Diet During Diarrhoea: What to Eat, What to Avoid
(Illustrative image)Diarrhoea can leave your body weak, dehydrated, and nutritionally depleted. The right diet can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery. One key principle: keep it light and simple. Start with the BRAT diet—Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast. These foods are bland, low in fiber, and help firm up stools. Bananas, in particular, replenish potassium lost in diarrhoea. Also, drink plenty of fluids—water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are ideal to restore lost electrolytes.
Avoid irritants that can worsen diarrhoea. Say no to caffeine, dairy (especially if lactose-intolerant), alcohol, fried foods, and high-fiber vegetables. These can irritate the gut or increase bowel movements. Instead, opt for easy-to-digest, low-fat, and low-fiber options. Gradually reintroduce more solid foods as symptoms improve. Small, frequent meals are more tolerable than large ones.
What to Eat | What to Avoid |
---|---|
Bananas, boiled rice | Dairy (milk, cheese) |
Applesauce, toast | Fried/spicy foods |
Boiled potatoes, carrots | Caffeine, alcohol |
Plain crackers | High-fiber vegetables (e.g. cabbage) |
Clear broths, ORS | Sugary drinks, sweets |
A balanced recovery is key after the worst has passed. Once diarrhoea subsides, begin incorporating more nutrients slowly—lean proteins like chicken, scrambled eggs, or tofu, and cooked vegetables. Hydration remains essential. If diarrhoea lasts longer than 2–3 days or is accompanied by fever, blood, or severe weakness, consult a healthcare provider immediately. A well-planned diet can not only ease discomfort but also shorten recovery time and prevent complications.
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