A high-fiber diet can be beneficial in the treatment of functional diarrhea by bulking your stool and slowing your digestion. A high-fiber diet is characterized by at least 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day. You should consume both soluble and insoluble sources of fiber. Soluble fiber includes oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fiber can be found in wheat bran, vegetables and whole grains.
Acute Diarrhea
Many times, diarrhea is an acute illness and develops due to bacterial or viral infections, parasites, intestinal diseases, food intolerance or medications. A low-fiber diet, characterized by 10 grams of fiber or less, may be easier to digest, because it does not stimulate your bowel. Foods high in insoluble fiber add bulk and weight to your stool, however in acute diarrhea, this increased weight and bulk stimulates bowel contraction and further aggravates diarrhea-related symptoms.
Low-Fiber Diet for Acute Diarrhea
In a low-fiber diet, the small amount of fiber you do eat should be of the soluble form, which absorbs fluid and helps to relieve diarrhea-related symptoms. Good sources of soluble fiber include applesauce, bananas, oranges, potatoes, white rice, oatmeal and cream of wheat cereal. Avoiding foods high in insoluble fiber such as raw or dried fruits, raw or cruciferous vegetables, corn, peas, whole-wheat breads, pastas and cereals, nuts and beans will reduce symptoms associated with diarrhea.
References
- The American College of Gastroenterology: Functional Bowel Disorders
- Oncolink: Low Fiber Diet for Diarrhea; Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, LD
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Fiber
- Harvard School of Public Health: Fiber: Start Roughin It!
- The Ohio State University Medical Center: High Fiber Diet
- National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse: Diarrhea
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