A loose stomach or frequent passage of watery stools is also referred to as diarrhea. You may develop diarrhea if you eat or drink contaminated food or water. Bowel infections, inflammatory bowel diseases and use of antibiotics may also cause diarrhea, according to MedlinePlus. Your doctor may advise you to eat certain foods while you recover from diarrhea.
Diarrhea Diet
During active diarrhea, clear liquid foods are recommended to help rest your bowel and to also provide your body with hydration, according to University Health Systems. Examples of clear liquid foods include gelatin, popsicles, plain broth and clear gelatin. Once the diarrhea subsides, you can add bland foods to your diet. Bland foods are recommended because they do not cause further irritation to the bowels. Examples of bland foods include bananas, rice, white bread and applesauce.
Foods to Avoid
When you have active diarrhea, avoid dairy products, spicy foods and caffeine because they can worsen diarrhea, according to University Health Sciences. Your doctor may also advise you to avoid high-fiber foods such as whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables. Fiber stimulates intestinal contractions, which can lead to diarrhea.
Other Foods
Your doctor may advise you to increase your intake of high-sodium and potassium-rich foods to help replace minerals that are lost in frequent diarrhea, according to MedlinePlus. High-sodium foods include canned soups and vegetables, table salt and smoked or cured meat. Examples of potassium-rich foods include oranges, prunes, bananas, molasses, apricots and dried figs.
Rehydration
Drink eight to 10 glasses of clear fluids while you are recovering from diarrhea. Drink one more glass of fluid each time you have a loose bowel movement, according to MedlinePlus. Drink clear broths, soups and sports drinks to help replace the electrolytes that are lost in diarrhea. Call the doctor if your child has decreased urination, sunken eyes and produces no tears because these are signs of severe dehydration in children.
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