Milly Gaines
Diarrhea can be an unpleasant experience, and it is often accompanied by abdominal pain and stomach flu. While it usually lasts only a few days and can be treated at home, it can lead to dehydration if it persists. To prevent dehydration, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, including water, electrolyte-enhanced water, and coconut water. In addition to hydration, eating a bland diet is recommended to alleviate diarrhea. This includes consuming soft, low-fiber foods that are easy to digest, such as bananas, plain white rice, boiled potatoes, cooked cereal, and scrambled eggs. It is also advisable to avoid fried and greasy foods, dairy products, and sugary substances. By following this bland diet and staying hydrated, individuals can effectively manage their diarrhea symptoms and promote recovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What to eat | Bland, soft, and low-fiber foods such as bananas, plain white rice, boiled potatoes, toast, cooked cereal (oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, or Farina), boiled or steamed vegetables, and lean proteins. |
| What to drink | Plenty of liquids to stay hydrated, such as water, electrolyte-enhanced water, or coconut water with vitamins or electrolytes (avoid those high in sugar). |
| Foods to avoid | Fried and greasy foods, coffee, soda, dairy products, milk, citrus fruits, spicy ingredients, foods high in fat or oil, artificial sweeteners, and too much fiber. |
| Additional remedies | OTC medications such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) and loperamide (Imodium), rest, limiting physical activity, and antibiotics (in case of bacterial infection). |
| Duration | A day or two of following the bland diet is recommended, after which other foods can be gradually added back in. |
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What You'll Learn
Bland diets are low-fibre diets
A bland diet is often recommended for those experiencing digestive issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, loss of appetite, or changes in taste. It involves consuming soft foods that are low in fibre and easy to digest, helping to relieve irritation in the digestive system.
Low-Fibre Foods
Bland diets typically include low-fibre, starchy grains. While raw fruits and vegetables tend to be high in fibre, canned or bottled fruits, and cooked vegetables that are soft, are suitable options. It is important to avoid vegetables that have been steamed or blanched.
Protein sources on a bland diet should also be soft and low in fat. Examples include skinless roasted or baked chicken, eggs, low-fat milk, yoghurt, and nut butters.
Benefits of a Low-Fibre Diet
A low-fibre diet can help reduce diarrhoea by slowing down the movement of food through the digestive tract, allowing more water to be absorbed from the food and resulting in firmer stools. This is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing diarrhoea, as it can help to rehydrate the body and restore normal bowel function.
Duration of the Diet
The duration of a bland diet depends on the individual's symptoms and their body's response. It is generally recommended to follow this diet until your appetite and bowel movements return to normal, which could take around two to three weeks. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate duration for your specific needs.
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BRAT diet
Diarrhea may be acute, starting suddenly and resolving within a few days with dietary changes, or chronic, in which case you should consult a healthcare professional.
The BRAT diet, which stands for Bananas, Rice, Apples, and Toast, was once a popular recommendation for treating diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The diet includes soft, bland, and low-fiber foods that are gentle on the stomach and may help solidify stools. Other foods that can be included are soft fruits like bananas, applesauce, avocado, pumpkin, canned fruit, and melons; steamed or boiled vegetables such as carrots, green beans, potatoes, and squash; and low-fiber starches like white bread, white rice, and saltine crackers.
However, the BRAT diet is no longer recommended for more than 24 hours due to its restrictiveness and lack of essential nutrients, which may slow down recovery. It is important to progress to a regular diet as soon as symptoms improve and to continue eating small meals every few hours.
While the BRAT diet may provide temporary relief for a day or two, it is crucial to prioritize adequate nutrition and hydration, especially when dealing with gastrointestinal issues. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
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OTC medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be used to treat mild cases of diarrhea. These include:
Loperamide (Imodium)
This medication is suitable for adults and children aged 6 and above. It is made of lactose, cornstarch, talc, and magnesium stearate. The recommended dosage is 4 milligrams (mg) after the first stool, followed by 2 mg after each loose stool, up to a maximum of 8 mg in 24 hours.
Kaopectate (bismuth subsalicylate)
Kaopectate is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and above. It is available as caplets or liquid with different flavor options and strengths. However, bismuth subsalicylate can be dangerous for younger children, and those recovering from chickenpox or flu symptoms should avoid it due to the risk of developing Reye's syndrome.
