Clostridium difficile, also referred to as C. diff, is a bacterium that produces toxins that attack the large intestine. The infection generally occurs after prolonged antibiotic use, which can cause a disruption in healthy bacteria in the colon. Symptoms of C. diff include diarrhea, decreased appetite and fever. The bacteria can also cause serious intestinal problems, such as colitis. Possible complications from a C. diff infection include dehydration, kidney failure and even death, if not treated immediately. Diet is important when treating a C. diff infection because eating proper foods and avoiding irritating foods helps assist with recovery.
Fluids
A common complication associated with severe diarrhea or a fever is dehydration because of excessive fluid loss. Dehydration causes symptoms such as decreased urine output, fatigue, dizziness and poor skin elasticity. A decrease in blood pressure may also occur with dehydration. Preventing dehydration is essential when suffering from a C. diff infection. Keeping hydrated includes drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids, such as sports drinks, which also contain vital electrolyte replacements when suffering from excessive fluid loss. Additional ways to increase fluids includes eating ice pops, gelatin and drinking broth. Sticking with clear liquids, such as fruit juices and tea is best for treating diarrhea.
BRAT Diet
Following a BRAT diet may help improve the symptoms associated with diarrhea. BRAT is an acronym for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. Sticking with these foods may help bind stool in the intestines and slow diarrhea. The foods on this diet are also bland and do not typically cause further discomfort or increased motility in the intestines. Bananas will also help replace excessive amounts of potassium lost during high fevers and diarrhea. Additional foods to eat while following a BRAT diet include noodles, saltine crackers, potatoes and oatmeal.
Foods to Avoid
When suffering from C. diff, a person should avoid eating foods that may worsen the diarrhea. Foods that may cause discomfort when suffering from diarrhea include rich foods such as desserts, greasy foods, foods high in bran and raw vegetables and fruits. In addition to avoiding these foods, people should avoid certain beverages when suffering from diarrhea caused by C. diff. Milk products may worsen diarrhea. Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages may can also worsen diarrhea and increase the risk of dehydration. Drinks such as tomato juice and orange juice may cause irritation to the intestines.
How to Eat
Eating warm foods is better than eating hot or extremely cold foods for people with C. diff infections. Eating and drinking extreme temperatures may cause increased discomfort intestines already in distress. Increasing the frequency of meals and decreasing intake at each meal may help relieve intestinal distress. Eating six smaller meals instead of three large meals can help decrease the irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.
References
- Journal of the American Medical Association; Clostridiium Difficile Colitis; Janet M. Torpy, MD; March 2009
- FamilyDoctor.org; Clostridium Difficile Infection; February 2011
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Frequently Asked Questions about Clostridium Difficile
- MayoClinic.com; C. Difficile; November 2010
- MedlinePlus; Bananas and Upset Stomach; Neil K. Kaneshrio, MD; August 2009
- American Cancer Society; Diarrhea; March 2011
