What to Eat When You Have Diarrhea
When experiencing diarrhea, focus on eating starches (rice, potatoes, noodles, crackers, bananas), cereals (rice, wheat, oat), soup, yogurt, vegetables, and fresh fruits while strictly avoiding foods high in simple sugars and high-fat foods. 1
Foods to Eat
Recommended starches and bland foods include:
- Rice, potatoes, noodles, and crackers 1
- Bananas 1
- Plain white bread and toast 1
- Rice, wheat, and oat cereals 1
- Applesauce 1
Additional well-tolerated foods:
- Soup 1
- Yogurt 1
- Vegetables and fresh fruits 1
- Plain pasta 1
- Cereal-milk and cereal-legume combinations 1
The traditional "BRAT" diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) is reasonable as it includes starches and fruits, though it should not be used for prolonged periods as it lacks adequate energy and protein content 1.
Foods to Strictly Avoid
High simple sugar foods that worsen diarrhea through osmotic effects:
High-fat foods should be avoided because they delay gastric emptying and may not be tolerated during diarrhea 1.
Important Dietary Principles
Continue eating a regular diet rather than fasting. Older children and adults should maintain their usual varied diet during diarrhea, as continued feeding improves nutritional outcomes 1. The outdated practice of prolonged food restriction or diluted formulas can result in inadequate energy and protein intake 1.
Reduce dietary fiber intake if diarrhea is severe, as high fiber can increase loose stools, flatulence, and bloating 1.
Consider lactose reduction if symptoms worsen with dairy products, though many people tolerate yogurt well even during diarrhea 1. Lactase deficiency is common during acute diarrhea, but not everyone with lactase deficiency will have clinical lactose malabsorption 1.
Critical Hydration Management
Ensure adequate fluid intake of at least 1.5-2.5 liters per day to prevent dehydration 1. Water alone may not be sufficient; oral rehydration solutions containing appropriate electrolytes are recommended for replacing ongoing losses 1.
Replace ongoing losses: Administer approximately 10 mL/kg of oral rehydration solution for each watery or loose stool passed 1.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not follow overly restrictive self-directed exclusion diets, as these can lead to limited diet quality and nutrient deficiencies 1. The goal is a varied diet that meets energy and nutrient requirements while avoiding specific problematic foods 1.
Do not assume all diarrhea requires the same dietary approach. If diarrhea persists beyond 5 days, is bloody, or is accompanied by high fever, medical evaluation is needed as the cause may require specific treatment beyond dietary management 1, 2.