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate)
Pepto-Bismol contains the same active ingredient as Kaopectate but may have different dosage instructions. It should be avoided by those allergic to salicylate (also found in aspirin).
Probiotics
Probiotics contain "good bacteria" that are similar to those found in our digestive tracts. While they may be helpful in treating diarrhea, there is limited data on which ones are best and how much to take.
It is important to note that OTC medications should be used with caution, following the recommended dosages. If diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare provider, as prescription medications may be required.
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Bland foods to eat
A bland diet is often recommended to help reduce the symptoms of diarrhea and speed up recovery. Bland foods are gentle on the stomach, and their low-fibre content can help firm up loose stools. It is important to remember that the first priority when experiencing diarrhea is to get lots of rest and stay hydrated. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can also help keep the digestive system from becoming overworked.
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast
- Soups (clear broth, such as chicken, vegetable, or beef)
- Liquids (cranberry, apple, and grape juice, tea without caffeine, and water)
- Canned fruits (peaches, pears, and sweet potatoes)
- Crackers
- Cream of Wheat
- Eggs
- Gelatin
- Oatmeal
- Peanut butter
- Potatoes
- Sports drinks
It is important to avoid greasy, fried, spicy, or very sweet foods when experiencing diarrhea, as these can irritate the digestive system and worsen symptoms. Caffeinated beverages, carbonated drinks, and alcohol should also be avoided, as they can contribute to bloating, cramps, and digestive issues.
In addition to bland foods, there are also some remedies that can help relieve diarrhea, such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) and loperamide (Imodium). It is important to remember that persistent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so anyone experiencing prolonged symptoms should consult a doctor.
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Bland foods to avoid
A bland diet can help alleviate diarrhoea by reducing irritation in the digestive system. While there are several recommended foods to eat on a bland diet, there are also foods to avoid that can aggravate diarrhoea.
Firstly, it is important to avoid raw fruits and vegetables, as these tend to have too much fibre to be easily digested. Canned or bottled fruits and vegetables may be suitable for some people, but cooked vegetables are generally preferable, as long as they are soft. Steamed or blanched vegetables should be avoided.
Secondly, it is best to avoid fried and greasy foods, such as fries, pizza, and cheeseburgers. Added fats and oils from frying can be difficult for the sensitive digestive system to process and may exacerbate symptoms.
Thirdly, dairy products, including milk and milk-based protein drinks, should be avoided. However, some sources recommend low-fat milk and yogurt as good sources of protein on a bland diet.
Finally, it is important to limit or avoid sugars and artificial sweeteners. Sugars from fruit juices, high-sugar fruits, candy, and sweet baked goods can disrupt the sensitive bacteria in the colon, worsening diarrhoea. Some artificial sweeteners can also have a laxative effect. Instead of sugary drinks, it is recommended to stay hydrated with fluids such as water, electrolyte-enhanced water, or coconut water.
In addition to these specific foods, it is generally advised to eat bland, simple, and low-fibre foods that are easy to digest when experiencing diarrhoea. Spicy or complex foods should be avoided as they can irritate the bowels.
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Frequently asked questions
A bland diet can help to alleviate diarrhea, but there is no precise timeframe for how long it will take to work. The duration depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In most cases, diarrhea lasts only a few days and responds well to home treatments, including a bland diet.
Recommended foods for a bland diet include:
- Bananas
- Plain white rice
- Boiled potatoes
- Toast
- Soft or cooked vegetables
- Lean proteins such as skinless chicken or eggs
- Cooked cereal like oatmeal
- Soups and broths
Yes, staying hydrated is crucial when experiencing diarrhea. Recommended fluids include water, coconut water with vitamins or electrolytes, and sports drinks. It is best to avoid sugary drinks and limit dairy products as they may worsen symptoms.
Over-the-counter medications such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) and loperamide (Imodium) can help relieve occasional diarrhea. However, it is essential to consult a medical professional before using these treatments, especially if you have a fever, blood in your stool, or prolonged diarrhea.
Getting enough rest is essential when recovering from diarrhea. Limit physical activity and strenuous exercise, as they may increase the risk of dehydration. It is also recommended to avoid smoking and refrain from eating within two hours of bedtime.
