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Good Foods to Eat While You Have C-Diff

Jul 11, 2011 | By Demi Buckley

Clostridium difficile, or C-diff, is a spore-forming bacterial strain that can lead to serious complications of the bowels. Infections can be spread via fecal matter, but can also develop following the use of certain antibiotics that can upset the normal balance of bacterial flora in the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, fever, nausea, and abdominal pain. A specialized diet, along with appropriate medical care, can alleviate the discomfort associated with C-diff. Make sure to consult a health care professional if you suspect you or a loved one are suffering from this form of infection.

Soups and Broths

The nausea and diarrhea inherent with Clostridium difficile infections can lead to severe dehydration in the body. As such, replacing the body's fluids is a critical step for treating C-diff via simple dietary means. Vegetable, chicken, and beef soups or broths are good sources of liquid, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, if you are in the early stages of infection, you might find liquid meals preferable to solid foods, as they are easier to digest.

Sports Drinks

Commercial electrolyte replacement beverages, such as sports drinks and certain fruit juice products, are also beneficial for combating the loss of fluids associated with C-diff infections. Electrolytes impact the amount of water in the body, the blood's pH level and muscular activities. Electrolytes include minerals, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride, which are lost due to sweating, vomiting and diarrhea.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms similar to the beneficial bacteria found in the gut. These organisms serve to balance the natural concentration of bacterial flora within the gastrointestinal tract. They aid in digestion and relieve a number of common gastrointestinal issues. Good dietary sources of probiotics include fermented dairy products such as yogurt, especially those containing Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium species. Additionally, pickles, miso soup, and even dark chocolate can provide varying amounts of beneficial probiotics to your diet.

Starchy Foods

If you can tolerate heavier dishes, foods rich in starch and soluble fiber can be of benefit. These foods may include rice, pasta, oatmeal, or potatoes. Meals of this nature can help bulk the stool and, thus, serve to counteract some of the negative effects of diarrhea.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Jul 11, 2011

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